Pip Miller PR

MEDIA RELEASE                                          Thursday 12 March 2009

 SMALL GROUPS GIVEN  ‘FLAMES’  EXCLUSIVITY  FOR LIMITED TIME

Flames of the Forest: Small groups can now celebrate an evening of pure magic in tropical rainforest….beneath the stars and a truly romantic, candlelit marquee.

Tropical North Queensland. For a limited time, Flames of the Forest has great news for small groups with the opportunity to enjoy exclusive use of its magical rainforest setting with dinner and beverages from just $125 per person.

Managing Director of Flames of the Forest, Amelia Hannaford said smaller groups are finding it increasingly difficult to secure exclusive events.  “This is largely down to high costs.  With our own fairytale pocket of rainforest and talent for creating spellbinding events, we have come up with the perfect solution and are pleased to announce this special offer available to groups between 20 and 80.  For just $125 per person, guests will receive exclusive use of our rainforest setting, a three course dinner and beverages,” she said.

To find out more, contact Flames of the Forest on tel: 07 4099 3144 or email: info@flamesoftheforest.com.au

Background Information: New Venue

After opening in 2003, Flames of the Forest has achieved much acclaim, establishing itself as one of Tropical North Queensland’s most spectacular dining experiences.  And now, in response to its success, Flames of the Forest is on the move to a new and bigger rainforest location…..just down the road!

Flames of the Forest is the inspiration of Amelia and Nick Hannaford of Hannaford’s Events that has been hand-making original and beautiful events for the past 15 years in Australia and Asia-Pacific. Clients include multi-national corporations, incentive organizers, brand-marketers, rockstars, royalty and now….lovers set to tie-the-knot.

After discovering their first fairytale pocket of forest (some five years before Flames of the Forest was born), the idea to create a night time event came quickly according to Amelia. Since then, Flames of the Forest was launched and went on to forge an enviable reputation in its own right as a world-class attraction. 

Amelia says Flames’ new rainforest venue is even more spectacular than the previous one and with the new infrastructure on site enables their team to accommodate groups of up to 900 guests for full sit down events.

Flames of the Forest is open to the public three nights a week presenting an evening set amid hundreds of candles and flames featuring a traditional and authentic Aboriginal performance with story telling, music and song from local brothers who spent their childhoods in the valley.

Combined with a magnificent six course plattered banquet dinner, guests have the opportunity to enjoy a magical and memorable evening while meeting new people amid the towering grandeur of the forest at night.

Flames of the Forest has won awards for its innovation and food and recently was listed in Australian Traveller Magazine as one of the ‘Top 100 Things to do in Australia….that you’ve never heard of!’.

In addition to opening to the public Flames of the Forest is an enchanting and dramatic venue for group entertaining. From weddings to corporate groups to car launches, every event is different but features the same stunning rainforest setting as its backdrop. Recent clients have included Toyota, which featured Flames of the Forest (complete with a performance by Leo Sayer) as the finale event of its new Landcruiser launch.

Amelia says the outdoor setting has many distinct advantages to more traditional indoor ones.

“For example, you can have fireworks going off during dinner without leaving your seat!”

She adds, “Added to that, there are no noise restrictions allowing guests to party on into the small hours.

“With it’s expanded infrastructure and capacity, Flames of the Forest’s new venue is a significant addition to the business tourism facilities available in Tropical North Queensland and we hope it’s exclusive nature and beauty will attract groups to the area – and as such, a venue of this type with on site infrastructure is not available elsewhere in the country,” she said.

Just 15 minutes from Port Douglas, 40 minutes from Palm Cove and one hour from Cairns, Flames of the Forest is a world away from the everyday.

