Gold Rush for Queensland at the Australian Tourism Awards!

Birdsville Big Red Bash

Queensland is celebrating a remarkable victory at the 2025 Australian Tourism Awards, where the state’s tourism operators dominated the competition, securing six prestigious gold awards. Last week in Adelaide, Queensland shone brightly with both new and returning winners, continuing to prove that the Sunshine State is home to some of the most unique and memorable travel experiences in Australia.

Birdsville’s Big Red Bash: Australia's Best Festival and Event

Queensland’s own Birdsville Big Red Bash took home the highly coveted award for Australia’s Best Festival and Event. Held annually in the remote town of Birdsville, this iconic event attracts thousands of festivalgoers who gather for a unique celebration of music, culture, and the Australian outback. With its spectacular setting at the base of the Big Red sand dune, the festival has become a must-visit event for those seeking an unforgettable experience in the heart of Queensland’s outback.

BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort: A Triple Gold Winner

For the third consecutive year, BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort clinched the gold award in the Tourist & Caravan Park category. This stunning resort in Airlie Beach continues to set the benchmark for family-friendly holidays, offering a range of world-class facilities and experiences. From its luxurious accommodation options to its kid-friendly amenities and proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, it’s no surprise that BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort remains a favorite among visitors seeking adventure, relaxation, and everything in between.

Fun Over 50 Holidays – Immersive Tours and Adventures

Fun Over 50 Holidays also secured a gold award for its innovative Immersive Tours and Adventures. With a focus on offering tailored experiences for older travelers, this operator creates memorable, personalized journeys through Queensland’s rich landscapes and vibrant culture. Whether it's exploring the tropics of the far north or discovering the wonders of regional Queensland, Fun Over 50 Holidays continues to provide unforgettable experiences for a growing market of adventure-seeking seniors.

Other Gold Winners in Queensland

In addition to the standout awards for Birdsville’s Big Red Bash, BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort, and Fun Over 50 Holidays, several other Queensland operators claimed gold, further enhancing the state’s reputation as a tourism powerhouse. Sea World Cruises Dining Experiences won gold for its exceptional blend of gourmet dining and cruising experiences, while The Reef House Adults Retreat was recognized for its exceptional adult-only getaway in Palm Cove, offering the perfect combination of tranquility and luxury. Cape York Peninsula Lodge also received gold for providing visitors with a unique escape in the far north of Queensland, offering an authentic and immersive experience in one of Australia’s most remote and beautiful regions.

Queensland’s Silver and Bronze Winners Shine Too

The achievements of Queensland’s tourism industry didn’t stop at gold. Several other operators earned silver and bronze accolades, further showcasing the state’s diverse and thriving tourism sector. Pinnacles, Airlie Beach received silver for its exceptional boutique accommodation, while the Quilpie Visitor Information Centre and Museum & Gallery earned silver in the Visitor Information Services category. Ocean Rafting Queensland, Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort, and Aquascene Magnetic Island were awarded bronze, recognizing their continued excellence in delivering outstanding experiences for travelers.

Queensland: Leading the Way in Australian Tourism

The success of these Queensland operators at the 2025 Australian Tourism Awards highlights the state’s ongoing commitment to offering visitors unique and world-class experiences. From the rugged outback to the tropical coastlines, Queensland continues to lead the way in Australian tourism, creating unforgettable memories for travelers from all over the world.

For more information on Queensland’s award-winning tourism experiences, visit Queensland Tourism.