Lord Howe Island luxury accommodation, Australia
How this holiday makes a difference
Environment
In terms of social benefits, we provide donations, gift vouchers for island golf tournament, ultrasound medical equipment, prizes for community events, church functions, school fundraising raffles for the local community.
We also book with local tour operators on check-in. Their tours are very much part of the island experience and are encouraged as an activity. Lunch is not included in the tariff, and therefore guests are encouraged to eat out at the local restaurants.
Our environmental policies are important when you operate luxury lodges in remote wilderness regions. The environment is an integral part of all guest experiences. Put simply, who we are is expressed by how we interact with our natural surroundings. To help us achieve our goals, we employ a dynamic environmental management plan that steers our operations and enhances guest experiences.
Revegetation of 2 acres of land surrounding the lodge is ongoing, planting endemic species affected by erosion: 175 Kentia Palms and 200 assorted shrubs and trees including Hopwood, Sallywood, Melaluca, Juniper, Bulli Bush, Tee Tree, Berry Wood and Goat Wood.
The lodges management collaborate closely with the Lord Howe Island Board to implement management policies in keeping with the destination’s World Heritage listing. In particular, carefully controlled visitation and accommodation of no more than 400 guests at any one time on the island.
We exploit low wattage, energy saver light globes in all rooms. LPG is utilised for laundry and kitchen facilities at both properties. We employ a solar power hot water system, supported by a LPG booster facility.
The aspect of the property has been designed to maximise natural weather patterns, including flow-through ventilation and glazing to capture sunlight and store natural heat. Our lodge, in particular, takes advantage of its sub tropical climate and does not require air conditioning. Eco-smart fires, fuelled by green energy such as ethanol heat the public areas in the Main Lodge and in the premium suite.
Electric vehicles are used for guest needs and complemented by a “fleet” of mountain bikes which are the primary source of transport around the island.
Our wastewater is currently managed by an envirocycle secondary sewage treatment plant with treated water used for irrigation purposes. Organic waste is sent to Lord Howe Island’s leading edge Vertical Compost Unit. Biodegradable chemicals are used for cleaning.
Extensive recycling is undertaken, separating compost materials, cardboard and paper, glass, plastic, aluminium and rubbish.
The lodge captures up to 50% of all its water needs in rainwater tanks, with a total storage of 250,000 litres supplied by more regular rainfall patterns. In accordance with the Commonwealth Government’s Water Efficiency & Labelling Standards Act, the property has installed accredited bathroom and shower fittings to ensure efficient systems for guests to minimise their water usage. Guests are encouraged to opt for laundry services every third day of their stay, potentially saving 250,000 litres per annum as well as minimising detergent use.
Community
In terms of our economically beneficial policies for the locality, we employ locals as staff where possible and training is part of the experience. There is only one 'town' on this 11km long island.
We buy local fish from local inhabitants; and also grow organic herbs and salad supplies on the property. We also churn our own ice-cream and make our own bread.
We use a local plumber, gas fitter, electrician and tiler - all thee people live close by on the island.
Landscape
Rare birds, plants, geology and marine life; explore the most remote rocky coves, undertake a journey of discovery with world renowned naturalist Ian Hutton, spend a day walking to the summit of Mt Gower rated as one of Australia’s best day walks or “bus it” around the Island to get your bearings.
Play 9 holes on the most picturesque course in Australia, swing a tennis racket or bowl with the locals.Visit the palm nursery, Lord Howe Island museum and visitor centre for more information on this unique Island.
Lord Howe Island has a myriad of land based activities for you to enjoy.
