Relax, stay, play!

Who would have thought that Crowne Plaza Pelican Waters Golf Resort and Spa, with the international reach that its name suggests, is locally owned?

It’s true. The management rights are in fact owned by Ken Reed, Steve Cole and John Calcino under a franchise agreement. 

Patrons of the resort get the best of both worlds: a facility owned by Sunshine Coasters, with the local sensibility and commitment that that brings; and the standards of an international hospitality company.

Anthony Johnston, who grew up here on the Coast, is the General Manager. He says it’s, “great to have the support and systems in place from a management-style resort but still be locally owned. Of course, the Crowne Plaza brand standards need to be met, which simply means the end user can be absolutely assured of the highest quality product.”

The local theme also applies to the general public. The restaurant (a $15 set lunch is on offer at the moment), the spa, the gym and the hairdresser are all available without check-in. But while it’s convenient for locals, it is tucked away so that visitors can remove themselves from the daily stresses of running a business. “If you want to get away from it all, even just for a weekend, it’s so close but like you are in the middle of the country.  And just five minutes to the beach.” One third of the guests are permanent; either tenants or owner occupiers.

Over the holiday period, locals can come for Christmas Day lunch (if you get in fast, as they are nearly fully booked) or join in the festivities on New Year’s Eve, which will include fireworks at midnight.

The resort also hosts many local weddings, on the lawn by the lake or the pool, with the reception in the ballroom.  Anthony says that part of the resort’s business is, “growing and growing.”

Anthony sees three “points of difference” that separate the Crowne Plaza from competitors.

First is service. “It’s is far better than it has ever been before,” he says. But it’s service that hits the right notes and is not overdone. “Service is about the smile, it is about anticipating guests’ needs,” says Anthony. “Organising a high chair or a cot without the customers having to ask, simply because you have seen them walk in with children.”

The golf course is another way Crowne Plaza separates itself. “It’s not too spread out and everything is convenient; it’s also quiet. It is so peaceful.” 

Pelican Waters Spa and Retreat is another way the resort has an edge. Early next year, it will be introducing some five or six-night health and well-being retreats.

The Crowne Plaza boasts eight conference/function areas than can cater for up to 320 people. The ballroom can accommodate a sit-down function for up to 280 people.  The Bribie Room is in the penthouse of the hotel and has been set up for management retreats, planning meetings, workshops and other such events.  It seats up to 16 and has amazing views across Bribie Island and over the Pumistone Passage. Conferences can be scheduled for 10 to 320 people. The daily rate of around $55 per person per day includes venue hire, morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea.

If you have never been to the Crowne Plaza Pelican Waters Golf Retreat and Spa, why not pop down for a look during these holidays?