Principal Sponsors:
Principal Sponsors:
The newly created thl Rising Star Award recognises emerging talent shaping the future of Australia’s caravan and camping industry. Open to individuals aged 40 years or under, or those who have been in the industry for less than two years, this award recognises outstanding potential, genuine passion and a clear ambition to make a lasting contribution to the industry.
Nominations close Monday 27 April 2026, 5:00pm AEDT.
Aged 40 years or under at the time of submission, or those who have been in the industry for less than two years.
Currently employed within, or directly connected to, the caravan and camping industry.
Must not hold a senior or executive position with strategic input. Operational and line management roles — such as a caravan park manager, production supervisor or sales manager — are eligible.
The award has a self-nomination process — applicants submit on their own behalf.
Applicants are invited to submit a pre-recorded video of no more than three minutes addressing the four questions below. Applicants are required to present to camera, however, may use visual aids or on-screen visual elements.
Presentation questions (may be discussed any order):
1. Your Vision: Where do you see yourself in five years’ time, and how does the caravan and camping industry fit into that vision?
2.Your Contribution: As a future leader for the caravan and camping Industry, what would you like to achieve and how would you look to make a positive contribution to the industry and its community?
3.Your Development: If you are awarded the 2026 thl Rising Star Award, what professional development would you pursue, and how would it help you achieve your career ambitions?
4.Your Industry Perspective: What do you see as the single most significant challenge and opportunity facing the caravan and camping industry right now, and what role do you think the next generation of leaders should play in addressing these?
selection process
Submissions will be assessed by state industry association representatives against the following criteria:
Clarity of vision: Does the applicant have a compelling and realistic picture of their future in the industry?
Passion and authenticity: Does their enthusiasm for the industry come through genuinely?
Industry awareness: Do they demonstrate an understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the sector?
Professional development intent: Is their proposed development purposeful and well-considered?
Presentation quality: Is the submission well-structured, clearly communicated, within allocated time and delivered with confidence and professionalism?
Prizes
The winner of the thl Rising Star Award will receive:
The 2026 thl Rising Star Award trophy and certificate.
Recognition at the 2026 National Conference Gala Dinner.
$5,000 towards an agreed professional development program (must be taken within 12 months) in consultation with Caravan Industry Association of Australia.
One complimentary registration for the 2026 National Conference (including Gala Dinner) and one night’s accommodation (room only) on Friday 15 May.
Opportunity to observe a future National Board meeting.
An invitation to an upcoming Friends of Caravanning event held within Parliament House in Canberra.
Ongoing opportunities to represent the industry at events, forums and through media throughout the year.
Three finalists will be selected for the thl Rising Star Award. Runners-up will receive up to $1,000 towards industry study or professional development. All three finalists will receive a complimentary registration for the 2026 National Conference (including Gala dinner) and one night’s accommodation (room only) on Friday 15 May.
How to submit
Video nominations must address all criteria and be submitted online by Monday 27 April 2026, 5:00pm AEDT.