Hervey Bay local Mourell Dunston has taken home the prestigious Employee of the Year award at the 2021 Caravanning Queensland Awards (CPAQ). The CPAQ Awards, which celebrate the state’s most outstanding tourism professionals and parks, were announced this week – and Mourell and her team have been celebrating the win ever since.
Park Manager at Ingenia Holidays Hervey Bay , Mourell accepted the award on Tuesday night saying that she was honoured to have been recognised. “My time at Ingenia Holidays Hervey Bay has been really special to me, and I’ve put a lot of love into my work over the past few years – so it’s wonderful to have that acknowledged,” said Ms Dunston.
“My role here was my first job in the tourism industry, after spending more than 18 years in the mining industry. “I was looking for a sea change and generally a new direction with my professional life and I couldn’t be happier with that decision.
“The work is extremely gratifying, and the sense of pride you feel knowing that you’ve helped create long-lasting memories for the guests is second to none.”
Thanks to Mourell’s exceptional customer service, over the past three years, Ingenia Holidays Hervey Bay has experienced year-on-year growth – despite the challenges of the past year. Ingenia Holiday Parks General Manager Tourism Matthew Young said that Mourell’s sustained high performance and constant initiative has been instrumental to the business.
“Mourell not only successfully runs Ingenia Holidays Hervey Bay, but is the Queensland and Northern New South Wales Operational Coach, which sees her leading the training and onboarding of new Ingenia Holidays managers in the region.
“She is always willing to go above and beyond and is an invaluable member of the Ingenia Holiday Parks team. “Given her experience in the industry has been limited to three years, it’s truly remarkable to witness not only what she’s achieved for the park, but for the Hervey Bay region.
“Mourell has introduced numerous groups to the park to host their events including the United Trickers Association, Historical Motorcycle Club and a number of caravanning clubs, who regularly return. “The initiative taken to forge relationships with these organisations and to attract new guests, has greatly benefited the park and the greater Fraser Coast area.
As a result of Mourell’s tireless dedication, Ingenia Holidays Hervey Bay has become a centre for tourism and an integral part of the Hervey Bay community. “I couldn’t have won this award without the support and dedication of my team,” said Ms Dunston.
“Every day they demonstrate their passion for the park and dedication to the guests – it’s wonderful to work with such a fantastic group of professionals.
