A franchised resort has taken out the top award in the 2012 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards. Big4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort was named Top Caravan and Tourist Park.

Franchisees Greg and Naomi McKinnon beat six other finalists to get the top slot – and five of these were also members of the Big4 Holiday Parks group.

The pair said consistent quality service, looking after staff, and an innovative and flexible approach to business helped them win the award.

“We know that if you believe in your staff, they will be passionate about looking after your guests and your product”, the couple said. “Winning the award is a huge honour for the team, we’re really proud of everyone’s effort.”

The resort is at Airlie Beach and caters for all budgets and tastes with accommodation ranging from camping sites to three bedroom condos.

OTHER AWARDS

The group’s Deniliquin Holiday Park took the silver award with Adelaide Shores Caravan Park awarded the bronze.

The other finalists from the Big4 chain were the state winners for Tasmania (St Helens Holiday Park), Northern Territory (MacDonnell Range Holiday Park) and Western Australia (Peppermint Park).