Caravan Industry awards recognise ongoing commitment of individuals and organisations

The Caravan Industry has acknowledged the unwavering commitment of individuals and organisations through several prestigious award presentations during their National Conference Gala Dinner. 

Alison Huth received the caravan industry's highest honour - The Eric Hayman OAM Award for Excellence, for her incredible and passionate dedication to the betterment of the industry. Huth has given over 30 years service to the industry, providing invaluable assistance and advice to both Queensland parks and nationally over this time.  Actively participating in committees, Huth was tasked with providing industry advice around the Bed Bug explosion across Queensland, information which was subsequently provided nationally and broader across the tourism industry.  Her commitment to improving business practices saw her active involvement in park accreditation in formulative years and under her guidance the program grew from 10 to 330 properties.  She has more recently researched and authored books on the industry, and continues to write during her travels in a caravan for What’s Up Downunder positively profiling the caravan and camping industry to consumers.  Huth is the first female to receive the Eric Hayman OAM Award for Excellence.

Newbook secured the Gerry Ryan OAM Award for Innovation for the second year in a row.  While the Richard Davis OAM Award was bestowed upon two industry figureheads this year - Donna Cocking and Dennis Austin, for their above-and-beyond service to the National Body.  Grant Wilckens awarded a Chairman’s Award to Rob Lucas for his lengthy service to Caravan Industry Victoria and his commitment to improving standards within the industry.  The THL Future Leaders Award saw Jeb Grose take home the trophy and a $10,000 scholarship, while the remaining finalists, Nick Braun, Amanda Dempster, Ben Reichstein, and Stephen Ritchie did not leave empty-handed - each receiving a $1,000 scholarship.

The Industry's People's Choice Awards were also presented during the night with Sunland Caravans winning Gold in the DLL People’s Choice Manufacturer of the Year Awards and NRMA Forster Tuncurry Holiday Park winning Gold in the ReviewPro People’s Choice Caravan Park of the Year Awards.