
Congratulations to Ridgemill Estate and Diamondvale Estate who won significant accolades at the Queensland Tourism Industry Council's 2025 awards on November 14.
Ridgemill Estate won second place for the 'Self Contained Accommodation' Category andowner Michelle Feenan told our newspaper she's "incredibly proud" of their "whole team who help provide a sensational experience" for guests. "We love that our guests love what we do," Ms Feenan said. "The work done to achieve this award is mostly about good business management and (that) we strive hard to remain current and in tune with our tourism markets."
"We also thank QTIC for the opportunity to be part of these awards."
Diamondvale Estate, also on the Granite Belt, said they took on "'Goliaths' like Novotel and Quest" to be awarded bronze in the '4.5 Star Deluxe Accommodation' category. "The noise when the announcements were made was amazing," owner Rachael Lang told us. "It’s great to see a family-owned-and-operated businesses, with a focus on superior guest experiences and being embedded in the local community were recognised."
Other entrants, also to be congratulated, included The Shed, Balancing Heart, and 31 The Rocks.
"This level of entries in the Queensland Country area was a first and CEO Peter Homan was thrilled to have a large contingent of operators seated on tables together," Ms Lang said. "(It was) a testament to the collegiate and supportive industry and area we work in."