View a selection of the videos that showcase the Scenic Rim Region.
Mayor John Brent opened the new $12-million Sky Lodges development at Binna Burra this month, marking a new direction for the historic hinterland retreat.
The opening comes nearly 80 years after tourism pioneers Arthur Groom and Romeo Lahey first invited guests to stay at their Binna Burra Lodge.
Members from the Groom and Lahey family attended the opening, as did LNP member for Beaduesert Jon Krause and Yugambeh Aboriginal Elder Aunty Ruby Rose.
The Sky Lodges development remains true to the founder’s original vision to introduce visitors to the wonders of the Lamington National Park, however it makes that introduction in a very modern way.
Guest comfort was upper-most on the minds of the Binna Burra board and the project architects, dm2 architecture when they designed the 20 Sky Lodges, which offer a stylish and contemporary alternative to Binna Burra’s traditional cabins.
Perched on the side of a mountain with stunning north-facing views across Coomera and Numinbah Valleys, the Sky Lodges are fully self-contained and have been finished to the highest of standards.
Ann Neal, the granddaughter of Romeo Lahey is the only surviving member of the first Christmas Camp, held by Romeo and Arthur in 1933. She joined Arthur Groom’s son Richard at the Sky Lodges opening. About 220 people attended the opening, before enjoying lunch on the Coomera Terrace.
Perched on the side of a mountain with stunning north-facing views across Coomera and Numinbah Valleys, the Sky Lodges are fully self-contained and have been finished to the highest of standards.
The spacious one, two and three-bedroom Sky Lodges all feature private balconies, cosy lounge rooms with gas fireplaces, leather couches, local photography on the walls and use local timber, stone and copper. The Sky Lodges also feature flat screen televisions, wireless internet, BBQs and laundry facilities. The views are spectacular and even the spa bath has an uninterrupted view over the valley.
The Sky Lodges were built in response to feedback from guests who loved the Binna Burra experience but wanted more luxurious accommodation. They’ve been built on freehold land in the 20,600ha World Heritage-listed Lamington National Park and are privately owned.
Project Manager, Tim Medhurst, says the design is environmentally sustainable and the buildings feature the latest in environmentally efficient finishes and features.
“We knew we would only get one chance at this and we wanted the Sky Lodges to be remembered for all the right reasons,” he says.
“It was very important to us that the new development blend in with the existing buildings. Arthur and Romeo wanted to create a place where people could escape the city, stay and experience the beauty of the Lamington National Park in an environmentally-sustainable way.
“Through the building design, the landscaping and the interior finishes, we have created a product that remains true to their original vision but also offers our guests the comfort and conveniences which they requested.”
The Sky Lodges are located close to the Binna Burra Mountain Lodge and guests can either self-cater or take meals in the Clifftop Dining Room. Guests can book into Binna Burra’s many guided activities, or may prefer to relax in front of the fire with a book.
The Sky Lodges are a luxury option for conference bookers, individual holiday-makers and for couples seeking a truly romantic weekend escape.
The Sky Lodge tariffs are:
1 Bed Studio: $290/night (sleeps 2 to 3 people)
1 Bed Apartment: $340/night (sleeps 2 to 5 people)
2 Bed Apartment: $485/night (sleeps 4 to 8 people)
3 Bed Apartment: $630/night (sleeps 6 to 10 people)
Binna Burra is an easy 30 minute drive from the Gold Coast and a 90 minute drive from Brisbane.
Find out more about the Sky Lodges at www.binnaburralodge.com.au or call 1300 246 622 to make a booking.
Tags: Ann Neale, Arthur Groom, Binna Burra Mountain Lodge, Jon Krause MP, Mayor John Brent, Richard Groom, Romeo Lahey, Sky Lodges