NORTH Stradbroke Island and Cleveland have taken centre stage at the 40th annual Queensland Tourism Awards, with local operators recognised among the State’s best in a record-breaking year for the industry.
In the Tour and Transport Operators category, Stradbroke Island Tours received a Highly Commended, cementing its reputation as one of Queensland’s standout visitor experiences.
And in the Excellence in Accessible Tourism category, Bay Island Lifestyle, located in Raby Bay Foreshore Park, Cleveland was named category winner for its inclusive, water-based activities that use specialised, fit-for-purpose equipment to ensure “everyone, regardless of ability, can safely experience the joy of the ocean”.
Bay Island Lifestyle’s success reflects not only its accessibility-first philosophy but also the passion of owners Karen Robertson and Ashley, whose personal stories have shaped the business into one of the region’s most welcoming tourism offerings.
Ms Robertson, who grew up on Wales’ Gower Coast – the first place in the UK designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – said her childhood was defined by family beach days and water-based adventures.
After moving to Brisbane with her family 14 years ago, she discovered the Redlands Coast and its “crystal blue waters of southern Moreton Bay”.
“I am living my Aussie dream as a part owner of Bay Island Lifestyle,” she said.
Her business partner Ashley brings a very different journey to the shoreline.
Originally from Tasmania, he left home at 16 “with just a backpack and a surfboard”, later working his way up to managing a gold mine in Kalgoorlie before deciding to embrace a new lifestyle on the east coast.
“I am living my dream, owning Bay Island Lifestyle,” he said.
Their success came as leaders from across the state gathered to celebrate a booming year for Queensland tourism, with the State Government using the awards to highlight its “fresh start” for the sector and its long-term plan to drive growth through to 2045.
The Government confirmed Queensland’s position as the nation’s “home of the holiday” as the awards recognised winners across 31 categories, spanning events, ecotourism, cultural tourism, accommodation, and accessible tourism.
