River Retreat wins prestigious award

Noosa River Retreat has just won Boutique Resort of the Year 2020/21.

By Abbey Cannan

A local small business has received a prestigious title as they have been named the Boutique Resort of the Year for Queensland.

Noosa River Retreat was successfully announced as the winner last week by Corporate Livewire Prestige Awards.

Noosa River Retreat managers Geoff and Kate Arscott said it meant so much to be acknowledged for doing a good job.

“In the past, having both worked in Emergency Service’s for 20 plus years, we now get to use our people skills in a much happier environment,“ Kate said.

“We entered into the tourism industry and our first business in March 2020, at what some would think was the worst timing ever. However, we quickly adapted to welcoming essential workers, stranded travelers, displaced and homeless, and sadly a couple of domestic violence victims, all at very reduced weekly rates.

“As guests were staying for longer periods, it enabled us the time to really learn the business, nurture the gardens and add our personal touches to the resort.

“We know people’s time and money is very precious, particularly in these unprecedented times; whether they are visiting for a weekend away, a longer holiday, or just overnight for work, our goal is to make people’s stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

“The judges commended us for going the extra mile, above and beyond for our guests, along with our attention to detail and obvious passion and love for our little resort.“

Kate said although owning a small business had it’s stresses, they loved it.

“In the tourism industry you can’t have ‘a bad day’, you must have a positive attitude that shine’s through to the guest and we believe that is why we were selected to win this award; we treat each and every one of our guests like old friends; we always look forward to meeting new guests and welcoming back returning guests, along with their friends as they share their discovery of Noosa’s Hidden Gem.“

The judges said they were impressed with their personal nature, consistency of reviews and overall attentiveness.

They said, “You and Geoff seem to go over and above for your guests and I hope this achievement brings more success during these difficult times.“

The Queensland Prestige Awards have introduced regional awards to recognise smaller, independent businesses that are extremely successful on a local level.