The 2017 Festival was named winner of the Festivals and Events category at a gala celebration held at the International Convention Centre in Sydney on Thursday, November 16.

The annual awards program celebrates and recognises groups that demonstrate excellence in tourism, services and experiences across New South Wales.

Festival Director Cathy Treasure said it was a testament to the Festival’s ongoing success and recognition for its contribution to tourism in NSW for the past 25 years.  

"This is the second year in a row that the Parkes Elvis Festival has taken out the Gold Award at this event, which reinforces the fantastic work our dedicated volunteers, supporters and staff contribute to what makes the Festival a success year after year."

"It's exciting for all those involved, especially as we prepare to deliver the 2018 Festival in just six weeks’ time which will celebrate 50 years since the ’68 Comeback Special," Ms Treasure said.  

Parkes Elvis Festival was one of eight finalists in the Festivals and Events category, taking home the title ahead of the Orange F.O.O.D Week, Canowindra Balloon Challenge, Australian Celtic Festival, Byron Writers Festival, Deni Ute Muster, Eat the Street and Splendour in the Grass.

Parkes Shire Mayor, Councillor Ken Keith OAM said this is a fantastic achievement for a community generated event.

"Now attracting over 25,000 visitors annually from around the globe over five days, the Parkes Elvis Festival has cemented its status as a premier event on the world stage injecting over $13M into the regional economy."

Parkes Elvis Festival will now progress to the national level at the Australian Tourism Awards to be held in 2018, where it will be judged against the best of the best throughout the country.  

Ms Treasure said they are getting excited as they count down to next year’s festival, which will celebrate 50 years since Elvis’ ‘68 Comeback Special with a very dynamic team with a mixture of skills.