For information contact: Tel: 61 7 4099 3966 email: info@flamesoftheforest.com.au or www.flamesoftheforest.com.au

ends

Contact: Amelia Hannaford, Flames of the Forest Tel: 61 7 4099 3966

    Mob: 0407 656 293  Email: Amelia@hannafords.com.au

Issued by: Pip Miller PR  Tel: 61 7 4032 4400  Mob: 0419 681543 

                  Email: pip@pipmillerpr.com.au

MEDIA RELEASE                                                    26 March 2009

SPECIAL OCCASION DINING REDEFINED IN CANDLELIT RAINFOREST VENUE

Tucked away in a fairytale pocket of rainforest and lit to perfection with hundreds of candles and romantic chandeliers is the award-winning Flames of the Forest venue that from April this year will be open to the general public when it plays host to Saturday evening dining

Destined to redefine tropical north Queensland’s dining scene, Flames of the Forest’s Saturday evenings in the rainforest will provide guests with a ravishing environment to enjoy intimate celebrations, small wedding receptions and special occasions.  Guests will indulge in an exquisite three course menu for just $85 per person comprising a choice of entrée, main and dessert dishes created with love from the region’s freshest and best quality ingredients. 

Since 2003, Flames of the Forest has gained an international reputation for its rainforest experience featuring a local Aboriginal cultural performance in a spectacular candlelit setting that has operated, and will continue to do so, three nights a week.  And soon, with the advent of its Saturday dining concept, will become a memorable experience for everyone to enjoy.

Flames of the Forest’s managing director, Amelia Hannaford said in August 2008 the operation relocated to a stunning new rainforest venue that provided greater scope for staging tailor-made events.  “With more space and infrastructure at our fingertips we soon realised that the drama of our rainforest venue could be utilised as an amazing setting for dinner.”

Saturday evening dining will commence on Saturday, 11^th April 09.  The cost per person is $85.00 for a special three course menu. Full wine list and transfers also available. Bookings essential on Tel: 07 40 993 144.  For further information:  www.flamesoftheforest.com.au

Background Information: New Venue

After opening in 2003, Flames of the Forest has achieved much acclaim, establishing itself as one of Tropical North Queensland’s most spectacular dining experiences.  And now, in response to its success, Flames of the Forest is on the move to a new and bigger rainforest location…..just down the road!

Flames of the Forest is the inspiration of Amelia and Nick Hannaford of Hannaford’s Events that has been hand-making original and beautiful events for the past 15 years in Australia and Asia-Pacific. Clients include multi-national corporations, incentive organizers, brand-marketers, rockstars, royalty and now….lovers set to tie-the-knot.

After discovering their first fairytale pocket of forest (some five years before Flames of the Forest was born), the idea to create a night time event came quickly according to Amelia. Since then, Flames of the Forest was launched and went on to forge an enviable reputation in its own right as a world-class attraction. 

Amelia says Flames’ new rainforest venue is even more spectacular than the previous one and with the new infrastructure on site enables their team to accommodate groups of up to 900 guests for full sit down events.

Flames of the Forest is open to the public three nights a week presenting an evening set amid hundreds of candles and flames featuring a traditional and authentic Aboriginal performance with story telling, music and song from local brothers who spent their childhoods in the valley.

Combined with a magnificent six course plattered banquet dinner, guests have the opportunity to enjoy a magical and memorable evening while meeting new people amid the towering grandeur of the forest at night.

Flames of the Forest has won awards for its innovation and food and recently was listed in Australian Traveller Magazine as one of the ‘Top 100 Things to do in Australia….that you’ve never heard of!’.

In addition to opening to the public Flames of the Forest is an enchanting and dramatic venue for group entertaining. From weddings to corporate groups to car launches, every event is different but features the same stunning rainforest setting as its backdrop. Recent clients have included Toyota, which featured Flames of the Forest (complete with a performance by Leo Sayer) as the finale event of its new Landcruiser launch.

Amelia says the outdoor setting has many distinct advantages to more traditional indoor ones.

“For example, you can have fireworks going off during dinner without leaving your seat!”

She adds, “Added to that, there are no noise restrictions allowing guests to party on into the small hours.

“With it’s expanded infrastructure and capacity, Flames of the Forest’s new venue is a significant addition to the business tourism facilities available in Tropical North Queensland and we hope it’s exclusive nature and beauty will attract groups to the area – and as such, a venue of this type with on site infrastructure is not available elsewhere in the country,” she said.

