Paronella Park Takes Out Double Gold Gong at National Grey Nomad Awards

Paronella Park has won two prestigious Grey Nomad Awards, cementing their reputation as an attraction that caters to mature-age visitors in exemplary ways.

The attraction was announced the Gold winner of both the Best Grey Nomad Attraction and Best Grey Nomad Historic Attraction.

It was a clean sweep for Queensland in the Best Grey Nomad Attraction category, with Paronella Park nudging out Australian Age of Dinosaurs and Charlotte Plains Station Attraction for silver and bronze respectively, both of which are based in outback Queensland.

In the Best Grey Nomad Historic Attraction Paronella Park pipped Charlotte Plains Historic Attraction and the Booleroo Steam & Traction Museum in South Australia’s Southern Flinders Ranges.

The Grey Nomad Awards shine a light on regional Australia by showcasing the best places to stay and play, while supporting positive ageing through soft adventure and social inclusion.

With a focus on showcasing the vast experiences offered in regional, rural and remote Australia, this year’s awards championed communities and operators from all mainland states and territories except Western Australia.

With rigorous judging by mature-age tourism professionals, some of whom have experienced the grey nomad lifestyle personally, plus secondtier auditing, social analysis and due diligence, Paronella Park’s win has the credence of the tourism sector.

Built in the 1930s, Paronella Park is one of Queensland’s earliest tourist attractions. Featuring waterfalls, bridges, tunnels and castles, along with 7000 trees, the attraction incorporates RV camping for grey nomads eager to stay. Guided tours run all day every day, with special night-time experiences that include a sound and light show, ensuring that visitors can enjoy an in-depth look into why this property was voted the Number One Must Do in Queensland.

Awards Director Kim Morgan said the Awards provide verified information for mature-age travellers, helping guide their decisions on which are the best towns, campsites, tours and attractions to spend their hard-earned money.

“In that regard, these awards brought together an exemplary selection of domestic tourism experiences that perfectly reflect the unique, charming and high-quality offerings that matureage travellers can experience,” Ms Morgan said.

“Thanks to Mother Nature and the lasting effects on staffing brought about by the pandemic, 2022 remained a tough year for everyone in tourism in one way or another. Everyone recognised throughout the 2022 Awards program should take a bow for demonstrating innovation, resilience and a commitment to the pursuit of excellence under challenging circumstances.”

In commenting on the dual success, the judges said: “The vision and values of Paronella Park clearly underpin all its offerings, and have aided in the impressive expansion of the existing experiences, such as the extra night tour and extension to The Paddock RV site, plus the addition of accessible accommodation.

“Paronella Park has cleverly developed tours and maps that appeal to people with special interests, such as history, engineering and gardening. That is perfect for grey nomads, who are always looking for authentic experiences that educate them, provide connection, and are good value for money.”

Paronella Park Marketing Manager Bridget Evans said she was thrilled to receive the awards.

“The Grey Nomad market is one that has always taken care of us, often coming back to visit us year after year on their annual pilgrimage to enjoy our beautiful winter weather in Far North Queensland,” she said.

“Grey Nomads are an essential part of our industry, and we take great pride in catering to their unique needs. We are honoured that our efforts have been recognised with these awards, and we will continue to work hard to provide unforgettable experiences for all of our visitors.”