Oh Deere Farmstay, a family-run agricultural retreat owned by Dale and Karinda Anderson, stood out at the recent Mackay Isaac Tourism (MIT) Awards Gala, clinching multiple awards that reflect its popularity and dedication to agri-tourism.
The farmstay took home the Outstanding Contribution by an Individual award for Karinda, as well as two People’s Choice Awards for Favourite Accommodation Provider and Favourite Operator or Experience Provider. These wins highlight the deep connection Oh Deere has built with its guests and community.
Oh Deere Farmstay’s awards haul also included gold for Unique Accommodation and silver for Tour & Transport Operators, making it five wins in total at the MIT Tourism Awards.
For Karinda, who has worked tirelessly to share the importance of farming, this recognition feels especially rewarding.
“It’s a huge step forward from last year, where we came away with a silver. To take out a gold and two people’s choice awards is absolutely incredible,” she said.
Set on 400 acres of working cane fields, Oh Deere offers guests a unique blend of rustic charm and agricultural insight. Accommodation options range from grassy sites for tents and caravans to cozy, farm-style amenities like a communal kitchen and fire pit, creating what Karinda calls a “home away from home” for returning guests.
The Sugar Farm Tours are another major draw, offering visitors a real taste of farming life.
“We have endless stories that capture what it means to be cane farmers,” Karinda shared.
“It’s about our highs, our lows, and our life on the land. I love seeing the excitement in a child’s face when they experience the farm.”
The tour includes a visit to “The Love Shack,” a John Deere Museum filled with vintage memorabilia, a nod to the farm's namesake.
As Karinda explains, “Farming isn’t just about farming. It’s about helping others understand where their food comes from and the work that goes into it.
“My father-in-law used to say, ‘Until we run the cities out of food and water, they’ll never understand what it takes, because farmers will work to feed the nation.’”
With plans to expand community outreach, Karinda hopes to continue bridging the gap between urban and rural life.
“I’d love to work with others in agri-tourism. Our kids don’t know where sugar or milk comes from beyond the supermarket,” she said.
For Oh Deere, this year’s MIT wins celebrate that mission and the farm’s growing impact on the Mackay Isaac tourism landscape.
The Oh Deere Farmstay team celebrates their five MIT Tourism Awards wins, including gold for Unique Accommodation and the People’s Choice Award for Favourite Experience Provider. Photo credit: Mackay Isaac Tourism
People of all ages enjoy the farm tour activities and serenity at Oh Deere
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