Just 15 minutes from Port Douglas, 40 minutes from Palm Cove and one hour from Cairns, Flames of the Forest is a world away from the everyday.

For information contact: Tel: 61 7 4099 3966 email: info@flamesoftheforest.com.au or www.flamesoftheforest.com.au

ends

Contact: Amelia Hannaford, Flames of the Forest Tel: 61 7 4099 3966

    Mob: 0407 656 293  Email: Amelia@hannafords.com.au

Issued by: Pip Miller PR  Tel: 61 7 4032 4400  Mob: 0419 681543 

                  Email: pip@pipmillerpr.com.au

Publicity

Pip Miller PR

Telephone: 0419 681543

Email: pip@pipmillerpr.com.au

Internet: www.rydges.com/castaways

MEDIA INFORMATION                                                                    March 09

NEW GENERAL MANAGER FOR CASTAWAYS AT MISSION BEACH

Simon White, Area General Manager of Rydges Hotels and Resorts TNQ is pleased to announce the appointment of Scott Wilkinson as General Manager of award-winning Castaways at Mission Beach (managed by Rydges Hotels and Resorts).

Mr Wilkinson seized the opportunity to return to Tropical North Queensland after almost two years working in New Zealand as the General Manager of Peppers Resorts in Christchurch and Taupo.

With a strong background in managing rebranded properties, Mr Wilkinson joins Castaways at Mission Beach as it gears up for its first tourist season following the completion of a $1 million upgrade to its 49-room accommodation, restaurant and guest amenities. In recent months the resort has also unveiled a state-of-the-art conference facility, Palms, a new fitness centre and Drift Spa.

Craig Wilkinson, General Manager, Castaways Resort and Spa at Mission Beach

“I’m delighted to be back in the tropics and looking forward to life at picturesque Mission Beach. The extensive redevelopment at award-winning Castaways means we have an exciting product which I am keen to take from strength to strength,” Mr Wilkinson said.

He joined the Peppers group in 2001, working his way from Assistant Manager to General Manager at Peppers Links Resort at Port Douglas. When parent company the Stella Hospitality Group was created in 2005, the property was rebranded as Mantra Links Resort for the last 18 months of his managership.

For more information about Castaways on Mission Beach, or to make a booking, visit www.rydges.com/castaways, or call the resort direct on (+61) 07 4068 7444 or central reservations within Australia on 1300 857 922.

ENDS

For media inquiries contact:

Scott Wilkinson

General Manager

Castaways on Mission Beach

DD:   61 7 4068 7444, 

E: scott_wilkinson@rydges.com

 neo-photo-catalyst-insect-trap-mar-09-pr

Media Information                                 Monday 23 March 2009

SHEDDING LIGHT ON THE FIGHT AGAINST DENGUE

With far north Queensland’s community experiencing its worst ever dengue epidemic, mosquito control and disease prevention is forefront.  In what can only be described as timely, is the Australia wide launch this week of an innovative, highly effective insect trap imported and distributed by Cairns based business, The Omega Group.

The Omega Group’s Managing Director, Dennis Crossley has extensive overseas manufacturing and business contacts and    has developed a portfolio of business innovations that the company imports and distributes throughout Australia.

It was on a business mission to China a year ago that Mr Crossley discovered the Neo Photo-Catalyst Insect Trap and while, the region was yet to experience its current dengue outbreak, was well aware of the dangers of mosquito born diseases and discomfort caused by mosquitoes, sandflies and midges.

The Neo-Photo Catalyst Insect Trap will hit the shelves of Australia’s leading  hardware and retail stores this week after an exhaustive 12 month re-design and testing phase in which the  ‘trap’ was successfully re-engineered to   meet all criteria to comply with Australian standards.

The Neo-Photo Catalyst Insect Trap represents new technology in Australia.  Insects – even in the dark – can easily locate where a person is by sensing the carbon dioxide and heat they emit. Insects also react with extreme sensitivity when near ultraviolet rays and carbon dioxide.  By emulating these conditions, the trap can decoy and capture insects in daylight or dark, and outdoors or indoors.

