Retreat unveils expansion plan

The owners of luxury retreat Amaroo have unveiled an expansion plan that would more than double capacity, after the COVID-19 pandemic drove an increase in local demand for tourism.

According to a development application, lodged by Planning Outcomes WA with the Shire of Mundaring, Amaroo Retreat & Spa owners Paul and Emma Rashleigh hope to construct 12 eco tents and decommission and replace its massage rooms.

The proposal would also include upgrades to the private gym, office and storeroom.

The expansion plan, valued at $2.1 million, is earmarked for a section of its 203,124 square metre site in Mount Helena’s state forest, about 40 kilometres east of Perth.

The site has been functioning as a luxury retreat and spa since 2018, complete with eight chalets, a restaurant and a swimming pool.

Fremantle-based manufacturer Eco Structures has provided concept designs for the accommodation, the same company responsible for constructing the eco-tents at Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm in Broome and Stonefish Wines in Margaret River.

Amaroo confirmed the expansion plan was the product of a review, launched in the wake of a surging local demand during the COVID-19 pandemic which left the retreat fully booked.

But Mr Rashleigh told Business News he was confident the demand would continue beyond the state's border closures, anchored by the unique experience it offered guests.

“When COVID initially happened and interstate and overseas travel was stopped, our occupancy increased to full capacity, which along with that other challenges followed," he said.

“One of which was finding more staff to come and work in an extremely volatile and challenging hospitality and tourism environment. 

“We implemented additional cleaning procedures, changed our check-in process to completely no contact and carefully rostered staff to minimise exposure.

“Our demand hasn’t dropped off since the re-opening of the borders – one of the most regular comments we receive is that people can’t book because we’re full so far in advance."

The Shire of Mundaring has backed the proposal, recommending it be approved by the Metro Outer Joint Development Assessment Panel subject to a suite of conditions.

A decision on the proposal is expected to be made when the panel meets next Tuesday.