Caravan Industry Awards recognise leaders and innovators

The Caravan Industry Awards have once again honoured the leaders and innovators driving excellence across Australia’s caravan and camping sector.

Presented during the 2026 Carvan Industry National Conference Gala Dinner last Friday (15 May), the awards recognised outstanding achievement and dedication within the industry.

The industry’s highest accolade, the Eric Hayman OAM Award for Excellence, was bestowed upon the team at BDO South Australia for its outstanding contribution to the industry through more than 15 years of leadership and expertise in advancing the sector’s research, data and analytical maturity.

Caravan Industry Association of Australia congratulates this year’s award winners, and thanks them for their valuable contributions to the caravan and camping sector.

Richard Davis OAM Award

The Richard Davis OAM Award was presented to Bill Thiel, recognising his service to the peak national body through his technical expertise and commitment to safety and standards. Bill has made a significant contribution to gas regulation, industry education and compliance programs, including RVMAP and RV Gas Ready.

Gerry Ryan AO Award for Innovation

Jason Filippini received the Gerry Ryan AO Award for Innovation for his development of a subterranean battery system that helps caravan holiday parks reduce energy costs, improve infrastructure efficiency and operate with greater flexibility – delivering a multi-layered return on investment.

thl Industry Leadership Award (Under 40)

The thl Industry Leadership Award (Under 40) was presented to Erin Stevenson of Storable (Newbook). Over 13 years, Erin’s relentless focus on improving operational structure and customer success has driven growth and key transitions at Newbook, helping transform the business from a start-up into a market-leading hospitality management platform.

thl Rising Star Award

Alannah Hein took home the inaugural thl Rising Star Award, recognising her outstanding potential and contribution to fostering a collaborative and supportive industry culture through her work with SA Parks Association and Revenue Creatures. A special mention to runners up Matilda Coles and Matthew McDonald.

Ultimate Business Systems – RV Salesperson of the Year Award

The Ultimate Business Systems – RV Salesperson of the Year Award went to Wayne Chevis of Market Direct Group – MDC Campers and Caravans, recognising his professionalism, commitment to best-practice customer service and his work developing staff sales training initiatives.

Christie Barbecues Community Engagement Award

The Christie Barbecues Community Engagement Award went to the Caravan Trade & Industries Association of Queensland for its VanSafe Program, recognising a community-driven initiative that addresses critical road safety issues while strengthening trust between the caravan industry and the travelling public.

Chairperson’s Awards

Donna Cocking presented the Chairperson’s Award to Martin Banham, David McIvor and Andreas Bischof (pictured left) – each recognised for their outstanding contributions to the industry’s advancement.

People’s Choice Awards

The industry’s People’s Choice Awards were also presented during the evening. RVMAP People’s Choice Manufacturer of the Year Awards, sponsored by DLL, went to:

  • Gold Motorised: Avida Motorhomes
  • Gold Towable: Concept Group
  • Silver Towable: Millard Caravans
  • Bronze Towable: Hilltop Caravans
Avida Motorhomes
Concept Group
Millard Caravans

ReviewPro Reputation People’s Choice Caravan Park of the Year Awards were presented to:

  • Gold: Mandalay Resort and Tourist Park
  • Silver: Stansbury Foreshore Caravan Park
  • Bronze: Ocean Beach Tourist Park
  • Blue (Most Improved): Tasman Holiday Parks – Kioloa Beach
Mandalay Resort and Tourist Park