According to Mr Crossley, the free-standing trap is highly effective in keeping mosquitoes, sand flies, midges, moths and other insects at bay in a domestic and commercial environment.  He cites many benefits that include low running costs (equivalent of two cents per day), no ugly zapping noises, no attracting Gecko’s under a traditional “zapper”, low noise emissions, scientific testing and  environmental safety.  Add to these, simultaneous purification of air and neutralization of odours.  It also has an antibiotic effect by killing bacteria and suppressing its growth by the strong oxidization and decomposition capacity of the unit.

The upper part of the unit features a Titanium Dioxide plate which reflects the ultraviolet light emitted by the trap.  The combination of the light with the Titanium Dioxide plate  promotes the process of photo catalysis. This in turn, produces heat and Carbon Dioxide emulating a human being and luring insects into the trap.  Alsowhen small amounts of sunlight or ultraviolet rays and organic matter are combined on the surface of the Titanium Dioxide plate, it purifies the air of unpleasant odours by sterilizing sundry bacteria through decomposition – thus cleansing the area.

From Left:         Small Unit, perfect for bedrooms        Large Unit for all-round protection

There are two portable traps available that cover and protect areas of 120 square metres and 60 square metres respectively. The units retail at $99.95 and $69.95

Mr Crossley says that in an ideal domestic scenario the larger units would be situated outside at either end of the building or property (in a darkened, patio area) with the smaller units used inside the house – for instance, underneath a child’s bed, desk or dining table. 

He is also passionate about the environmental friendliness of the unit pointing out there is no spraying of harmful chemicals or greenhouse gas propellants in to the atmosphere.

“I am wary of traditional high voltage zappers which simply cause the mosquito to explode on impact, atomizing and spraying blood and intestines in to the atmosphere to be breathed back in by adults, children and pets,” he said.

While the tropical north comes to grips with its fight against dengue, scientists and health experts are predicting the current outbreak is only just beginning with the worst case scenario suggesting it will last two years while spreading through communities across the length and breadth of Australia. Other mosquito borne diseases, experts are concerned about are Ross River Fever, Murray Valley Encephalitis and Barmah  Established in 1980, The Omega Group (NQ) has a diverse portfolio of businesses including Property, Product Import, Distribution & Marketing, Retail as well as Financial and Education Services.

With its base in Cairns, Far North Queensland, it has extensive contacts throughout S.E. Asia, China and Oceania.

ends

For further enquiries, please contact Rod Wilson, Business Development, The Omega Group at rod@theomegagroup.com.au or Ph: +61 7 4044 1177 | Fax: +61 7 4044 1122
Issued by: Pip Miller PR           Tel: 0419 681543      E: pip@pipmillerpr.com.au

MEDIA RELEASE                                       Thursday 19 March 2009

DRIFT SPA A FIRST FOR MISSION BEACH

While cassowaries tuck-in to the tropic’s exotic fruit known as quandongs in the Mission Beach rainforest, at the beach nearby, the therapists at Drift Spa are using it on clients as the key ingredient in a conditioning hair treatment.

Adding a new and holistic dimension to guest services and activities available in Mission Beach, Drift Spa opened last month at Castaways Resort and Spa.  In another first, it is the only beachfront spa facility in Tropical North Queensland.

The Dreaming, Drift’s signature three-and-a-half-hour treatment, incorporates a salt exfoliation, mud wrap, full massage (including hands, feet and face) and exotic hair mask made from the oil of the quandong kernel.

The luxurious treatment embodies the philosophy of Drift Spa to soothe the body, mind and soul of clients with Australia’s Aboriginal-inspired Li’Tya products and treatments.

Right on the edge of the white sands of spectacular Mission Beach, Drift Spa at Castaways Resort and Spa is the ultimate location for a massage or a body wrap as its absolute beachfront position gives an uninterrupted view of Dunk Island and the Coral Sea.

