Members of the Weipa Camping Ground crew celebrate the local business winning the Team of the Year Award at the 2025 Caravan Parks Association of Queensland Awards on 12 May. Photo: Supplied.
It’s official: when it comes to teams, Weipa has the best in the state in its own backyard.
The Weipa Camping Ground crew has been crowned Team of the Year at the 2025 Caravan Parks Association of Queensland Awards earlier this month, and is ready to show off the service that won them the prestigious gong as visitors start their annual pilgrimage to Cape York.
It was a big night for the local business, with Darci Lawson also shortlisted from nominees across Queensland as a finalist in the Simon Warner Memorial Young Achiever of the Year Award.
General manager Gemma Shaw said the team was still on a high after their name was called out during the awards ceremony.
“This award means a great deal to all of us at Weipa Camping Ground,” she said.
“Our team puts in an incredible amount of effort every day, and to have that dedication recognised in this way is truly special.
“It’s a proud moment that celebrates the hard work, passion and teamwork that define our approach.”
Ms Shaw travelled to the Gold Coast with Ms Lawson, Brooke Quartermaine, Lyn Frost and Nadine Loof for the awards night, and said it had been an opportunity to promote the region to industry representatives.
“The awards ceremony was an incredible experience and such a privilege to be part of,” she said.
“It was truly inspiring to see industry leaders from across the country being recognised for their achievements, and it gave us a great chance to connect with others in the caravan park sector.
“Many people were surprised we had travelled all the way from Weipa to the Gold Coast for the event – some hadn’t even heard of Weipa before – so, it was a fantastic opportunity to put our little corner of the world on the map and build valuable connections for the future.
“And yes, we absolutely made the most of the chance to dress up; opportunities like this don’t come around often in Weipa, so it was lovely to step out in style and enjoy a couple of days away.”
Now back on the ground in Weipa, if not back from cloud nine, the team plans to promote its win in a bid to attract more caravanners to western Cape York.
“This award means a great deal to us, and we’re excited to share it with our guests,” Ms Shaw said.
“It’s a reflection of the strong family values that define our workplace culture; we see each other as family, and that genuine connection extends to the way we welcome and care for our visitors.
“We take great pride in creating an environment where guests feel at home, and this recognition reinforces the spirit of service and warmth that we strive to offer every day.”
