Shed takes out top spot
WHEN Neil Erskine and Bel Du Bois opened their own luxurious bush sanctuary a year and a half ago, the couple never thought they would win an award for their 100-year-old renovated property.
But now the pair’s Grain Shed Retreat, which sits on 830 acres of pristine Goomburra landscape, has taken out Australia’s Best Regional Stay.
Selected by a panel of judges who sit on Airbnb’s global Host Advisory Board and based on guest reviews and data, the holiday home is 90 minutes southeast of Toowoomba.
“It was a shock to begin with because Australia has some amazing places, so it’s a bit of a surprise to be told you’re the best in Australia,” Mr Erskine said.
“But after that we felt pretty honoured and periodically have been jumping around, getting excited ever since.”
Together the pair also run an occupational therapy practice and wellness retreat for people living with disabilities, couples and anyone wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
“The whole reason we first started the retreat was because we wanted to provide a nice place for the people we offer therapy services to,” Mr Erskine said.
“We’ve made sure it’s completely wheelchair accessible and is a place for people to relax, reflect and make a plan about what path they want to follow.”
Reflecting the style of an authentic grain shed, the couple have incorporated elements of corrugated iron and timber, set in the countryside of the Australian outback.
The spacious open-plan living area includes two beds and a bathroom and while it is best suited for two people, has catered up to four.
Ms Du Bois is a fully qualified occupational therapist, sleep scientist and nutritionist, while Mr Erskine has a diploma in counselling.
Combining their skills, the pair offers a variety of services from their wellness studio including massages, yoga, counselling and nutrition and sleep advice.
And despite Covid-19 disrupting the travel plans for many, the pandemic has not affected the retreat’s bookings.
Mr Erskine said not only had locals been staying at the property of late, but it was also booked out for months at a time.
To book, visit The Grain Shed on airbnb.com.au.