STRIVE SHORT-TERM
RENTAL AWARDS 2027
Celebrating the Best of Short-Term Rentals
The STRIVE Short-Term Rental Awards celebrate the people, businesses and organisations helping move the short-term rental industry forward across Australia and New Zealand.
From exceptional guest experiences and creative marketing to outstanding property management, innovation and positive community impact, the Awards recognise those setting new standards, creating meaningful change and inspiring others across our industry.
More than a moment of recognition, the STRIVE Awards bring our community together to celebrate achievement, share success and showcase the people shaping the future of short-term rentals.
Award Categories
The 2027 Awards feature seven categories designed to recognise excellence across different areas of the industry:
How the STRIVE Awards Work
The Awards take place across three stages, giving the wider short-term rental community, industry judges and STRIVE Conference attendees the opportunity to take part.
Stage 1: Nominations (TBC)
Nominations are open to the public, with self-nominations and industry submissions welcome. This is your opportunity to recognise an individual, team or business making a genuine contribution to the short-term rental sector.
Following the nomination period, entries will be reviewed by STRIVE and a shortlist will be selected for each category.
Stage 2: Public Voting (TBC)
Shortlisted nominees will move to public voting, giving the industry the opportunity to support the people and businesses they believe deserve recognition.
Public voting will determine the top three finalists in each category, who will progress to the final stage of the Awards.
Stage 3: Finalist Presentations, Industry Judging & Live STRIVE Vote (TBC)
The top three finalists in each category will be invited to submit a short video presentation showcasing their work, achievements and impact.
The final result will be determined by:
50% Industry Judging Panel
50% Live Vote from STRIVE Conference Attendees
This final stage brings the Awards directly into the STRIVE experience, giving attendees the opportunity to discover the stories behind our finalists and have a voice in recognising excellence across the industry.
Celebrate With Us at STRIVE
The STRIVE Awards are about more than winning a trophy. They are an opportunity to recognise great work, discover new ideas, celebrate progress and connect with the people helping our industry STRIVE to THRIVE.
Whether you nominate someone making an impact, support your favourites during public voting, become a finalist or join us at STRIVE to take part in the live vote, there are plenty of ways to get involved.
The winners will be celebrated live as part of STRIVE 2027.
Nominate. Vote. Celebrate. Connect.
STRIVE to THRIVE.
The STRIVE Short-Term Rental Awards 2027 celebrate the people, businesses and organisations making a meaningful impact across the short-term rental industry in Australia and New Zealand.
The Awards recognise excellence across guest experience, property management, marketing, supplier innovation, sustainability, community contribution and emerging leadership. They shine a spotlight on those raising standards, introducing fresh ideas and helping shape a stronger future for our industry.
More than an awards presentation, the STRIVE Awards are an opportunity for the short-term rental community to come together, celebrate achievement, share ideas and recognise the work happening across the sector.
As part of the wider STRIVE experience, the Awards create another valuable reason for industry professionals to connect, learn from one another and celebrate the people helping our community STRIVE to THRIVE.
Award Categories
⭐ Best Guest Experience Award
⭐ Best Marketing Award
⭐ Best Property Manager Award
⭐ Best Supplier Award
⭐ Sustainability & Community Impact Award
⭐ Rising Star Award
⭐ Online Travel Agent of the Year
Alex Ormerod is the Managing Director and Co-Founder of Luxico, Australia’s leading ‘home hotel’ provider known for luxury short-stay experiences and personalised concierge service. With deep expertise in hospitality, branding and guest experience, Alex brings insight, energy and warmth to the stage as MC for the STRIVE Awards 2026, guiding the celebration of excellence in accommodation and short-term rentals.
Jack Ansett is an Auckland-based stand-up comedian who’s been entertaining audiences since the age of 15, becoming a national Raw Comedy Quest finalist at just 16. Now a regular at The Classic Comedy Club, Jack has been nominated for the Billy T Award and appeared on 7 Days, Last Laughs, Guy Montgomery’s Guy-Mont Spelling Bee, and Taskmaster NZ. He’ll bring sharp wit and high-energy laughs to STRIVE Auckland 2026.
