Last year’s 40th Queensland Tourism Awards delivered an exceptional night for operators connected to the Southern Great Barrier Reef (SGBR), with regional tourism businesses recognised for their quality, innovation and outstanding contribution to Queensland’s visitor economy. Their success reflects not just excellence in experience and service, but a forward-looking vision that continues to elevate our Reef on the national stage.
GOLD, SILVER & BRONZE ACCOLADES FOR SGBR OPERATORS
GOLD – NRMA Turtle Sands Nature Resort
The region’s brightest success story of the night — NRMA Turtle Sands Nature Resort was crowned Gold in the New Tourism Business category. Just metres from one of Australia’s most significant turtle nesting sites, this nature-connected destination showcased not only innovation and guest appeal but also the unique ecological richness of the SGBR.
SILVER – Great Keppel Island Hideaway
A perennial favourite for island escapes, Great Keppel Island Hideaway earned Silver in the 3–3.5 Star Accommodation category — a win that celebrates the relaxed, locally authentic hospitality that keeps visitors returning to our coastline.
SILVER — Bundaberg Rum Distillery
Another regional success story, Bundaberg Rum Distillery was recognised with Silver in the Tourism Wineries, Distilleries & Breweries category — a win that celebrates the distillery’s role in crafting world-class experiences connected to our lifestyle, production heritage and the wider Reef destination.
SILVER — Rockynats 05
Rockynats 05 took Silver in the Festivals & Events category, highlighting the energy, creativity and strong community support behind one of the region’s most iconic annual events.
BRONZE – High Valley Dawn Permaculture Farm
Making an impressive debut in its first year of entry, High Valley Dawn Permaculture Farm secured Bronze in the Unique Accommodation category. This off-grid, regenerative farm stay embodies sustainable tourism and offers guests an immersive, eco-centric experience in harmony with nature — perfectly aligned with the SGBR’s authentic adventure and nature ethos.
Highlighting an Industry Leader: Eloise Chaffers
Many of you may know Eloise Chaffers — and this year, her influence and leadership were formally recognised.
Eloise was awarded the 2025 Queensland Tourism Awards’ Young Tourism Achiever of the Year (Stephen Gregg Bursary), celebrating her outstanding contribution to sustainable tourism, regional collaboration and industry mentorship. This accolade reflects Eloise’s deep commitment to the Southern Great Barrier Reef, community partnership and Tourism’s future leaders.
Fun Over 50 Holidays’ Golden Trifecta
While based in Brisbane, Fun Over 50 Holidays – Immersive Tours and Adventures has deep roots in Yeppoon and the SGBR — and this year the business claimed an extraordinary three Gold Awards across Cultural Tourism, Major Tour & Transport Operators, and The Steve Irwin Award for Ecotourism at the Queensland Tourism Awards. Founded in Yeppoon in 2002, Fun Over 50 Holidays continues to weave SGBR into its touring portfolio, bringing travellers of all ages through truly meaningful, sustainable and culturally rich itineraries that celebrate local stories, landscapes and communities. Their success is a testament to the region’s strength as both an origin story and ongoing partner in creating unforgettable travel experiences.
