Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
There’s plenty to celebrate down on the farm at Oh Deere Farm Stay, with the Calen-based business adding another accolade to its paddock of achievements after taking home bronze at the recent Queensland Tourism Awards.
The state recognition follows a strong showing at the Mackay Isaac Tourism Awards, where Oh Deere Farm Stay took out Unique Accommodation and Tour and Transport Operators, along with the People’s Choice Award for Accommodation. Both Oh Deere businesses were also named Queensland Tourism Awards finalists, with the farm stay now converting its nomination into a bronze win in the Unique Accommodation category.
For owners Karinda and Dale Anderson, the recognition is particularly meaningful, especially knowing the effort that goes into running a farm while welcoming visitors from near and far.
“To get to bronze at a state level is a big thing,” said Karinda.
“There are a lot of big operators and well-established businesses in Queensland, so it's a real achievement for us,” she said.
The event was held on Friday 6th November on the Gold Coast, and it’s the second time Oh Deere Farm Stay has earned bronze at the state awards, having also received the same recognition for Unique Accommodation in 2024.
But while awards are a welcome pat on the back, Karinda said recognition was never the reason they started welcoming guests.
“We never went into it to win awards. We went into it to make a difference in people's lives and give them somewhere to stay.”
Farm tours also offer an opportunity to learn more about agriculture, including the journey from plant to plate, bringing visitors closer to the sugarcane industry and lifestyle that shape the region.
Having owners Karinda and Dale on site means guests can enjoy a more hands-on and welcoming experience, with every stay offering something a little different.
“Every one of our stays is different. It's a little piece of paradise that you can't just get at a caravan park or anywhere else. That's what makes it unique and enjoyable for our guests,” Karinda said.
“We’re honoured with the outcome, but it doesn't just happen overnight.”
“It’s taken a lot of work, a lot of effort and a lot of determination to get to where we are.”
With the Queensland bronze now added to many other achievements, Oh Deere Farm Stay continues to put the region's rural charm on the tourism map.
Those looking for an award-winning country escape over the Christmas and holiday period can enquire about bookings at Oh Deere Farm Stay, with accommodation and farm tours available all year round, weather permitting.
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2026 Mackay and Whitsunday Life Pty Ltd.