CEO, Million Dollar Host
Julie George is a global STR leader, bestselling author, and founder of Million Dollar Host. She scaled her Airbnb business to 130 properties and $8M in under three years before successfully exiting. Today, she mentors hosts worldwide through her top-ranked mastermind, speaks on international stages, and advises leading hospitality tech companies, empowering operators to scale with confidence.
CEO, Mountain Laurel Chalets
Tom Goodwin is the CEO of Mountain Laurel Chalets, a family-owned vacation rental company serving Gatlinburg for over 52 years. Since 2012, he has upheld its legacy, ensuring long-term success in a competitive market. With expertise in business strategy, branding, and operations, Tom enhances profitability for homeowners while delivering exceptional guest experiences. A problem-solver at heart, he is passionate about revitalizing businesses, communities, and people to maximize their potential.
CEO & Founder, L’Abode Accommodation
Lisa Peterson is the Founder & CEO of L’Abode Accommodation, one of Australia’s leading luxury property management brands. Starting from her bedroom after moving from New Zealand, she identified a need for quality short-term stays and built a trusted, guest-focused company. Guided by integrity, innovation, and care, Lisa is a recognised industry leader dedicated to creating exceptional experiences and nurturing meaningful partnerships.
Founder & CEO, Casago
Steve Schwab is the Founder & CEO of Casago, a leading vacation rental and property management company. With decades of industry experience, he has built Casago into a trusted brand operating across the U.S. and Mexico. A visionary leader, Steve focuses on innovation, owner success, and exceptional guest experiences. His expertise in scaling businesses and fostering community-driven hospitality has positioned Casago as a top choice for property owners and travellers alike.
Founder, Launched Host
I’m Kim Fitzpatrick, Founder of Launched Host. A multi-state owner, investor, and Superhost, I transitioned from a 20-year career as a PE teacher into the short-term rental industry, where I discovered a growing need for expert property setup. That insight led to Launched Host. We partner with designers and owners to professionally stage and launch STR properties in just 7 days, helping investors accelerate cash flow and start their hosting journey with confidence and impact.
Founder & CEO, Casiola Vacation Homes
Dennis Goedheid is the Founder & CEO of Casiola Vacation Homes, a fast-growing vacation rental brand known for its vibrant properties and exceptional guest experiences. With a passion for hospitality and innovation, Dennis has expanded Casiola across multiple destinations, redefining vacation rentals with a seamless blend of technology and personalised service. His leadership continues to drive the brand’s success, setting new standards in the short-term rental industry.
Founder & CEO, Holiday Rental Specialists
Rebecca Cribbin is the Founder & CEO of Holiday Rental Specialists, a leader in short-term rental management. With over a decade of experience, she specialises in maximising property returns while delivering exceptional guest experiences. Passionate about industry innovation, Rebecca empowers property owners with expert strategies and insights. Her commitment to excellence and growth has positioned her as a trusted voice in the short-term rental space.
CEO & Co Founder, AJL Atelier
Simon Lehmann is CEO and Co-Founder of AJL Atelier and a global executive leader with 35+ years’ experience guiding complex organisations through transition, transformation, and growth. He has served as CEO, President, and Operating Partner across travel tech, hospitality, aviation, and logistics, leading multi-country teams with full P&L responsibility. Simon partners with private equity firms, boards, and founders on CEO succession, turnaround, M&A integration, and value creation. He also hosts RedShoes Talks, exploring leadership and scale.
Executive Director, VRNation
Heidi Henriksen is the Executive Director of VRNation (formerly NWVRP) and a respected leader in the short-term rental industry. With 25 years of experience spanning host, property manager, OTA founder and nonprofit executive, she brings a rare blend of operational insight and strategic vision. Heidi has pioneered luxury rental management, scaled innovative platforms and now champions industry standards, advocacy and collaboration, helping shape the future of travel and professional holiday rental management.
Founder & CEO, Hostaway
Marcus Rader is the Founder & CEO of Hostaway, a leading property management platform empowering short-term rental operators worldwide. An entrepreneur since age 11, Marcus brings over a decade of experience in online marketing, growth, and product development across fast-scaling startups. Passionate about the sharing economy, he focuses on helping hosts streamline operations, automate marketing and sales, and build sustainable, tech-driven businesses through innovation and strong industry connections.
