After 28 years abroad, managing world-class wellness & luxury resorts across Singapore, Bali, Thailand, and the Caribbean, Narelle has returned to Australia to bring her wealth of experience and her passion for mindful hospitality- to our tranquil eco/bushland/nature retreat
What inspired you to make the move from the Maldives to Billabong Retreat in Sydney?
After 28 years living overseas working in luxury resorts in exotic locations such as Singapore, Bali, Thailand, and the Caribbean, I was immediately drawn to the opportunity to come home —not only because of the role itself, but because of the way the property presents itself as a place of calm, care, and quiet excellence. In a world of hurried hospitality, it’s rare to find a space so clearly led by intention.
What was your first impression of Billabong Retreat when you arrived?
The tone of the welcome, the soul of the retreat felt instantly calming and nurturing. I am excited to lead and inspire the team on our purpose-driven guest experience journey.
How does life at Billabong compare to your time managing a retreat overseas?
Life at Billabong feels beautifully grounded. Overseas, I worked on very remote islands. Here, there’s an intimacy — a sense of genuine connection with guests. The Australian bush setting brings a slower rhythm which is what I believe guests come here to rediscover.
What excites you most about joining the Billabong team?
The team feels very authentic and I think they live and breathe to offer guests wellness that’s accessible, nurturing, and real. Being part of that feels energising.
You’ve worked in some stunning places — what have you learned about creating truly restorative retreat experiences?
I believe that luxury today is about time for yourself, about space to breathe, about good clean food and importantly about sincerity. When we can help people reconnect with themselves, whether through yoga, meditation, stillness or nature, guests leave with some level of transformation and commitment for their future which is humbling to be part of.hat in
How would you describe your leadership or management style?
Calm, collaborative, and quietly structured. A harmonious team energy translates directly into the guest experience so I hope that I can inspire the team with my hands-on leadership.
What’s your vision for Billabong Retreat moving forward?
To continue honouring what makes Billabong special, soul and simplicity and thoughtfully evolving programs and guest experiences that deepen our impact. I’d love to see more partnerships with visiting practitioners, new layers of learning and creativity for guests, and an even stronger connection between wellbeing and nature.
The wellness world is always evolving — what trends or ideas are inspiring you right now? I’m drawn to “slow wellness” moving away from performance-based wellbeing and toward stillness, rest, and reconnection. I’m also inspired by the idea of emotional ecology — how nature restores our nervous system and sense of belonging. Simplicity, happiness and a holistic approach I think, are the next evolutions in wellness.
What’s your favourite way to unwind when you’re not managing a retreat?
I love cooking simple, nourishing food and spending time in the garden, both make me feel grounded. I am also a (very bad) golfer and I love the mental focus needed for a round of golf.
What’s one little thing that always makes you smile during your day here?
Seeing guests lingering in the guest lounge area, reading or quietly chatting to others. It’s a quiet sign that people feel safe and at ease. I feel that’s when we know a retreat is working its magic.
If you could describe Billabong Retreat in three words, what would they be?
Authentic, nurturing, restorative
