Backpacker resort to sell
A SURFERS Paradise backpacker resort that opened its doors in 1985 is being sold by its retiring founder as a potential tower site.
The Backpackers in Paradise property was started by Ray Appleton, who is now 76.
It is on a three-lot 1524sq m site that has frontages to Peninsular Dve and Leonard Ave and is zoned highdensity residential.
The principal of the Bourke agency,
Jamie Bourke, yesterday said the property was being sold at a time when developers from along the eastern seaboard were clamouring for Gold Coast sites.
“They want smaller sites, such as this one, because they can start and finish projects in the same stage of the property cycle.
“In the case of the backpacker property, there might be scope to enlarge the site by adding an adjoining Peninsular Dve title.”
The resort, which is a stroll from the beach and the heart of Surfers, has 200 rooms, some in budget apartments and double and twin rooms with connecting en suites.
There also are dormitories with from four to 20 beds.
Backpackers in Paradise has a cinema, licensed bar, pool tables, swimming pool and spa, communal kitchen and laundry, full internet, travel desk, courtyard cafe and barbecue, a convenience store, courtesy bus and equipment hire.
Mr Bourke, who is marketing the resort in tandem with Simon Robertson, said the property could provide a buyer with holding income through leasing it or installing a manager and it also could be bought with vacant possession.
Last year another long-term property, the 34-year-old Surfers Paradise Backpacker Resort, on 2109sq m fronting the highway between Surfers and Broadbeach, sold to a Chinese party for $6.36m. The Appleton property will be auctioned on May 26.