Co-CEO & Co-Founder, MadeComfy
Sabrina Schwaighofer is Co-Founder and Co-CEO of MadeComfy, a category-defining short-term rental management company she has scaled over the past decade. With a background in blue-chip FMCG brands including Colgate-Palmolive and Kellogg’s, she brings deep expertise in brand strategy, commercial growth and team leadership. A CPA and MBA, Sabrina combines strategic clarity, financial discipline and human-centred leadership to build high-performance teams, drive sustainable growth and create businesses designed to scale and last.
Founder, Boostly
Mark Simpson, Founder of Boostly, is on a mission to help one million hospitality owners boost direct bookings, cut commission costs, and maximize profits. Named a "Top 20 Most Influential" in vacation rentals, he's a best-selling author, keynote speaker, and industry leader. Boostly, an award-winning website agency and training platform, has helped property managers generate £50M+ in direct bookings. Follow him for expert insights, free resources, and a proven path to OTA independence.
Founder & CEO, The STR Sisterhood & Kozy Getaways
Stacey St. John is a short-term rental investor, mentor, and Founder of STR Sisterhood, a global community of 55,000+ women. What began as one investment property grew into a multi-7-figure portfolio and movement empowering women to build wealth and freedom through STRs. She also leads Kozy Getaways, a boutique, tech-driven property management firm delivering hands-free, high-performance hosting. Stacey has helped 2,320+ women launch, scale, and succeed through coaching, courses, live events, and consulting.
CEO & Co-Founder, Villa Finder
Daniel Rouquette is the CEO and Co-Founder of Villa Finder, Asia’s leading curator of villa experiences. A data-driven leader and strong advocate for responsible tourism, he blends high-touch service with smart technology to elevate both guest and team experiences. Under his guidance, Villa Finder has expanded across Asia and achieved B Corp certification, reflecting his commitment to sustainability and quality.
Owner, Publisher and Editor, Accomnews
Co-Owner at Multimedia Pty Ltd, Mandy Clarke has led the company to prominence as a B2B publisher in Australia and New Zealand's accommodation and education sectors. With an engaging editorial style, Mandy drives industry impact through AccomNews, Resort News, School News, and AccomProperties.
Founder & CEO, Vintory
Brooke Pfautz is the Founder & CEO of Vintory, the only growth platform dedicated to helping vacation rental managers scale their inventory. A seasoned entrepreneur with deep industry expertise, he built and sold a successful vacation rental company before launching Vintory. Brooke now leverages cutting-edge technology and data-driven strategies to help property managers accelerate growth, streamline acquisition, and achieve long-term success in the competitive short-term rental market.
CEO & Chief Strategist, Annie & Co.
Annie Holcombe brings over 30 years of hospitality experience as CEO and Chief STRategist at Annie & Co. Solutions. She delivers expert consultancy to short-term and vacation rental property managers, specialising in owner acquisition, retention, and distribution strategy. Through fractional leadership, marketing insight, and operational expertise, Annie helps businesses strengthen performance, elevate service standards, and drive sustainable, long-term growth.
CEO & Founder, BNB Made Easy
Tim Mortimer is the Founder & CEO of BNB Made Easy, a professional short-term rental management company operating across regional Australia. Launched in 2018 from his garage, the business has grown into a multi-market hospitality brand managing hundreds of properties. With a background spanning education, farming, wine, and sport, Tim focuses on values-led growth, strong systems, and people development. He is passionate about boutique hospitality at scale, locally empowered teams, and using technology to support great guest experiences, not replace them.
General Manager, Australia & New Zealand Short Term Rental Association (ASTRA)
Sarah Workman is the General Manager of ASTRA, leading the association’s strategic direction and operational excellence across Australia and New Zealand. She works closely with members, the board, and industry stakeholders to deliver advocacy, events, and professional development that drive real business impact. Passionate about strengthening the short-term rental sector, Sarah positions ASTRA as the leading voice for operators and policy engagement across the region.
Co-Founder & Senior VP of Partnerships, Truvi
Leo Walton is a Co-founder & Senior VP of Partnerships at Truvi (Previously Superhog), a global trust platform for short-term rentals that combines guest screening, risk protection, and embedded insurance to help hosts and operators grow with confidence. With deep experience from his early years running supply at onefinestay, Leo brings practical insight into guest trust, risk management, and building direct booking success in the STR industry. He’s a sought-after speaker on guest screening, operational excellence, and future-ready rental strategies.