Serene state-of-the-art treatment rooms offer air-conditioned comfort, or drift off on the balcony in either the spa or seated massage chairs. Drift’s cutting edge design means the four different treatment areas can cater to couples, singles or be booked exclusively by a group of six to 16.

Edge Architecture’s Gordon Beath, who is renowned for the Gold Coast Mirage, designed the unique relaxation areas and balcony treatment space while Coco Republic Interiors combined earthy hues with inspiration from the ocean for the décor.

Spa manager Lea-Ann Kennedy said Drift was not just a typical day spa, but an incredible experience given to clients in a stunning beachfront setting.

 “The décor captures the essence of Li’tya’s Of the Earth and Of the Sea ranges which is important as each treatment at Drift is a sensory journey using colour, smell and sound to ground clients and leave them in a blissful state rarely achieved in their busy lives,” she said.

“Our six therapists have been fully trained in the use of Li’Tya which incorporates organic Australian native plant botanicals with ancient Aboriginal healing methods for a unique spa treatment.

“I fell in love with Li’Tya’s Australian made and owned products while I was working in spas on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula. I like the company’s philosophy of treading lightly on the earth as well as their commitment to ‘give back’ to the indigenous people.   

 “I discovered Mission Beach 20 years ago when I started coming here annually on holidays.

“Now I have been able to set up a state-of-the-art spa in the most beautiful and peaceful location I’ve seen. Helping clients reconnect with themselves and rejuvenate after a treatment completes the dream for me.”

‘Drift’ offers a comprehensive range of beauty services including professional photographic makeup using Atelier products from France.

According to Lea-Ann, ‘Drift’ is aboard the latest ‘spa party’ trend known as ‘Sparty’.  “This is a quirky and fun idea where our clients and their friends can enjoy exclusive use of the spa  - a healthy alternative for hen’s parties and special occasions.

When it comes to organizing a ‘sparty’, Drift can cater for groups of six to 16 and to celebrate its recent opening, has a special package available.  Until 31 May, 2009, groups of six booking a ‘sparty’ will receive a foot soak, one hour massage, cheese platter, glass of sparkling wine and use of the verandah spa for the party’s duration for just $600.

Other opening specials available this month include:

•  free Tuscan Tan this month with the purchase of Tuscan Tan Exfoliating Sugar Scrub, PH Balanced Skin Wash and the Tinted Tan Extender for $75.

Drift Spa is another progressive investment by the Neville-Smith family who own Castaways Resort and Spa and are committed to adding value to Mission Beach as a destination.

 “We are now rolling out our fresh Castaways branding to symbolise the resort’s recent refurbishment and expansion with the addition of Drift Spa and Palms wedding/conference facility – both built by local, Mission Beach builder Mark Watson of Watson Construction,” Mr James Neville-Smith said.

ENDS

For more information

Lea-Ann Kennedy Manager Drift Spa Telephone: (07) 4088 6807

Email:  relax@driftspa.com.au Web: www.driftspa.com.au

Publicity

Pip Miller PR Telephone: 0419 681543 Email: pip@pipmillerpr.com.au

MEDIA RELEASE                                       Thursday 19 March 2009

DRIFT SPA A FIRST FOR MISSION BEACH

While cassowaries tuck-in to the tropic’s exotic fruit known as quandongs in the Mission Beach rainforest, at the beach nearby, the therapists at Drift Spa are using it on clients as the key ingredient in a conditioning hair treatment.

Adding a new and holistic dimension to guest services and activities available in Mission Beach, Drift Spa opened last month at Castaways Resort and Spa.  In another first, it is the only beachfront spa facility in Tropical North Queensland.

The Dreaming, Drift’s signature three-and-a-half-hour treatment, incorporates a salt exfoliation, mud wrap, full massage (including hands, feet and face) and exotic hair mask made from the oil of the quandong kernel.

The luxurious treatment embodies the philosophy of Drift Spa to soothe the body, mind and soul of clients with Australia’s Aboriginal-inspired Li’Tya products and treatments.

