FROM the dizzy heights of international big business to the more mundane role of running an out-of-the-way caravan park in Queensland ... that's the life story of Diane Cordaire.

The 55-year-old boss of the tiny Explorers' Haven caravan park on the edge of Eungella National Park west of Mackay made the news recently when fire broke out at her picturesque travellers' retreat.

Diane and other caravanners leapt into action, bravely fighting the flames with buckets, fire extinguishers and garden hoses.

Their efforts prevented the 1979 Viscount caravan from being badly damaged and flames spreading to other RVs and cabins. No one was hurt.

"Everyone came together and the park was an arena of community spirit," Diane told Caravanning News. "It was like everybody had their own job ... they all knew what to do.

"The fire was well and truly out before the emergency services arrived."

She said the blaze involved an old caravan in the corner of the park which had been used by her daughter but was empty at the time.

All 55 campers staying at the park had dashed to help after the alarm was raised.

"One got the gas bottles, one pulled leads out, others got hoses and made sure nobody was inside the caravan," Diane explained.

"Without the community coming together like it did, we would have lost the caravan."

Damage was confined to the kitchen and the flames only burned two holes in the roof.

"It can be fixed," Diane added.

An electrical fault is believed to have caused the outbreak.

While speaking to Diane about the fire, Caravanning News became aware she was no ordinary caravan park operator.

The mother of two told how she had worked for 23 years as a casting director and building up a booming international business photographing young models.

She enjoyed everything that many people regard as important ... a beautiful house, expensive clothes and a lavish lifestyle.

But Diane eventually realised she had nothing when her business and marriage collapsed.

"I lived in an apartment with all the bells and whistles but one day I just gave it all all away and bought a $37 tent," she explained.

"I learned what I was all about rather than what business is all about," she said.

Diane became an ordained deacon and later featured in the book Inspiring Stories of Hope ‒ a copy of which was presented to the Queen.

"I gave away everything that was significant to me and finally found life in the Eungella community, which has worked for me," she said.

"Yes, I once led a very colourful life ... but now I live a very beautiful existence in my caravan park."

After leaving big business behind her, Diane spent three and a half years searching for her ideal place to settle down.

"I have been at Explorers' Haven for 10 months and it's the best spot ... it's beautiful," she said.

Her caravan park attracts a mix of clientele ... from southern grey nomads to international backpackers.

"Word gets around and they are hearing of this caravan park which is set on the edge of a mountain. It's heaven on earth!"