Many people say they’re just hitting their stride at the age of 40, and the same can be said for one popular Sunshine Coast accommodation star.
Located on absolute beachfront, Gemini Resort in Golden Beach has just hit its 40th anniversary but its stunning views over ever-changing Pumicestone Passage remain timeless.
Commanding an envious position and idyllic tropical setting, the resort has become a favourite for romantic getaways, and it’s a celebrated wedding venue and honeymoon choice.
Many families from around Queensland and interstate are repeat guests, taking advantage of roomy apartments only steps from calm waters and golden sands, next to stretches of tranquil parklands for picnics and barbecues, as well as long, flat strolls along the Coastal Pathway.
For the early part of its history, Gemini’s curvaceous twin towers were lone sentinels watching over Golden Beach – the only high-rise buildings on that stretch of beachfront, glittering on the night sky.
For permanent residents Alan and Jeanette Reddicliffe, it’s been a dream location to retire.
“We chose to live at Gemini because of its location – no road in front of us (no noise from the street), quick access to the beach and the views are spectacular,” said Mr Reddicliffe, who grew up in Brisbane and spent many summer holidays in Caloundra.
“Also, there are many residents who live there and we have quite the social interaction.
“We don’t have to drive far for anything: doctors across the road, restaurants, newsagent, IGA supermarket. We get to walk most places.”
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Mr Reddicliffe said that because it was a little older, Gemini enjoyed larger living spaces than many other similar resorts, and full kitchens in every apartment – all positioned to make the most of that outlook over the Passage.
Visit Sunshine Coast head of industry and trade development Andrew Fairbairn welcomed the significant milestone.
“Gemini Resort has played an important role in the development of tourism in the Caloundra region over the past 40 years,” he said.
“Much has changed over those four decades, but their commitment to providing comfortable, good-value holiday accommodation for families has been recognised, with the resort being recently recognised in the Tourism and Events Queensland Best of Queensland Experience 2022 program.
“We wish the Gemini Resort team a very happy anniversary and a great summer trading season.”
Another resident, Sandra Brewer, said Gemini had come a long way in 40 years.
While the resort had seen many people come and go, a few long-time permanent residents remained and would be on hand to celebrate.
“Someone that has been here since day one is Lorraine Gallagher – our resident gardener,” Mrs Brewer said.
“Lorraine has turned our front garden into quite a showpiece and gets a lot of compliments for all her work.
“Lorraine and her helpers do a wonderful job.
“Gemini has seen a lot of changes over the years and (she is) still continuing to improve our building every day with all our volunteers.”
To mark the 40th anniversary, residents and guests will take part in a morning tea celebration at the resort on December 8 at 10am.
Anyone with an interest in Gemini Resort is welcome to attend. Call 5492 2200.
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