Right on the edge of the white sands of spectacular Mission Beach, Drift Spa at Castaways Resort and Spa is the ultimate location for a massage or a body wrap as its absolute beachfront position gives an uninterrupted view of Dunk Island and the Coral Sea.

Serene state-of-the-art treatment rooms offer air-conditioned comfort, or drift off on the balcony in either the spa or seated massage chairs. Drift’s cutting edge design means the four different treatment areas can cater to couples, singles or be booked exclusively by a group of six to 16.

Edge Architecture’s Gordon Beath, who is renowned for the Gold Coast Mirage, designed the unique relaxation areas and balcony treatment space while Coco Republic Interiors combined earthy hues with inspiration from the ocean for the décor.

Spa manager Lea-Ann Kennedy said Drift was not just a typical day spa, but an incredible experience given to clients in a stunning beachfront setting.

 “The décor captures the essence of Li’tya’s Of the Earth and Of the Sea ranges which is important as each treatment at Drift is a sensory journey using colour, smell and sound to ground clients and leave them in a blissful state rarely achieved in their busy lives,” she said.

“Our six therapists have been fully trained in the use of Li’Tya which incorporates organic Australian native plant botanicals with ancient Aboriginal healing methods for a unique spa treatment.

“I fell in love with Li’Tya’s Australian made and owned products while I was working in spas on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula. I like the company’s philosophy of treading lightly on the earth as well as their commitment to ‘give back’ to the indigenous people.   

 “I discovered Mission Beach 20 years ago when I started coming here annually on holidays.

“Now I have been able to set up a state-of-the-art spa in the most beautiful and peaceful location I’ve seen. Helping clients reconnect with themselves and rejuvenate after a treatment completes the dream for me.”

‘Drift’ offers a comprehensive range of beauty services including professional photographic makeup using Atelier products from France.

According to Lea-Ann, ‘Drift’ is aboard the latest ‘spa party’ trend known as ‘Sparty’.  “This is a quirky and fun idea where our clients and their friends can enjoy exclusive use of the spa  - a healthy alternative for hen’s parties and special occasions.

When it comes to organizing a ‘sparty’, Drift can cater for groups of six to 16 and to celebrate its recent opening, has a special package available.  Until 31 May, 2009, groups of six booking a ‘sparty’ will receive a foot soak, one hour massage, cheese platter, glass of sparkling wine and use of the verandah spa for the party’s duration for just $600.

Other opening specials available this month include:

•  free Tuscan Tan this month with the purchase of Tuscan Tan Exfoliating Sugar Scrub, PH Balanced Skin Wash and the Tinted Tan Extender for $75.

Drift Spa is another progressive investment by the Neville-Smith family who own Castaways Resort and Spa and are committed to adding value to Mission Beach as a destination.

 “We are now rolling out our fresh Castaways branding to symbolise the resort’s recent refurbishment and expansion with the addition of Drift Spa and Palms wedding/conference facility – both built by local, Mission Beach builder Mark Watson of Watson Construction,” Mr James Neville-Smith said.

ENDS

For more information

Lea-Ann Kennedy Manager Drift Spa Telephone: (07) 4088 6807

Email:  relax@driftspa.com.au Web: www.driftspa.com.au

Publicity

Pip Miller PR Telephone: 0419 681543 Email: pip@pipmillerpr.com.au

Publicity

Pip Miller PR

Telephone: 0419 681543

Email: pip@pipmillerpr.com.au

MEDIA INFORMATION                                     Friday 20 March 09

NEW GENERAL MANAGER FOR RYDGES TRADEWINDS

Rydges Hotels and Resorts TNQ Area General Manager Simon White is pleased to announce the appointment of Matthew Hurley as General Manager of Rydges Tradewinds in Cairns.

Mr Hurley returns to Rydges Hotels and Resorts after nearly five years as General Manager of Operations for the Quicksilver Group of Companies comprising Quicksilver, Great Adventures and Green Island Resort.

An original member of the Rydges team when the company started in 1988, Mr Hurley went on to manage the Wentworth in Sydney from 1998 to 2000, then leaving after the excitement of the Olympics to be General Manager of Rydges Port Douglas until 2004.

