WATCH the videos that put Dwellingup and Pinjarra in the running for top tourism awards

Both Shire of Murray towns have been announced as finalists in the 2021 Top Tourism Town Awards, after much effort was put into improving their tourism offering during the COVID border closures.

The historic Pinjarra is up against 16 other towns including Exmouth, Busselton and Kalbarri in the top town category.

Mr Unsworth said Pinjarra had used the interstate tourism downturn of the past year to become a stronger destination.

"Pinjarra and its surrounding areas are a melting pot of culture, great cafes, quirky shopfronts and lively events, all flowing with Pinjarra's authentic historic and country charm," Mr Unsworth said.

"Pinjarra really is a standout destination and its elements of nature, a welcoming community and the cultural experiences of the Murray region brings real connection with our visitors.

"The essence of this thriving destination reflects the heritage, the creative communities, the natural environment and the Murray River as the wild heart of the region."

Over the last 12 months especially, Dwellingup has also relentlessly adapted and developed its tourism offerings.

Mr Unsworth said the newly opened $2.59 million Dwellingup Trails and Visitor Centre, along with the showcase of an inspiring tourism brand and immersive messaging of the adventurous destination, had positioned it centre stage amongst the tourism industry over the last year.

"Dwellingup is a place that perfectly characterises the adventure, relaxation, heritage and charm of country life," said Mr Unsworth.

"It's been amazing to see growing numbers of visitors experiencing Dwellingup and enjoying its array of offerings. You can feel the buzz among the region."

"It is a destination of all these things and more, equally relaxing and wild, to create a region rugged, remote and ready to be explored.

Dwellingup is up against other small towns including Coral Bay, Denham and Kalgoorlie.

Online voting is now open until the 8th April 2021. Vote for Dwellingup or Pinjarra and you could also win a $5,000 WA Travel Voucher. Voting is quick and easy, simply visit toptourismtown.com.au to vote now.

The winning destinations of each state will also go into the national competition to win title of Australia's Top Tourism Town and Small Tourism Town. This is the first time a nation-wide competition has followed the state's awards.

The WA winners will be announced at the 2021 Perth Airport WA Regional Tourism Conference Dinner in Geraldton on Tuesday, May 4, 2021.