This year's inaugural NSW Top Tour Guide Awards, hosted on Sydney Harbour during Vivid Sydney, honoured the state’s most inspiring guides—those who turn great trips into unforgettable experiences. From inner-city laneways to remote natural wonders, these individuals represent the heart and soul of our tourism offering. These guides are the storytellers, connectors and cultural custodians who bring New South Wales to life for visitors.
The awards are a flagship initiative of the NSW Tourism Association’s commitment to raising industry standards and supporting professional development. The program, led by the NSW Tourism Association, is helping to elevate the guiding profession and strengthen the visitor experience across the state. The awards event was delivered in partnership with Tour Guides Australia, Outdoors NSW & ACT, and Journey Beyond Cruise Sydney.
It’s not just about celebrating excellence - it’s about backing the passionate people who make tourism in New South Wales thrive.
Huge congratulations to our winners and finalists!
NSW's Top Tour Guides
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Justin Steele - Local Sauce Tours
Justin Steele is the founder and lead guide of Local Sauce Tours, Sydney’s “funnest" tour company.
A self-described “recovering lawyer”, Justin escaped the corporate world to pursue his passion for storytelling and hospitality, launching his business in 2018.
With a deep knowledge of Sydney’s history, fo
Justin Steele - Local Sauce Tours
Justin Steele is the founder and lead guide of Local Sauce Tours, Sydney’s “funnest" tour company.
A self-described “recovering lawyer”, Justin escaped the corporate world to pursue his passion for storytelling and hospitality, launching his business in 2018.
With a deep knowledge of Sydney’s history, food, nightlife, and street art, Justin delivers immersive and engaging experiences for locals and visitors alike, blending fun, facts, and connection to showcase the best of the city.
SILVER
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Nathan Lygon - Eden Local Aboriginal Land Council
Nathan Lygon is a proud Yuin, Dharawal, and Wolgalu man, lead guide of the Bundian Way tours, and a respected cultural knowledge holder. His tours immerse visitors in culture, sharing stories of the deep connections between people and place. He mentors new guides through Eden LALC’s Country
Nathan Lygon - Eden Local Aboriginal Land Council
Nathan Lygon is a proud Yuin, Dharawal, and Wolgalu man, lead guide of the Bundian Way tours, and a respected cultural knowledge holder. His tours immerse visitors in culture, sharing stories of the deep connections between people and place. He mentors new guides through Eden LALC’s Country Custodian program, ensuring knowledge is passed down and economic opportunities for mob grow. With a deep spiritual connection to Country, Nathan doesn’t just guide tours—he brings the world’s oldest living culture to life.
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Amanda Fry - Experience Nature
Amanda Fry is a visionary leader in tourism, pioneering unique experiences in the Southern Highlands and Shoalhaven. Amanda's natural passion, creativity, product development and collaborative efforts have elevated regional tourism in her area, delivering luxury visitor experiences. Her local knowledge in cu
Amanda Fry - Experience Nature
Amanda Fry is a visionary leader in tourism, pioneering unique experiences in the Southern Highlands and Shoalhaven. Amanda's natural passion, creativity, product development and collaborative efforts have elevated regional tourism in her area, delivering luxury visitor experiences. Her local knowledge in culture, history, agritourism coupled with her proven experience and sustainability focus shines through. Widely respected for her expertise and guiding abilities, Amanda continues to drive impactful, high-quality experiences that enhance her region.
Award Partners