During his career with Rydges, Mr Hurley opened Rydges in Perth and was awarded Rydges General Manager of the Year twice.

This appointment as General Manager of Rydges Tradewinds Cairns sees Mr Hurley return to the tropical city where he first worked as the General Manager of a much smaller establishment, Lake Central Lodge.  He was just 23 years of age.

“I’m delighted to be back in the Rydges fold and working in Cairns where my career as a General Manager began. With its enviable position on the Cairns Esplanade overlooking the Coral Sea, Rydges Tradewinds has a range of markets from families to conferences and I look forward to building on those strengths,” he said.

Mr Hurley has been a pro-active player in the tourism industry, sitting on the Australian Hotels Association NSW Executive in Sydney, was chairman of the AHA Accommodation in Perth and most recently was vice-chair of Port Douglas and Daintree Tourism.

On a personal level he has been able to indulge his love of watching his sons play football while serving as president of the Port Douglas Junior Crocs AFL club. Mr Hurley has three children Ally, 18, Jacob, 13, and Liam, 11, and his partner is Liz Morris.

ENDS

For media inquiries contact:

Matthew Hurley General Manager Rydges Tradewinds

DD:   61 7 4053 0301, Mobile: 0418 200 935

E: matthew_hurley@rydges.com  www.rydges.com/tradewinds

Publicity

Pip Miller PR

Telephone: 0419 681543

Email: pip@pipmillerpr.com.au

Internet: www.rydges.com/portdouglas

MEDIA INFORMATION                                  18 March, 2009

SIZZLING HOT SUMMER DEALS TAKE THE STING

OUT OF BUDGET BLUES

Rydges Sabaya Resort in Port Douglas has released a range of sizzling hot summer deals that well and truly beat the credit crunch to make it affordable to take that well deserved break whilst not compromising on quality.

Valid for travel until 30 June 09, visitors can resort to the ‘laid-back’ life with a value-packed stay 2 nights and the 3^rd night is FREE as well as amazing bed and breakfast rates across all rooms.  Add to this the resort’s family bonus (kids stay and eat breakfast for free) and Rydges Sabaya Resort offers a value for money getaway.

Rydges Sabaya Resort is a tranquil, relaxing oasis located in cosmopolitan Port Douglas offering relief from the daily grind.  Guests will relax and rejuvenate in the resort’s tropical surroundings while enjoying the full spectrum of guest facilities from large lagoon style swimming pool with swim-up bar to signature restaurant, Sakinah House and restorative day spa.  The resort is also one of the very few places in the Tropical North to have its own kids club (5 – 12 years)- making it a must for parents needing occasional time out.  Kanga Crew kid’s club operates seven days by appointment.

• Stay 3, Pay 2

While taking advantage of unbelievable summer rates with bonus inclusions, visitor’s can add real weight to their savings by participating in Rydges Sabaya Resort’s Stay 3, Pay 2 deal. 

In effect, guests who stay two nights, will receive the 3^rd night FREE in their choice of Rydges Sabaya Resort’s accommodation – be it resort rooms or one and two bedroom apartments.

This offer cannot be combined with any other package and is available now until June 30, 2009.

• Sizzling Summer Rates at Rydges Sabaya Resort

- Resort Room: from $90 per adult, per night

Bonus inclusions: Breakfast for 2 adults daily or stay 2 nights and the 3rd night is FREE

- One Bedroom Apartment: from $115 per adult, per night

Bonus inclusions: Breakfast for 2 adults and 1 child daily or stay 2 nights and the 3rd night is FREE

- Two Bedroom Apartment: from $160 per adult, per night

Bonus inclusions: Breakfast for 2 adults and 2 Kids daily or stay 2 nights and the 3rd night is FREE

For bookings, packages and more information about Rydges Sabaya Resort, visit www.rydges.com/portdouglas, call the resort on (+61) 07 4099 8900 or central reservations within Australia on 1300 857 922. 

