Under a sky full of campfires & caravans: Celebrating champions at 2025 Industry Awards

Magic was in the air at the RACV Royal Pines Resort on Friday 16 May, as the Australian caravan and camping community came together for the 2025 National Conference Gala Dinner.

And what a night it was! From a jaw-dropping camping and caravan park holiday experience-themed drone show lighting up the Gold Coast sky to standing ovations and heartfelt moments, this event truly celebrated the people and passion driving this industry forward.

Kicking off the night, hundreds of eyes turned skyward as colourful drones danced overhead, forming campfires, motorhomes, and beach umbrellas and even a champagne cheers—setting the perfect mood for a night of recognition, reflection, and a true celebration of everything uniquely Australian.

Honouring legends

The evening’s highest honour—the Eric Hayman OAM Award for Excellence—was shared by two incredible industry figures.

Julie Pernecker was there to accept her award in person, receiving a well-deserved standing ovation for her years of service supporting the insurance needs of Australia’s caravan parks.

Theo Whitmont, remembered fondly and honoured posthumously, was recognised for his extraordinary leadership and vision. His legacy continues to shape and strengthen the industry, and the room fell silent in heartfelt respect as his award was accepted on his behalf.

Cheers for the parks

From there, the spotlight turned to the heart of the industry—our caravan parks and the people who make them special.

Ocean Beach Tourist Park was crowned ReviewPro People’s Choice Caravan Park of the Year, while McLean Beach Holiday Park and Imbil Camping Retreat took out Silver and Bronze respectively.

The Most Improved Park Award was handed to the hardworking team at Coobowie Caravan Park, celebrating their transformation and commitment to progress.

Community was another big theme of the night. The inaugural Christie Barbecues Community Engagement Award went to NRMA Parks and Resorts and Roger Fuller of Yarrawonga Manufactured Housing for going above and beyond in building strong, lasting ties with their local communities.

Innovation and excellence

Holiday Brands took home the Gerry Ryan OAM Award for Innovation for helping parks embrace smart tech, like AI-powered guest comms and review management tools, to drive more direct bookings and better guest experiences.

Former CIAA Chair Grant Wilckens received the Richard Davis OAM Award for his exceptional leadership through both record growth and the pandemic’s toughest days.

And Chairperson Donna Cocking had the pleasure of handing out four Chairperson’s Awards, recognising David Pratt, Brendan Heenan, Lyndel Gray, and Tony Briant for their vital roles behind the scenes.

Next-Gen shoutout

The future looks bright, too. Amanda Dempster of Holiday Brands and Stanthorpe Holiday Park was announced winner of the thl – Future Leaders Award, taking home a trophy and a $10,000 scholarship. Finalists Mitchell Gawthorn, Blake Gray, Jack Hillis, and Erin Stevenson each received $1000 scholarships—proof the next generation is already making waves.

And in a new category this year, the Ultimate Business Systems – RV Salesperson of the Year Award went to Jessica Herring of True North RV in South Australia, whose standout service, deep product knowledge, and warm customer care made her a clear favourite.

People’s choice: Best in the biz

The crowd-pleasing RVMAP People’s Choice Manufacturer of the Year, sponsored by DLL, saw Australian Off Road take Gold, Horizon Motorhomes snag Silver, and Royal Flair scoop up Bronze.

AccomNews was proud to be there on the night, surrounded by industry legends, changemakers, and future stars. Congratulations to all the winners and nominees—you’re what makes this industry shine.

Stay tuned—for more awards and event coverage in our full conference wrap next week!

Read more about the award winners HERE.