What’s happening?
Former Toowoomba resident Alex Scully has helped lead The Hinterland Collection to national recognition following a standout night at the Australian Wedding Awards in 2025.
At the national ceremony, Summergrove Estate was named Australia’s Number 1 Unique Wedding Venue.
Sister venue Elysian Hills was awarded Australia’s Number 1 Garden Wedding Venue.
Summergrove Estate’s chapel also received a Highly Commended, second place result in the Wedding Ceremony Locations category.
The group achieved further national recognition with a Top 3 placing for Best Wedding Coordinators and was awarded Australia’s Number 1 Strategic Business Vision Award.
Why it matters
The national awards reinforce The Hinterland Collection’s standing as one of Australia’s most respected and consistently high-performing hospitality and wedding operators.
Recognition at a national level highlights the strength of regional venues competing against operators from across the country.
Local impact
Now based in the Tweed Coast hinterland, Scully plays a key role as Group Venue Manager.
He has helped shape The Hinterland Collection into an emerging tourism group designed to encourage visitors to experience more of the Tweed and stay longer in the region.
This approach is built around a portfolio of nationally awarded venues and guest experiences.
“These awards reflect the passion and dedication of our entire team,” Scully said.
“To be recognised on a national stage is incredibly rewarding, particularly knowing it’s supported by the couples and communities we serve.”
By the numbers
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Two national number one awards were secured, with Summergrove Estate and Elysian Hills each topping their respective categories.
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Three national category placings were achieved across venue, ceremony location, and wedding coordination awards.
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More than 30 regions are assessed through the Australian Wedding Awards, placing the wins among the most competitive in the industry.
Zoom in
The Strategic Business Vision Award recognises long-term planning and leadership across hospitality operations.
It reflects the group’s focus on building a connected portfolio rather than standalone venues.
Zoom out
The Australian Wedding Awards are regarded as one of the country’s most comprehensive wedding industry awards.
They recognise excellence across more than 30 regions nationwide.
What to look for next?
The Hinterland Collection continues to position itself as a destination-led tourism group centred on the Tweed Coast hinterland.