Ends

For reservation inquiries, contact:

Heather Silvestri

Reservations Manager

Rydges Sabaya Resort, Port Douglas

DD:   61 7 4099 8900

E: reservations_portdouglas@rydges.com

For  industry inquiries, contact:

Caroline Kennedy

Director of Sales

Rydges Sabaya Resort, Port Douglas

DD: 0400 486 062

E: caroline_kennedy@rydges.com

Publicity

Pip Miller PR

Telephone: 0419 681543

Email: pip@pipmillerpr.com.au

MEDIA RELEASE                                 Thursday 19 March 2009

DISCOUNT CONFERENCE RATES FOR LOCALS

Rydges Sabaya Resort at Port Douglas is offering locals a sensational conference package in paradise from $45 per person per day.

General Manager Kellie Eustace said the red hot day delegate deal was perfect for businesses in Tropical North Queensland to use the quieter time of the year for team building or educating employees.

“A Locals accommodation rates from $49.50 per person, per night will help to stretch your training dollar further” she said.

Ms Eustace said the resort would provide exceptional service to meet every need and could cater to a range of events from small business meetings and social club functions to themed residential conferences.

“With five state-of-the-art conference rooms catering for up to 350 delegates and 192 accommodation rooms, including apartments and resort rooms, Rydges Sabaya Resort is the perfect place for work and play,” she said.

Rydges Sabaya Resort features a lagoon style pool, swim up pool bar, a day spa and signature restaurant Sakinah House is open for dinner seven days a week. 

Terms & Conditions: Subject to availability.  Accommodation rates are per adult twin share, subject to change without notice. Prices are AUD and inclusive of GST.  Offer valid until 31 December 2009. Offer valid only for Port Douglas, Cairns and Townsville businesses.  Local ID required

For more information or to book your next event contact Rydges Sabaya Resort’s conference team on Ph: (07) 4099 8900, Email:  sales_portdouglas@rydges.com or go to www.rydges.com/portdouglas

ENDS

For media inquiries contact:

Kellie Eustace, General Manager Rydges Sabaya Resort, Port Douglas

DD:   61 7 4099 8910, Mobile:  0419 279 614 E: kellie_eustace@rydges.com

Publicity

Pip Miller PR

Telephone: 0419 681543

Email: pip@pipmillerpr.com.au

MEDIA INFORMATION                                                Friday 20 March 09

RYDGES SOUTHBANK BRIDAL SPECTACULAR A HUGE SUCCESS

Tips on the Bridal Waltz, glamorous gowns and mouth-watering canapés were among the wedding must-haves displayed by a record 20 exhibitors at the eighth annual Rydges Southbank Bridal Spectacular on Sunday (March 15).

Rydges Southbank Townsville Director of Sales Dawn Gleeson said more than 350 brides-to-be were among the 1000 people who attended the popular event to admire wedding cakes, compare photographers’ work and get plenty of great ideas for the wedding of their dreams.

“An exciting addition this year was dance performances by Bridal Blitz, a new dance company offering dance lessons to those of us with two left feet,” she said.

“All the latest trends from Bella Donna Bridal and Hills in Hollywood, including bridesmaid’s gowns, were showcased in two fashion parades and Sally Curran
of West End was lucky enough to win a $1500 dress compliments of Bella Donna Bridal.

“A $750 gift voucher from Loloma Jewelers, free make-up for six from Beauty on Stanley, and an Indulgence Package from Rydges were the other prizes given out at the Bridal Spectacular.

“Rydges conducted a number of guided tours throughout the premises for prospective brides interested in holding their wedding, reception or both at the most romantic venue in Townsville.

“One of the most popular exhibits was by our new Banquet Sous Chef Angela Cameron who showcased her delicious canapé menu by handing out samples for guests. 

“Rydges Southbank Bridal Expo has been a popular annual event for those planning their nuptials as having all the wedding professionals in one room saves them an enormous amount of time.”

ENDS

For media inquiries contact:

Dawn Gleeson

Director of Sales

Rydges Southbank Townsville and Rydges Gladstone

Ph: 0400 265 933

E: dawn_gleeson@rydges.com

W: www.rydges.com