Club Wyndham Mission Beach has unveiled its multi-million-dollar refurbishment project aimed at strengthening year-round tourism and driving new visitation to the Cassowary Coast.
The resort was a long-time tourist favourite under its previous name, Castaways, and the renewal that has taken place since its purchase by Travel + Leisure Co. is providing tourists with fresh incentive to visit the region. It comes as the Cassowary Regional Council unveils the $19 million Mission Beach Town Centre Revitalisation Project, which includes the installation of underground services to improve amenity, new footpaths and street lighting, enhanced landscaping and upgrades to the nearby Village Green and Porter Promenade.
At the same time, Club Wyndham Mission Beach’s 48 suites have undergone a transformation inspired by the Great Barrier Reef, the Wet Tropics rainforest, and the resort’s absolute beachfront location. A palette of turquoise, coral and white sets the tone, inviting guests to relax and unwind in a tropical setting.
All studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom and loft-style apartments were updated with soft, sandy textures, light timber finishes, fresh paint, and vibrant cushions and ottomans. All furniture and beds are brand new, while kitchenettes were installed in studio rooms. New kitchens were installed in the 1-bedroom Grand apartments, while blackout curtains have also been added in both bedrooms and studios, allowing guests to enjoy uninterrupted rest. The reception area, internal corridors and gym were also repainted and renovated in line with the theme.
“As part of our club model of ownership, Club Wyndham Mission Beach will now be part of a regular cycle of refurbishment – meaning Mission Beach will continue to have fresh, contemporary accommodation in the long-term,” Travel + Leisure Co. senior vice president Warren Cullum said.
“Research shows that our vacation owners spend more on holidays than regular travellers and vacation ownership properties have higher rates of occupancy than traditional hotels and resorts. We are already seeing increased visitation to the property and positive guest reviews reflect overall momentum.”
Club Wyndham Mission Beach joined Club Wyndham South Pacific, the region’s largest vacation club with close to 60,000 owners, when Travel + Leisure Co. purchased the property in May last year. As one of the club’s newest additions, owners have showed strong enthusiasm, with occupancies reaching a consistently high level. Previously, the resort closed during quieter periods of the year.
The average post-stay score recorded since Club Wyndham purchased the property – the most accurate means of measuring guest satisfaction – currently sits at nine out of 10, indicating guests are enjoying their time at the resort. Travel + Leisure Co. is also exploring additional ways to continue to enhance the guest experience.
“Many of our guests have never travelled to Mission Beach before and have already expressed a desire to return,” Club Wyndham Mission Beach general manager Alicea Blanks said. “They love the seclusion the town offers and the friendliness of the locals, and they enjoy the idea they can experience all the attractions without the crowds found at more established destinations.”
Mission Beach boasts the attractions and conveniences of an emerging regional destination, including the closest coastal launch point to the Great Barrier Reef, UNESCO-listed Wet Tropics rainforest, secluded Dunk Island, long stretches of quiet beach, and some of Australia’s best grade three and four whitewater rapids on the nearby Tully River. As travellers increasingly seek destinations offering “quietude” and deeper, slower travel opportunities, Mission Beach is well-positioned to capitalise on its considerable potential.
“The refurbishment of Club Wyndham Mission Beach, one of our most beloved resorts, and its management by an international hospitality provider has been a boon to our tourism industry,” Cassowary Regional Council mayor Teresa Millwood said. “The club network means people across Australia and overseas are hearing about Mission Beach for the first time, driving increased visitation and delivering tangible benefits to local hospitality businesses.”
The project has also had a direct effect on the region’s economy by employing approximately 15 local tradespeople and contractors. It is estimated that the resort will generate a direct and indirect economic contribution of close to $10 million annually, including through staff wages and guest spending.
In line with Travel + Leisure Co. sustainability standards, quality used furniture from the refurbishment was donated to Vinnies in Cairns.
