You’ve been part of the Billabong Retreat family for seven years now. What first drew you to Billabong, and what has kept you here all this time?

My first day here I was working as a kitchen hand and having had previous experience working in fast food I was rushing around trying to get things done as fast as possible, worrying I wasn’t going to be able to get everything done when the Chef at the time stopped me and said Relax, take your time its okay’ It made me realise how calm this place truly was and how different it was to anywhere else I had worked. For the first time in my working life I wasn’t being yelled at or rushed and I realised that working didn’t mean burning yourself out. It’s that feeling and energy that has kept me here for all those years that still lingers even after 7 years!

As Office Manager, you’re often the first point of contact for guests and the steady support for the team. How would you describe your role in your own words?

My role is to assist guests with any questions or needs they may have whilst also making sure that everything behind the scenes is running smoothly.

Billabong can be a busy, ever-moving place. How do you personally stay so calm, centred, and grounded—especially during challenging moments?

I stay calm because I don’t like to cling to the rush around me. When things get busy or messy, I slow the moment down instead of speeding up with it. I focus on what’s right in front of me, because how am I meant to help if I’m also acting with stress. 

You’re known for being someone who quietly “solves problems” and keeps things running smoothly behind the scenes. What do you enjoy most about supporting others in this way?

I love problem solving and seeing things fall into place—the moment when confusion softens into clarity, and all the moving parts finally align. There’s a quiet satisfaction in that shift, 

What does a typical day at Billabong look like for you—or is there such a thing as a “typical” day?

There’s rarely a “typical” day at Billabong, so much of my time is spent going with the flow rather than getting caught up in how things were supposed to go. I really love the variety my role brings, which means I’m never bored and always adapting to something new.

In your time here, what changes or growth have you witnessed at Billabong Retreat?

There’s been constant growth and improvement during my time here. When I first started, Billabong had almost half the guest capacity and staff it does now. Since then, new rooms and cabins have been added, and we’re able to offer a much wider variety of experiences for our guests. Watching the team grow alongside this expansion has been especially rewarding.

How has working in a wellness-focused environment influenced your own approach to life, balance, or wellbeing?

It’s taught me how important it is to take time for myself. We are always telling guests how important it is to take breaks, get outside and focus on self care and it’s just as important that the staff here do the same thing! If we’re not in the best frame of mind then how can we help others?

Is there a moment or memory from your time at Billabong that really stands out for you?

I love seeing the physical change in guests from when they arrive to when they leave. I often find it hard to recognise some guests just from how relaxed and calm they all seem compared to when they arrived.

Guests often comment on the sense of ease and safety they feel when they arrive. How do you think your role contributes to creating that experience?

I think we have a massive impact on guests’ experience. Being in reception I am often one of the first points of contact and I really want to make sure that guests feel comfortable from the second they arrive. More often than not guests have just finished up a busy day at work or had a stressful drive and I really just try my best to ensure guests are met with a calming presence which will set them up to really relax and enjoy their stay.

What does Billabong Retreat mean to you personally?

It represents the idea of pressing pause. It’s stepping out of noise, schedules and constant input and letting your nervous system remember what “okay” feels like. 

For someone considering a stay at Billabong, what would you love them to know about the place—especially what happens behind the scenes?

So much of what we do is intentional and comes from the best of intentions. From not offering wifi (This is a big one) which allows guests to be able to completely shut off from the outside world to the types of treatments we offer with rest and relaxation in mind. I think guests sometimes think we take the ‘easy way’ by offering specifics but we truly do it with the best intentions in mind.

Finally, when things get stormy—both literally and metaphorically—what helps you stay grounded and steady?

Using helpful tactics like slowing down my breathing, focusing on what’s within reach, and leaning into routines helps restore balance. Just as importantly, knowing I’m part of a supportive, capable team makes a real difference. Being able to rely on one another, share perspective, and face challenges together brings steadiness, even when conditions are unpredictable. Storms pass, and with the right people around you, they’re easier to navigate.