IT WAS the gamble that paid off, and now one of Warwick's top motels is continuing its climb.

Four and a half years ago, Gary and Debbie Withers finally made their dream a reality when they purchased the City View Motel.

Whilst living in central Queensland, the couple undertook extensive research, before Mr Withers said they settled on the Rose City.

"We looked at a few places, but we chose Warwick," he said.

"The town had a lot to offer in terms of activities and events, and we saw it as a good opportunity to run our first motel.

"It was a long-term dream we worked towards. It was a well thought out process, and we had a lot of conversations to work out what was right for us."

Mrs Withers said they waited for the right time to pounce and make their move in the market.

"Once the boys finished high school, we took the leap," she said.

"It was a big leap and a huge investment. We used our life savings to buy the business.

"It was our life savings, so we had to make sure it worked, and we haven't regretted it for a day."

The couple were living in Biloela, with Gary bringing a background in managerial work, and Debbie highly experienced in admin.

This combination of qualities served as the perfect mix for running a motel.

"Neither of us mind hard work and we both have high standards," she said.

"Our life experiences suited us to this industry."

Last week, the City View Motel was announced as a winner in the Best Service category for Trip Advisor's Traveller's Choice Awards, something the pair were extremely proud about.

"Since we arrived in 2014, we have gradually been improving our ratings," he said.

"About 12 months ago we became the top-rated motel in Warwick.

"The award is special to us because it comes from feedbacks guests provide.

"This proves to ourselves that we could do it. We had never been in business before, but it shows us we can run a good business and provide a great service.

"It is motivation to keep going, and makes us feel like our work is appreciated.

"We respond to every review we get. We thank them for making the effort, and if there is something we can do about it, we look to improve."