Island dream job already a reality
23 Feb 09
Tourism Queensland’s recent advert for a dream job in Queensland sparked international interest but for Gold Coast local, Peter Gannon, it’s already a reality.
For the past six years Peter, Director of Operations at Couran Cove Island Resort, has lived and worked on the idyllic South Stradbroke island resort with his wife and daughter. As well as being challenging and rewarding, the job comes with some perks which make Peter’s ‘daily grind’ the envy of most people.
Peter’s typical day begins with a surf at the island’s 22 kilometres of pristine beach and his daily commute by golf buggy takes a mere five minutes door to door. During the short drive through sand dunes and rainforest track he acknowledges fellow commuters - the local wildlife of wallabies and bandicoots. Lunch is spent by the lagoon and the day ends with a retreat home to a deluxe marine lodge overlooking the water, and it’s all part of the job.
"I feel very lucky to work in such a beautiful location and it’s great to share the experience with my family every day," Peter said.
"Couran Cove is such a great place to work. I could never go back to the confines of an office in the concrete jungle. My workmates are fantastic and there is a laid-back, family feel on the island, which I think is why so many employees have stayed with the company and never looked back."
Peter’s role involves overseeing maintenance of the 55 hectare eco-resort. Overseas business trips to other island resorts in Thailand and Saipan are also part of his job description.
Recent findings show many Australians experience high levels of stress in the workplace, largely contributed to open–plan office settings. This issue is unlikely to affect the staff at Couran Cove as they largely work in private marine rooms, many of which overlook the Broadwater. A large number of employees have been with the company since its inception
more than10 years ago and would attest they have the best job in the world in one of the most beautiful locations.
At Couran Cove Island Resort, nature and culture blend harmoniously to create a truly unique resort. A beautiful location, excellent food and drink and an unrivalled list of both sporting activities and relaxation options make the island an ideal location for people who want to retreat from the hustle and bustle.
Peter and wife Kathy enjoy access to all the resort facilities, including the gym, pool areas, restaurants, day spa and the many other outdoor activities, and most are free of charge. The chilled-out couple regularly takes the pleasant 40 minute ferry ride to the mainland where the Gold Coast awaits. Most weekends are spent relaxing on the island or cycling along one of the many rainforest tracks. They often go on evening bushwalks to visit their friendly neighbours, or stargaze to explore the wonders of the night sky.
"Living on an island is anyone’s dream job and every day I’m grateful that my family and I are able to experience the qualities the island has to offer," Peter said.
"It’s a wonderful feeling knowing guests can share the experience of this amazing island but, while they have to return to reality after a week or two, I get to live and work on the island for the long term."
For full information on the resort and the latest offers, visit our website at www.couran.com
or call 07 5509 3000 or 1800 268 726 within Australia.
