The friendliness and down-to-earth honesty normally attributed to ‘country people’ is an apt description of Jenny and John Gaynor, long-term resident managers of Caribbean Noosa, a ‘boutique’ short-stay property situated in the heart of Noosa.
Formerly farmers from Wagga before careers in teaching and hospitality, and now the mines for John, the couple exude cordiality and appear made for management rights. It’s hard to believe then that it took them almost two years to find and settle on their perfect property.
But perfect it is…
Set among one acre of lush tropical gardens with a private sandy beach for swimming and watersports, Caribbean Noosa is a secluded and peaceful paradise of just sixteen, welcoming one-bedroom holiday apartments.
Ideal for couples or those wanting to ‘escape from it all’, the units are available in a choice of waterfront, poolside, or garden situation and offer private courtyards. All are self-contained with a kitchenette and reverse cycle air-conditioners, and have been refurbished to present a light and modern décor. Mezzanine level bedrooms feature queen size beds while spacious living areas include a double sofa lounge/bed, flat screen televisions, Foxtel cable television and free wifi (Netflix to come soon).
External amenities of the property include a large heated swimming pool, a private jetty with picturesque dining settings (enjoy a champagne brekky on the water) and ample pace for guests to dock their boat or jetski, a barbecue gazebo with picnic tables overlooking the pool and river, and kayak and paddleboard hire.
The list of possible activities doesn’t end there however. Within a few minutes easy walk is the world-famous ‘Hastings Street’ replete with a wonderful choice of restaurants, cafes, boutique shopping and day-spas; and when that becomes ‘enough’, guests can leave the noise and crowds and head over to the beautiful Noosa Heads Main Beach.
As one of the few beaches along Australia's coastline that faces north, Noosa Heads Main Beach is the best option for families or those who are not confident in the surf, as it has gentle waves and is patrolled by surf lifesavers! Moderate waves and safe for swimming all year round, Noosa Main Beach is patrolled 365 days a year and is only steps away from famous Hastings Street.
And if the surf and sand gets too much, guests can take a stroll through the spectacular Noosa National Park with its wildlife, stunning coastal walks, and shady bush tracks.
“We knew as soon as we saw the property in late 2010 that it was the one we had been waiting for,” says Jenny. “We had two young children back then, and apart from the manager’s unit being unusually large, we fell in love with Noosa and all that it has to offer.
“For a relatively laid-back town there is always something going on; whether its whale watching, 4x4 trails, river cruises, deep sea fishing, walking, driving, riding or cycling through Noosa’s dramatic coastal and hinterland landscapes or sampling the extraordinary breadth of the Noosa gourmet scene.
“Despite its celebrity status however, Noosa still feels like a ‘country town’,” says Jenny, “just with a whole lot of added benefits. Whatever experience you choose, rest assured that there’s more in store for your next visit.”
And it appears their guests concur.
The majority of the sought-after bookings at Caribbean Noosa are made by returning guests - sometimes for stays of up to four weeks, and the Booking.com rate of 8.9 and online reviews reflect a common theme: “a beautiful and relaxing atmosphere”, “wonderful personal service”, “very friendly hosts” and even “John and Jenny consistently go the extra mile”.
The positive feedback has not led to them sitting on their laurels however.
“We’re aware of changes in the industry such as the introduction and growth of Airbnb,” says Jenny, “and that this year has been a little quieter than normal, so we are upping the ante on our marketing and communication strategies. We have recently done a review of our branding and signage and will be updating our website in the near future.”
“Our communication however, is not all external. We have a very good relationship with all of the owners and the body corporate, and believe that this is largely due to the level of communication and interaction that we have with them.
“Our owners are positive and supportive, and together we are constantly looking for ways to improve our guest experience.
“Management rights is a complex industry and it can be more difficult because of the number of personalities involved, but if you are able to build a relationship of mutual trust so that all stakeholders know that you are doing what is best for the resort and the owners, then the battle is half won.
“I know it’s been said before, but it bears repeating,” says Jenny. “Management rights is a great, long-term business, but you need to make sure that you’re the right type of person for it. Just as living in a country town is not for everyone, neither is the hospitality industry.”
