[Video] Dicky Beach Family Holiday Park has been named in Queensland’s Top 10 family holiday destinations.
The Sunshine Coast Council-managed park was voted in by Holiday with Kids’ readers, a travel magazine distributed to travel agents across Australia and on Qantas flights.
Holidays with Kids has more than 600,000 readers and 14,000 fans of its Caravan, Camping and 4WD Facebook page.
Divisional councillor Tim Dwyer grew up in the area and has seen the Dicky Beach Holiday Park expand and modernise over the years.
He said the “well-deserved” Readers’ Choice Award would increase the profile of one of the Coast’s most popular holiday parks.
“I’m pleased as punch the park has been recognised in this way,” Cr Dwyer said.
“It has always played an active and important role in the life of the local community.
“The caravan park is in a great location – the surf club is close by and it’s a short stroll to the patrolled beach.
“It forms an integral part of the community and the visitors staying there are great for local business.”
Cr Dwyer said the award recognised the extra mile park managers went to, to create a great holiday atmosphere and family memories.
“As with all our holiday parks, it helps that the Dicky Beach site is located on prime beachside property with access to beaches, playgrounds, barbecue areas and wide grassy spaces,” he said.
“But it’s more than that. Today’s family wants clean facilities and great service. Our high percentage of return visitors shows this is important when planning a family getaway.”
Park managers Peter and Marie Segger are proud of the recognition, understanding that holidays are as much about creating family memories as taking a break.
Marie grew up at the Dicky Beach Holiday Park from 11-19 years of age, often helping her parents David and Carol Cherry who managed the park.
Together with her older sisters Laura and Natalie, her life was surrounded by holidaying guests.
Marie loved the lifestyle so much, she and Peter returned four years ago to take on the holiday park’s management.
The park has 84 powered tourist caravan sites – 11 of them with water views, 53 un-powered tent sites and 12 self-contained motel-style units.
As well as the Dicky Beach Family Holiday Park, Sunshine Coast Council operates parks at Mooloolaba, Maroochydore, Cotton Tree, Mudjimba and Coolum Beach.
Business Unit portfolio councillor Chris Thompson said after three wet summers, fine weather had helped increase February occupancy across the council’s six holiday parks by 20% on the same month in 2013.
“That flows on to businesses throughout the Sunshine Coast as visitors explore everything we have to offer,” Cr Thompson said.
“These days, as well as powered caravan sites and unpowered tent sites, visitors can stay in ensuited cabins, offering all the comforts of home right on the beach.
“Holiday parks are now appealing to a broader market and all budgets.”
For more information, visit www.sunshinecoastholidayparks.com.au.