DRTCC'S Manager Linda Christof and her dedicated crew of workers and volunteers are celebrating after being named Australian Performing Arts Centre of the Year, at the 2019 Drover Awards.

The awards, held at the Caloundra Events Centre on Thursday night recognised the achievements of organisations that consistently provide outstanding performance in production, marketing and management services, as well as demonstrating exceptional success in audience development and community engagement.

Ms Christof said the award proves the Dubbo region is one of regional NSW's premier destinations for the arts.

I am so excited about the award," she said.

"The Dubbo region is extremely proud that the major touring companies who take their productions around the nation regard DRTCC as the leading performing arts venue in Australia.

"This award recognises the dedication and passion of the DRTCC team, and not only the core team but the extended team of bar casuals, technical casuals and our volunteer ushers.

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"It is a concerted team effort where everyone has input on how to continually improve the experience of seeing a live performance."

Ms Christof said the award is a feather in the Dubbo Regional Council's cap.

"The comment that was made when we were given the award that is was unanimous across the producers that what stood out was the respect our team have for touring cast and crew and the entire touring fraternity," she said.

"They feel welcome when they come to our region, and they want to come back, and they spread the word to other producers and touring companies that Dubbo is the place to perform.

"This award is an amazing achievement for the team because we were up against the major metro arts centres like the Sydney Opera House and Brisbane's Powerhouse."

The Mayor of the Dubbo Region, Ben Shields said the Drover Award is a huge achievement for council staff and everyone in the region.

"The DRTCC caters for all by having a diverse program to ensure people from all walks of life are attracted to the region," Cr Shields said.

"Over 34 per cent of ticket purchasers come from outside the local government area, so the reach is certainly broad."

The DRTCC was one of four finalists competing for the Australian Performing Arts Centre of the Year alongside New South Wales' Merrigong Theatre Company, Wyong's The Art House, and Queens Park Theatre in Western Australia.

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