The awards were hosted by the current national winner, Smithton, on Friday. 

Judge Lesley Gardner said Oatlands was a town that “modestly and confidently” ticked along.

“Specifically, the recent completion of the stunning restoration of the Oatlands Commissariat on High Street further enhances the important heritage values of the town,” Ms Gardener said.

“There are also many health and recreation opportunities offered on the shores of wonderful Lake Dulverton, including walking, fishing and bird spotting.”

Ms Gardner also highlighted the contribution that the Midlands Multi-Purpose Health Centre made to the community, and recognised the contribution that Brian and Lyn Fish made to the collecting, preserving and demonstrating of heritage skills.

George Town received the top award for towns with a population above 40001. 

Other winners included the Macquarie Harbour Shoreline Clean-up project, which had been delivered with help from Cradle Coast natural resource management for the past two years. 

Burnie Primary School was named the most sustainable school on the Coast.

The Community Citizen of the Year Award was presented to Daniell Hall for her work as the waste education office at the Glenorchy City Council. 

The youth award was presented to the Bicheno-based Kids Ocean Network.

Historically, the Tidy Town awards have assessed towns based on litter prevention and waste management strategies, however, the awards have evolved to include seven criteria across numerous categories.

The categories include natural environment conservation and sustainability, heritage and culture, community health and activities for youth. 

“So much is achieved through enthusiasm, passion, persistence, partnership and in most cases volunteer hours,” Ms Gardener said.

“My overall feeling about this year’s awards is that community spirit and determinedness is flourishing.”