Owner & Founder, Tracey Northcott Consulting
Tracey Northcott is the CEO & Founder of Tracey Northcott Consulting and a guest experience specialist for short-term rentals. A writer, speaker, mentor, and author, she helps hosts become wholehearted hospitality leaders, attracting aligned, high-quality guests while avoiding burnout. Through practical strategies and mindset shifts, Tracey empowers hosts to elevate service, build profitable businesses they love, and create memorable stays that inspire loyalty, referrals, and repeat bookings.
Director of Audio and Video Strategy, Skift
Owner, The Cohost Company
Patryk Swietek is an operator, author, and speaker who has built one of the most recognized short-term rental businesses in Southern California. As co-owner of The Cohost Company alongside Josh Rudin, he manages ~150 luxury properties and leads the largest STR management company in the Joshua Tree area. Patryk grew The Cohost Company to become the market leader in under three years, combining organic growth with four strategic cohosting acquisitions. Beyond operations, Patryk teaches hosts and investors how to scale their short-term rental businesses. He's the author of The Wealthy Airbnb Superhost, hosts The STR Growth Show podcast, runs coaching programs, and shares his knowledge on social media. He speaks internationally on STR growth, acquisitions, and scaling, and his company's work has been featured on Netflix and in the Wall Street Journal, LA Times, and Condé Nast.
CEO, Sykes Cottages and Forge Holiday Group
Graham Donoghue is CEO of Sykes Holiday Cottages and Forge Holiday Group and newly appointed Chair of the STAA. A highly respected leader in the short-term rental sector, Graham brings extensive experience in scaling travel businesses and shaping industry strategy. As a UKSTAA board member, he represents property managers and actively works to influence UK policy, helping guide the future of short-term rental travel and tourism.
Founder, Ex-Weekenda
Since saying goodbye to Corporate Australia after 21 years, Weekenda is thriving and growing year on year. We had spent 10 years quietly building this up from a single cabin in Kangaroo Valley to now managing over 170 properties in the Hunter Valley Vineyards, Central Coast, Lake Macquarie, and Newcastle.
Owner & CEO, Family Time Vacation Rentals
Matthew Tesdall is the Owner & CEO of Family Time Vacation Rentals, offering premium accommodations across Utah, Idaho, and Central Oregon. With properties near Zion, Bryce Canyon, and top ski resorts, his company caters to families and large groups. A strategic leader with $70M in production, Matthew excels in business development, B2B marketing, and negotiations. His results-driven approach and passion for hospitality create unforgettable experiences in some of the nation’s most stunning destinations.
CEO, Sykes Cottages and Forge Holiday Group
Graham Donoghue is CEO of Sykes Holiday Cottages and Forge Holiday Group and newly appointed Chair of the STAA. A highly respected leader in the short-term rental sector, Graham brings extensive experience in scaling travel businesses and shaping industry strategy. As a UKSTAA board member, he represents property managers and actively works to influence UK policy, helping guide the future of short-term rental travel and tourism.
CEO, Mountain Laurel Chalets
Tom Goodwin is the CEO of Mountain Laurel Chalets, a family-owned vacation rental company serving Gatlinburg for over 52 years. Since 2012, he has upheld its legacy, ensuring long-term success in a competitive market. With expertise in business strategy, branding, and operations, Tom enhances profitability for homeowners while delivering exceptional guest experiences. A problem-solver at heart, he is passionate about revitalizing businesses, communities, and people to maximize their potential.
The Top Finalists are: Property Mums, Alpine Valley Getaways, Supercalla Private Properties
This award recognises an individual or organisation in the short-term rental industry that consistently delivers outstanding guest experiences. It celebrates those who go above and beyond to anticipate guest needs, create memorable stays, and set new benchmarks for service excellence and hospitality within the sector.
The Top Finalists are: Daylesford Country Retreats, Homhero, Supercalla Private Properties
This category recognises the marketing campaign, initiative, or brand within the short-term rental industry that has most effectively and creatively made an impact. It celebrates those who have driven significant brand awareness and business growth through innovative social media strategies, persuasive storytelling, or standout marketing creativity.
