We Aussies are blessed with an incredible country full of diverse landscapes, friendly people, and unique experiences. And while we may complain about the cost of living or the weather from time to time, there's no denying that we're pretty lucky to call this place home.

But with so much to see and do, it can be hard to know where to start – especially if you're only visiting for a short time.

Luckily, travel website Wotif has announced the winners of its fifth annual Uniquely Aussie Awards, where some of the country's best local gems were voted on by travellers and locals alike.

The awards are designed to call attention to local treasures – some of which are well-known only to a few – so that others can experience some of the best businesses, places, meals, and views that Australia has on offer.

The secret to Shhmoakesys's success is an eight-hour-long smoking job on the beef fillings. Credit: Wotif.

Best Pie: Shhmoakesys Gourmet Pies, Kincumber, NSW

There are a lot of delicious pies in Australia—this is no secret—but Shhmoakesys in Kimcumber, NSW, has won praise for its smoked pork filling, which is cooked for more than eight hours. While the delicate melt-in-your-mouth crust certainly helps, it's the enormous servings that have made them so popular.

Chris Oakes, founder and proprietor of Shhmoakesys, has let slip that the puff pastry and the fact that they don't 'oversauce' the interior are the keys to the restaurant's pies' success, allowing customers to savour the smoky meat to its fullest.

When staying at Shangri-La Sydney, guests will feel as though they are 'floating above' the 'best view in the world'. Credit: Wotif.

Best Hotel View: Shangri-La Sydney, Sydney, NSW

The Shangri-La Sydney is a luxurious haven that boasts the largest windows of any harbourfront hotel in the city. From here, guests may enjoy unrivalled panoramic views of Sydney Harbour.

The rooms that overlook the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House will undoubtedly give visitors the impression that they are floating above the best scenery in the entire city!

Nothing compares to the neenish tarts from Mittagong's Gumnut Patisserie, which combine real strawberry jam, fresh cream, and shortbread crust. Credit: Wotif.

Best Neenish Tart: Gumnut Patisserie, Mittagong, NSW

This delicious treat is a must-have for anyone with a sweet tooth! The perfect neenish tart requires the perfect combination of icing, filling and pastry base - all of which you'll find at Gumnut Patisserie in Mittagong.

But what makes theirs so special? While a traditional neenish pie usually has a two-colour split (dark chocolate or raspberry), Head pastry chef Tracy Nicki said Gumnut Patisserie's version is all house-made and features a classical thin pastry case with raspberry jam & buttercream made from real butter. Yum!

Everyone in Australia should make a point of visiting Rottnest at least once in their lives. Credit: Wotif/Rottnest Island Authority.

Best Island: Rottnest Island, WA

Rottnest Island is well deserving of its title as Best Island!

This iconic location is home to quokkas (also called the happiest animal in the world!), sandy beaches galore surrounded by aquamarine waters, and amazing beach cottage accommodation – making it a very uniquely Australian island getaway that should definitely be on everyone's bucket list. What more could a humble island-obsessed traveller want, eh?

Planet 72 is home to Australia's most extensive selection of scooped ice cream and gelato flavours. Credit: Instagram.

Best Ice Creamery: Planet 72, Hervey Bay, QLD

Planet 72 scoops its way into first place as Australia's Best Ice Creamery!

This family-owned business is home to the largest display of scooped ice cream and gelato in the country and is commended for its 'friendly' and 'down to earth' service. With 72 (yes, 72!) flavours to choose from, there's sure to be something for everyone.

Owner and operator Dallas Harch said it was no easy feat bringing his dream of an ice creamery with dozens of varieties to life, as many manufacturers thought it was 'unviable'.

The festival is lauded for being able to cater to a diverse audience thanks to the participation of artists from both local and foreign communities. Credit: Adelaide Fringe.

Best Festival: Adelaide Fringe, Adelaide, SA

The Fringe World Festival in Western Australia comes out on top as the Best Arts Festival! This massive event stretches from Whyalla all the way across the state to Naracoorte and runs for a whole month from 17 February - 19 March.

The festival features a huge range of eclectic and vibrant events, including cabaret, theatre, comedy, circus, music and visual arts – plus so much more. With both local and international talent on offer, there really is something for everyone!

And at over 500,000 attendees, it's also the Southern Hemisphere's largest open-access arts festival.

Tip

On the Wotif website, you can see a list of all the finalists in each category.

So there you have it, folks! These are just some of the amazing things Australia has to offer. Why not put a few of them on your bucket list and start planning your next adventure?

What do you think of these travel suggestions from Wotif? Are there any other hidden gems or local treasures that you can recommend to other travellers? Let us know in the comments!

 

[Ricci]

Rottnest Island, my all-time favourite getaway with a range of places to stay. Time slows down to an almost stop and you come away fully re-charged.

 

[JayKay]

I've not been further west in Australia than just across the Victorian border into SA.
Perhaps I could start a bucket list.....

 

[Kimrus]

Ahmmm someone got the states wrong about the fringe festival. Not Western Australia but. South Australia.

 

[Ricci]

Ahmmm someone got the states wrong about the fringe festival. Not Western Australia but. South Australia.

oops!!

 

[Ezzy]

Rottnest Island, my all-time favourite getaway with a range of places to stay. Time slows down to an almost stop and you come away fully re-charged.

Hire a push bike & tour the island or jump on the tour bus. One interesting place to visit has always been the island's bakery. I think the most expensive part is the return Ferry trip to the island. Many people take selfies with our friendly Quokkas. Great day out or spend a few days there.