In the heart of Australia, a farming family embarked on an extraordinary journey. In 1995, Russell and Jenine Drayton made a courageous decision to exchange the familiar rhythms of rural life for the uncharted territory of the tourism industry. With three young children, a beloved budgie, and their loyal sheepdog, Bess, they packed up their world and ventured north to Cairns.

It was a leap of faith, a testament to their entrepreneurial spirit, and a bold step into the unknown. Leaving behind everything they knew was a daunting prospect, but the allure of creating a welcoming space for travelers and building a thriving business fueled their determination.

This pivotal moment marked the beginning of a family legacy rooted in hospitality.

With hearts full of hope and a touch of trepidation, the Draytons arrived in Cairns, a world away from their familiar farm life. Their new venture, a caravan park nestled amidst the lush rainforest, was a bold undertaking. Long days of cleaning, mowing, and manual labor became the norm as they poured their energy into transforming the park into a welcoming oasis for travellers.

Phillip, their eldest son, soon joined the family business, adding youthful enthusiasm to the mix. Together, they cultivated a thriving park, renowned for its tropical gardens, comfortable cabins, and prime location. It was a challenging but rewarding chapter in their lives, as they witnessed their dreams of creating a first-class tourist establishment take shape.

In 2014, the Draytons embarked on a new chapter in their journey, acquiring a 16-acre caravan park in Launceston, Tasmania. Dubbed Treasure Island, the park presented a significant challenge. Outdated facilities, tired infrastructure, and a fading reputation demanded a complete overhaul.

Undeterred, the Draytons embarked on an ambitious redevelopment project. The heart of the transformation lay in replacing the park’s original cabins with modern, architecturally designed villas. This monumental task was spearheaded by Phil Drayton, whose meticulous attention to detail and exceptional building skills have been instrumental in the park’s evolution.

Today, BIG4 Launceston Holiday Park stands as a testament to the Draytons’ vision and dedication. The park boasts a diverse range of accommodation options, including over 100 villas, and offers a plethora of amenities such as heated pools, splash parks, cafes, gyms, and mini-golf.

The Draytons are a hands-on family deeply involved in every aspect of the business. Phil and Bron Drayton, the second generation, are at the helm, overseeing the day-to-day operations and driving the company’s vision. Their parents, Russell and Jenine, continue to be active participants, sharing their wisdom and experience.

This strong family bond and shared passion for hospitality have been instrumental in the success of the Drayton family’s ventures. With a focus on creating exceptional guest experiences, they are committed to building a lasting legacy in the tourism industry.

With a solid foundation built on family, hard work, and a shared passion for hospitality, we are poised for continued growth and success. The recent acquisition of an additional park in Aireys Inlet marks a significant step forward in expanding our hospitality empire. This new venture, alongside our successful Launceston park, positions us as a leading force in the Australian tourism industry.

We remain committed to providing exceptional guest experiences at every park we operate. By combining our talents, resources, and unwavering dedication, we are building a lasting legacy in the hospitality industry.