The Top Finalists are: Belle Property Escapes, Ready Set Stay, Hometime, Ocean Edge Holiday Rentals
Recognising property management companies that have made a measurable impact through exceptional service to both guests and property owners. This award celebrates those who stand out for their innovation, profitability, team culture, and operational excellence in managing short-term rentals.
The Top Finalists are: PriceLabs, Hospitable, Homhero, Breezeway
This category acknowledges a product or service provider that has made a substantial impact on the short-term rental sector through innovation. Eligible entries include pioneering software, automation solutions, support services, and technology products that enhance efficiency, sustainability, or the guest experience.
The Top Finalists are: Alpine Valley Getaways, Tiny Stays, Whizz Technologies
This award recognises a company, organisation, or initiative within the short-term rental industry that demonstrates exceptional commitment to sustainability and positive community impact. It celebrates those who go beyond profit to operate responsibly — reducing environmental impact, supporting local economies, and creating lasting value for guests, hosts, and their communities.
The Top Finalists are: The FAM, Hello Queenstown, Lachlan Bakes – Homhero, Erin Jasch – Belle Property
Dedicated to an emerging leader or individual, or company making a significant mark on the short-term rental industry. This award shines a light on those redefining the sector through bold innovation, creative leadership, or exceptional execution, setting the tone for the next generation of industry trailblasers.
To qualify, finalists should have been active in the short-term rental industry for less than three years and demonstrate measurable progress, innovation, and influence within that time. This category celebrates fresh voices and rising talent who are shaping the future of the industry.
The Top Finalists are: Airbnb, Expedia Group – Stayz
Celebrating People’s Choice online travel agency that has most successfully supported hosts while maintaining guest satisfaction. This award highlights OTAs that foster strong partnerships with hosts, provide fair terms, and offer tools or programmes that help hosts thrive.
Alpine Valley Getaways, Bundeena Holidays, Canbnb, Cleary & Co., Guest Realty, L’Abode Accommodation, Langbrook Farm, Luxe Property Management Services, Maisonnets, Property Mums, Ready Set Stay, Supercalla Private Properties, The Oaks Lilydale, Wildnest
Alloggio, Daylesford Country Retreats, Discover Stradbroke, Guest Realty, Homhero, Luxico, Ready Set Stay, Supercalla Private Properties, The Apartment Service
Belle Property Escapes, Canbnb, Guest Realty, Holiday Rental Specialists, Hometime, Let Go, Luxe Property Management Services, Maisonnets, Mc Property Plus, Next Level Asset Management, Ocean Edge Holiday Rentals, Ogstays, Property Mums, Ready Set Stay, Release NZ, Short & Long Stays, Soulfull Stayz
Breezeway, EmailCollect, Escapia, Good to Book, GuestPoint Motelier, Guesty, Heads on Pillows, Home Remedy, Homhero, Hospitable, Hostaway, Hostfully, ICND, Nuvho, Pacho, PriceLabs, Resly, RMS, RoomPriceGenie, SnapSnapSnap (powered by BoxBrownie), Switch Hotel Solutions, Tara Home Consulting Ltd, Your.Rentals
Alpine Valley Getaways, Justin Ford, Tiny Stays, Villa Finder, Whizz Technologies
Anna Mildon (Guest Realty), AutoRank, Broadbeach Luxury Stays, Cristiana Carpini, Deepanshu Nihalani, Discover Freedom, DownSouth Holiday Homes, Erin Jasch, Ethan Brown, Hello Queenstown, Homhero, James Avramides (Getawayz NSW), KeyNest, L’Abode Accommodation, Lively Properties, Oasis Stay, Property Mums, Sarah Clark (Canbnb), The FAM, Wildnest
Airbnb, Booking.com, Riparide, Stayz / Vrbo (Expedia Group)
The STRIVE Awards are shaped by the people who make this industry what it is. Get involved by nominating someone making a difference, supporting your favourites during public voting, sharing the Awards with your network, or joining us at STRIVE to celebrate the finalists and winners. It's more than recognition. It's a chance to spotlight great work, celebrate fresh ideas and bring our industry together around the people helping short-term rentals STRIVE to THRIVE.
