THE WHITSUNDAYS shone brightly at the 2024 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards, last Friday night, securing an impressive trifecta of awards highlighting the region’s tourism excellence.
Among the night’s standout achievements, BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort was inducted into the prestigious Hall of Fame, after securing gold for three consecutive years in the Caravan and Holiday Parks category, cementing its status as an industry leader.
The Whitsundays celebrated further success with two additional operators achieving national recognition:
- GOLD: BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort – Caravan & Holiday Parks (Hall of Fame inductee)
- SILVER: Pinnacles, Airlie Beach – Self-Contained Accommodation
- BRONZE: Ocean Rafting – Major Tour & Transport Operators
The illustrious awards ceremony, at the Adelaide Convention Centre in South Australia, celebrated four decades of tourism excellence, while showcasing the industry’s finest.
Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth said it was an incredible night for the Whitsundays.
“Winning Gold, Silver and Bronze, across different categories, shows just how amazing our tourism offerings are,” he said.
“I couldn’t be prouder of our operators and seeing BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort winning gold was definitely a highlight.
“These awards aren’t just trophies on a shelf, they represent the heart and soul that our tourism businesses pour into creating unforgettable memories for visitors.
“It’s this dedication that keeps people coming back to the Whitsundays time and again.”
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins congratulated BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort, Pinnacles, and Ocean Rafting for doing the region proud.
“Tourism is the beating heart of the Whitsundays economy, and these national awards highlight the strength and resilience of our industry,” Mayor Collins said.
“Being recognised on such a prestigious platform showcases the outstanding work being done by our local businesses and sends a clear message – the Whitsundays is not just a beautiful place to visit, it’s a leader in Australian tourism.”
BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort owner Greg McKinnon, who attended the gala event with some of his team, expressed immense pride over the national recognition.
“Winning three years in a row and being inducted into the Hall of Fame is far beyond what we’d imagined, particularly when we are competing against the best holiday parks in the country,” he said.
“The competition in our category was outstanding, so we are extremely honoured to accept this gold award, while also entering the Hall of Fame on an Australian level.
“This national win again highlights our dedication to setting industry benchmarks, consistently delivering top-tier facilities, exceptional customer service and unforgettable family holidays.
“We’ll continue striving for excellence, while incorporating some exciting new developments in the near future, which our guests will love and which will only enhance their overall experience.”
Peter and Jan Claxton, the proud owners of Ocean Rafting for 28 years, along with Nathan their Sales and Marketing Captain of 13 years, were overjoyed to represent the family-owned business at the awards ceremony.
“A huge thank you to all our team, both past and present, who share our passion for tourism and showcasing nature’s wonders,” Peter said.
“We are proud to continue stepping onto the podium and winning awards like this for all those who have made Ocean Rafting what it is today.
“Additionally, I would like to thank all our guests who have enjoyed a day out, whether that be on the water or in the air, in the last 28 years of operations.”
Jan added, “These awards are for our team, as much as they’re for us, so cheers to us, and cheers to the team.”
