Julie Pernecker and Theo Whitmont honoured with Eric Hayman OAM Award for Excellence

Julie Pernecker and Theo Whitmont have been awarded the caravan and camping industry’s highest accolade – the prestigious Eric Hayman OAM Award for Excellence.

The pair were recognised as part of the 2025 Caravan Industry Awards, presented at the Caravan Industry National Conference Gala Dinner on Friday evening, 16 May.

Julie was present at the RACV Royal Pines Resort to accept her award, while Theo was honoured posthumously.

Read on to learn more about the significant contributions Julie and Theo have made to the industry.

Julie Pernecker: A champion for caravan holiday park insurance

For nearly three decades, Julie Pernecker, founder of All Parks Insurance, has been a driving force in meeting the complex insurance needs of Australia’s caravan holiday parks.

Beginning her career at her father’s underwriting agency, Parks Insurance, Julie has built a reputation for deep industry knowledge and unwavering commitment. She personally visits parks across the country on a rolling three-year cycle – whether they are clients or not – to better understand the sector’s evolving risks and challenges.

When the industry faced a major hurdle with reduced insurance capacity, Julie took action, travelling overseas to engage with global reinsurers and bring back vital solutions for Australian operators.

She also played a key role in developing the National Insurance Roadmap and Risk Toolkit and continues to support the sector through regular sponsorships and active participation in national and state events.

Julie’s work has had a national impact, earning her a well-deserved reputation as a trusted advisor and advocate for the future of Australia’s caravan holiday park industry, making her a worthy recipient of the Eric Hayman OAM Award.

Theo Whitmont: A legacy of industry leadership

Theo Whitmont’s leadership, vision, and advocacy were instrumental in shaping the success of Australia’s caravan and camping industry.

Over more than 30 years, he contributed significantly at both state and national levels — serving on key industry committees, fostering cultural growth in major businesses, and managing parks across Queensland and New South Wales.

Theo was a Director of the Caravan & Camping Industry Association NSW from 2008-2024, including an influential term as President from 2009-2020. He also served as a Director at BIG4 Holiday Parks from 2016-2024, chairing its People and Governance Committee from 2022-2024.

As an owner-operator of several successful caravan parks and land lease communities, Theo brought practical insights and innovation to every leadership role he held.

Above all, he is remembered for his integrity and warmth.

“Theo was probably the most likable and capable person of our industry,” said one industry colleague. “He was smart, quick witted, funnily self-deprecating, eloquent, generous and so, so much fun to be around.”

Theo’s exceptional contributions, national influence, and unwavering passion make him a truly deserving recipient of the Eric Hayman OAM Award for Excellence.