A well-known and worn backpackers hostel in the heart of the Sunshine Coast has been renovated, rebranded and reopened.
No.50 Parker Street at Maroochydore has been given a new lease on life thanks to the efforts of two local families and their supporters.
Mary and Chett Hubbard and Chris and Chaler Hutton saw the potential of the site, formerly known as Suncoast Backpackers Lodge, and took over its management earlier this year.
With the help of other families and community members – and a million-dollar renovation budget – they have transformed it into Palms on Parker.
It’s been touted as a vibrant, clean, secure and welcoming hostel that offers modern and affordable accommodation for travellers from across the globe.
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The Hubbards and Hattons purchased the building in 2015 with the dream to refurbish it.
Following the closure of local backpackers hostels in recent years, they said the time was right to bring their vision to life.
They embarked on an ambitious overhaul that included the installation of new windows and frames, new doors and flooring, comprehensive bathroom and kitchen upgrades and new furniture and bedding.
The outdoor areas were re-envisaged with new fencing, paint, an inground pool and landscaping.
Ms Hubbard said they were determined to turn the place around and make their vision a reality.
“This project was about more than just fixing up a building: it was about reclaiming a space for our community,” she said.
“We wanted to send a message that Maroochydore is a place of opportunity, hope, and connection.
“With the help of incredible local families, we’ve turned this building into something everyone can be proud of.
“Our vision for Palms on Parker was to create a space where travellers could experience the breathtaking beauty of the Sunshine Coast while enjoying modern, welcoming, and social accommodation: a home away from home,” she said.
She said the property had a poor reputation.
“When we took over, we got the full police report and it states that police were called to the address almost once a night, every night,” she said.
“The local neighbours and local shop owners have all commented about how they are all so happy to have new owners and have the place renovated – that it has lifted the area.”
Palms on Parker is located minutes from Maroochydore’s CBD and beaches, and is close to local cafes, shopping hubs and nightspots.
The hostel offers a variety of accommodation options to suit solo travellers, groups or couples: 13 rooms can host up to 47 guests. They include private ensuite rooms and male, female and mixed dormitories. Rooms start at $65 per night.
Guests can enjoy modern communal spaces, including a spacious lounge and breakout areas, a large commercial kitchen, and a pool perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure.
The hostel also features upgraded security features, electronic and interactive access for guests, ensuring a seamless, safe and secure experience.
