FNQ businesses dominate Queensland Tourism Awards with major wins
Far North Queensland’s top tourism businesses have taken home major prizes at the state's prestigious industry awards, showcasing the region's dominance.
Far North Queensland’s tourism sector dominated the Queensland Tourism Awards, with 23 local businesses claiming major honours on Friday night.
Among the winners was The Reef House Adults Retreat at Palm Cove, which was named Queensland’s best Five Star Luxury Accommodation after winning Gold for the fourth consecutive year.
Reef House directors David Horbelt and Malcolm Bean congratulated the boutique hotel’s team led by General Manager Wayne Harris which won the prestigious award for the fourth year in a row.
“Our objective every day is to offer a unique destination that our guests choose to revisit year after year resulting in return guests accounting for almost half of The Reef House Adults Retreat room nights,” Mr Bean said.
Mr Horbelt said resort has added new in-house experiences for their loyal guests.
“This year we introduced the Prancing Horse Luxury Supercar Driving Experience and in February we will host The Reef House’s first Wellness Retreat,” Mr Horbelt said.
“Today The Reef House Adults Retreat continues to treat every guest like a celebrity with Escape Planning Specialists customising a personalised itinerary of experiences to ensure total rest, relaxation and rejuvenation for each guest.”
Tropical Tourism North Queensland chief executive officer Mark Olsen congratulated the region’s 23 winners that took gold, silver, bronze and highly commended accolades at the 2025 Queensland Tourism Awards.
“The Tropical North Queensland tourism industry strives for excellence in everything we do from our marketing to our accommodation, experiences, business events, tour attractions and events,” Mr Olsen said.
“Our industry continues to innovate their offering to drive Queensland’s market share and that is reflected in these great results for the destination.”
Queensland Tourism Industry Council chief executive Natassia Wheeler said the region’s strong performance reflects its enduring leadership within the state’s visitor economy.
“Tropical North Queensland continues to set the benchmark for innovation and quality in tourism,” Ms Wheeler said.
“From world-heritage natural wonders to authentic cultural experiences, these award-winning businesses demonstrate the strength and spirit of the North – and their success helps drive Queensland’s reputation globally.”
Originally published as FNQ businesses dominate Queensland Tourism Awards with major wins
