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24 January, 2022

Fitzroy Island Resort gets million-dollar makeover as bounce-back anticipation grows

By Alexandra Coulton

Queensland’s ultra-luxe Fitzroy Island Resort is in the midst of a million-dollar makeover ahead of an anticipated boom as confidence in international and interstate travel begins to return.

Three generations of the owners – Doug Gamble, his daughter Tanya, and her son Jason Foy – have played a role in the family’s plans to modernise the Australian-owned resort and its day facilities.

Fitzroy Island Resort general manager Sheena Matthews said strong demand from Queensland holidaymakers 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 underway 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.

Bathroom remodel, Fitzroy Island Resort (supplied)

“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.

“Work has started on refurbishing the Beach Cabins on the edge of Welcome Bay which will be enhanced by remodelled bathrooms, extended balconies, 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.

“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.

“These improvements follow 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.

First-floor function rooms at Fitzroy Island Resort (supplied)

“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.”

Fitzroy Island Resort is 100 per cent Australian family-owned and operated. Only a 45-minute boat ride from Cairns city, the rainforest island is home to the Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre and the Great Barrier Reef’s first ocean-based coral nursery.

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Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre Doug Gamble Fitzroy Island Resort Gamble Great Barrier Reef resort queensland Sheena Matthews