It was the first award the Altin family had ever applied for, but they were quickly chosen out of hundreds of enticing tourist traps across regional Australia.

Managing director Gloria Altin said the wildlife park had been steadily growing a reputation as the Riverina's must-see tourist destination.

"We're getting them from everywhere - from West Wyalong, from Shepparton, we even get people booking in from overseas," Mrs Altin said.

"We're a place where people come to relax, see some lovely animals, and learn some quirky facts about each of them."

Tourism is one thing, but Mrs Altin said the park's number one priority had always been animal conservation.

Every year they've been bringing in new, endangered animals into the fold and doing their bit to bolster their dwindling population.

Addax antelopes, scimitar horned onyxes, and Mongolian wild horses are just some of the critically endangered species under the care of Altina Wildlife.

Tourists who come to Altina Wildlife are given a whirlwind tour of the park and told about the ongoing battle to preserve the animals from extinction.

"We want to keep making a difference for these animal's futures," Mrs Altin said.

Regional Tourism Awards chairwoman Jane Barnes said the competition for this year's awards had been fierce.

"This year's finalists showcase the best of the regional New South Wales' tourism industry and some amazing individuals and operators," Mrs Barnes said.

"The Regional Tourism Awards are an invaluable opportunity for the industry to come together and celebrate business excellence across the sector".

Winners of the Regional Tourism Awards gain finalist status upon entering the NSW Tourism Awards, and if successful, go onto the Australian Tourism Awards.

The winners of the various categories will be announced on July 27 in Dubbo.

It'll be followed by several events and workshops, where businesses will brainstorm ways to get more tourists into the regions and more foot traffic through the doors.

Altina is one of six groups that will be representing the Riverina at the awards, the others being Belisi Farmstay, Bundyi Cultural Tours, Cameo Inn Motel, Courabyra Windes, and Foodiam.