Pipped by Temora Aviation Museum, the state recognised achievement holds considerable significance given the first ute was only installed at the attraction, between Ootha and Condobolin, sixteen months ago.

The NSW Tourism Awards is the largest and most prestigious event on the industry’s calendar presented by the Tourism Industry Council NSW and sponsored by the NSW Government.

With almost 150 finalists across 30 categories, the night highlighted the world-class tourism products and experiences on offer in NSW.

“These awards reinforce the quality, vitality and diversity of the NSW tourism industry and recognise those businesses that have been the benchmark for best practice across the State,” Minister for Tourism, Jodi McKay said.

Independent State MP, Dawn Fardell, has also expressed her congratulations to the tourist operators within the region which also included, 2009 CountryLink Pares Elvis Festival and Canowindra’s the Old Vic Inn Historic Guesthouse which also won silver in their designated categories.

In the Forbes Shire, Utes in the Paddock is west of the town at Oota on the Condobolin Road. Once there turn left on the Mulgutherie – Ootha road and travel for 3 kms.