Ten outstanding tourist destinations, businesses and industry professionals from Outback Queensland have been recognised for their astonishing efforts in the tourism industry at the state’s annual Tourism Awards.
The 39th awards ceremony, held on Friday, 15 November, honoured the finest individuals, businesses and events from across the state.
The gold Outback award winners include Micthell Grass Retreat for Unique Accommodation, Fun Over 50 Holidays for Tour and Transport Operators, Quilpie Visitor Information Centre, Museum and Gallery for Visitor Information Services and the Big Red Bash for Festival and Events.
The gold award winners will represent Queensland at the Australian awards held in Adelaide, in March 2025.
Congratulations to all top winners across all categories.
Mitchell Grass Retreat, Longreach
Tanya and David Neal were awarded gold in the Unique Accommodation section for their distinctively different retreat.
Established in 2020, the Outback retreat offers overnight glamping accommodations and facilities on the 60-acre Mitchell grasslands property.
“For a family business, we are ecstatic about being recognised with gold at this year’s tourism awards,” Tanya said.
“Winning this award is not only a source of pride for Mitchell Grass Retreat but also has a positive impact on Longreach tourism as a whole.
“By being recognised on the night, it’s not just about us, it’s about the whole Outback region which is showcased.
“As the region gains recognition through our and others’ success, it encourages more visitors to explore the area, benefiting local businesses and contributing to the overall growth of tourism in the community.
“We are proud to play a role in promoting our wonderful town as a must-visit destination.”
Fun Over 50 Holidays
The Australian-owned and operated business has added another award to its collection after being recognised as a gold achiever for the Queensland Tour and Transport Operators.
The company provides immense tours and adventures for people over the age of 50 from across the nation, coordinating over 140 departures annually by coach, cruise, rail and air travel.
Business founder Toni Brennan established the company in August 2002 after wanting to break the stereotype of extended tour travel for those aged over 50.
In 2017 the group took advantage of their coach touring expertise and launched its Diamond Class coach tours, also known as ‘business class on wheels.’
These coaches offer guests a red carpet entry, gallery kitchen, WIFI and extra-wide leather reclining seats.
Quilpie Visitor Information Centre, Museum and Gallery
Quilpie’s very own museum, gallery and information centre have yet again been awarded for their incredible efforts.
Located in the main street of town, the centre is known for its one-stop-shop demeanour as it contains all travel information including maps, brochures and itineraries.
The interactive museum displays the rugged history of the early pioneers, and the Shire Gallery hosts an exhibition each month including travelling displays and works by local artists.
The centre also has an adjoining military history and rail museum section.
The Birdsville Big Red Bash
The Big Red Bash, known to be the most remote music festival in the world, has been awarded gold at the Queensland Tourism Awards.
Held annually in July, the event creates what they like to call a ‘mini desert city’ from scratch every year, inviting Aussies from across the country to partake in the three-day fun-filled camping and concert experience.
Established in 2013, the concert and campsite grounds, known as Bashville, are located on an organic cattle station, Adria Downs.
Silver Outback winners
Outback Queensland Masters – Festivals and Events
Western Queensland Spirit – Tourism Wineries, Distilleries and Breweries
Cobbold Gorge Tours – Tourist Attractions
St George Region – Tourism Marketing and Campaigns
Fun Over 50 Holidays – Ecotourism
Bronze Outback winner
WWII Secret Base and Tour – Cultural Tourism
