The stage is set for one of the industry’s most anticipated celebrations—The Best of Tourism Awards 2025.
On October 10 at The Star Gold Coast, the awards will honour the people and businesses shaping the future of tourism and accommodation. From visionary leaders to innovative newcomers and community champions, this year’s finalists embody excellence, resilience, and impact across the sector.
Looking back, it’s inspiring to see how previous winners have set the standard. Last year, Gold Coast management rights operator Madison Lee was celebrated for her exceptional leadership, winning the Female Leader Award.
ULTIQA Hotels & Resorts earned accolades for its business model, proving that innovation and vision can reshape the way we think about management rights.
And who could forget Marion Simon of Boulevard North Holiday Apartments, whose leadership and community spirit continue to shine brightly across the industry.
“This year’s nominees are equally outstanding—a cross-section of our community reminding us that behind every guest experience lies a story of dedication, creativity, and heart,”said Sam Steel co-founder of Resly and The Best of Tourism Awards.
Meet the finalists:
Manager of the Year Award
Spotlighting exceptional managers inspiring their teams.
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Courtney Pelucchi
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Adam Forsythe
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Monique Fitzgerald
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Geoff Whybrow
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Zoe Jennings
Business of the Year Award
Celebrating visionary businesses driving growth and innovation.
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Airkeeper
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Nuve Escapes
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StayCo
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Moxxi Property
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ULTIQA
Community Spirit Award
Highlighting those who embody community values and leadership.
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Jill Hopper
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Cheree Van Wijk
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Caleb McSweeney
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Ashleigh Eslick
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Marion Simon
Industry Ally Award
Recognising businesses that support and collaborate to advance the industry.
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Victoria Cuda
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Matthew Rose
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Chantelle Du Plessis
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Bart Sobies
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Miles Stewart
One to Watch Award
Spotlighting promising newcomers making an impact.
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Kim McMillan
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Coffs Coast Accommodation
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Hannah Buchanan
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Kim Williams
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The Belmo Group
Female Leader Award
Honouring strong, resourceful female leaders driving change.
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Melissa Pearson
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Lauren Heys
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Sue Fairweather
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Bobbie Murphy
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Sarah Clark
Innovation Award
Celebrating bold vision redefining industry standards.
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Stephen West
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Flexkeeping
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Dan De Witte
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Andrew Tingate
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Dan White
🌟 Now it’s over to you!
These awards are shaped by the voices of the industry — and your vote matters. Help celebrate the leaders, innovators, and community champions driving tourism forward.
👉 Cast your vote today at thebestofawards.com.au/vote
Read about Marion Simon’s journey on AccomNews HERE
Read about ULTIQA Hotels & Resorts on AccomNews HERE
