A renowned eco-tourism destination has been acquired by one of Australia’s biggest regional tourism and accommodation companies.
Habitat Noosa Everglades EcoCamp, an award-winning nature-based location with more than 300 sites at Como, has been purchased by G’day Group, which operates more than 90 holiday parks and resorts under the Discovery Parks and Resorts brand.
G’day Group founder and CEO Grant Wilckens said the retreat is a prized asset, offering accommodation, hospitality and guided nature experiences. It attracts more than 65,000 visitors each year.
“We purchased Habitat Noosa off-market from the previous founders, and have been working with them since mid-last year through a considered, collaborative process to completion,” he told Sunshine Coast News.
“Habitat Noosa is a highly regarded, award-winning asset in one of Queensland’s standout tourism destinations.
“With favourable year-round weather, a strong domestic tourism profile and an accessible drive market located less than two hours from Brisbane, we see significant opportunity to further invest in and enhance the property’s existing assets.”
Habitat Noosa features several accommodation options, including glamping tents, powered and unpowered sites and backpacker cabins.
“The property delivers an elevated blend of accommodation, hospitality and touring experiences in one of Australia’s most iconic regional destinations, exactly the type of premium asset we seek for our Discovery Resorts portfolio,” Mr Wickens said.
The 26-hectare property includes a 200-seat bar and bistro with panoramic views of Lake Cootharaba and an on-site micro-brewery.
The acquisition also includes Everglades Eco Safaris, the sole boat tour operator in the Noosa Everglades, offering guided eco-cruises focused on immersive wildlife and nature experiences.
“As travellers seek more value and experiences as part of their journey, the type of acquisition opportunities we seek today has evolved significantly toward more diversified tourism offerings,” Mr Wickens said.
“The mix of accommodation at Habitat Noosa – spanning glamping tents, powered and unpowered sites, and backpacker-style cabins – captures the interest of everyone from families, backpackers to grey nomads.”
Habitat Noosa was bought for a considerable sum.
“While the purchase price is commercially sensitive, we can confirm this acquisition accounts for close to half of the $110 million G’day Group has invested to date in Queensland, with the state continuing to be an important part of our future investment plans,” Mr Wilckens said.
He said Habitat Noosa’s offerings could be expanded in time.
“At this stage, there will be no changes to the day-to-day operation of the property.”
“The business will continue to be managed by the current staff, and our priority is to integrate the Habitat Noosa with Discovery Parks and G’day Parks online platforms carefully to ensure continuity for guests, staff and partners.
“We’re excited about the significant future development potential at Habitat Noosa. While it’s still early days and there are no immediate development plans to announce for Habitat Noosa, the business gives us flexibility to thoughtfully expand the offering over time in line with guest demand and the long-term vision for the property.”
The acquisition includes a new 60-year lease from the state government and about five hectares of vacant land, providing future development potential in a region with strong domestic and international demand.
There are no interruptions to existing bookings, with upcoming bookings available via the Discovery Parks website.
Do you have an opinion to share? Submit a Letter to the Editor at Sunshine Coast News via news@sunshinecoastnews.com.au. You must include your name and suburb.
