Island reno prepares for chill seekers
A MILLION-DOLLAR makeover is under way at a popular FNQ island resort in anticipation of the international borders reopening.
At Fitzroy Island Resort, a 45-minute boat ride from Cairns, three generations of owners are showing confidence in tourism and are anticipating a return of visitors by upgrading infrastructure including bathrooms, swimming pool and bar, Wi-Fi, and furniture and fittings.
According to Fitzroy Island Resort general manager Sheena Matthews, the owners – Doug Gamble, his daughter, Tanya, and Tanya’s son, Jason Foy – played a role in plans to modernise the Australianowned resort and its day facilities.
Ms Matthews said strong demand from Queensland holiday-makers over the past two years had strengthened the owners’ belief that it was time to invest in the Great Barrier Reef resort.
“A $500,000 remodelling of the resort’s bathrooms is under way with six already completed in a modern light colour scheme reflecting the sand and sea, and the remainder to be gradually rolled out as bookings allow,” she said.
“The first of the three walkways between the studios and suites has been rebuilt using recycled plastic flooring and a custom-made $200,000 lift accessing the rooms will be installed in February.”
Ms Matthews said work was also starting on refurbishing the beach cabins on the edge of Welcome Bay with remodelled bathrooms, extended balconies, and new furniture and fittings.
“Behind the scenes, we have an improved call centre, the guest Wi-Fi will be boosted by a new satellite being installed in February, and a new engine is on the way for the Fitzroy Flyer (ferry),” she said.
“The Gamble family and the staff are really excited about the $270,000 redevelopment of the pool and pool bar scheduled for May, which will be a highlight of the new facilities.”
Ms Matthews said the improvements followed the opening of the FISH Activities Centre with a purpose-built dive training pool, a soft play area for toddlers, a Kids Club workshop, and new flooring and furniture for Zephyr Restaurant.
“In preparation for the return of weddings and business events, our new venue on the first floor, Ocean View, has been constructed adjacent to the Rainforest Room overlooking the pool area and Welcome Bay, bringing the meetings and events spaces to three in total,” she said.
Fitzroy Island Resort is 100 per cent Australian familyowned and operated.
Ms Matthews said the island was home to the Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre and the Great Barrier Reef’s first ocean-based coral nursery.