Revamped Motel Caloundra targets net-zero status
Caloundra, a popular coastal destination in Queensland, has welcomed the grand opening of Motel Caloundra after an impressive transformation of the former Caloundra City Centre Motel.
Led by Andrew and Lucy Pink, renowned hotel developers and designers, in partnership with Scott Armstrong of Maeva Hospitality, the rejuvenated hotel aims to offer a stylish and serene experience in the heart of the city, as the Sunshine Coast’s first net-zero energy hotel.
Located opposite The Events Centre and the site of the proposed Sunshine Coast Regional Gallery, Motel Caloundra unveils as part of the Caloundra Centre Master Plan’s effort to create a vibrant community and creative arts hub.
Continuing the trend
The Pinks’ newest hotel transformation follows two highly successful restorations over the past three years.
Their first Sunshine Coast venture was the conversion of Riverpark Maroochy Motel into the immediately Instafamous Loea Boutique Hotel, and then everything old was made new again at the heritage Maleny Lodge in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.
The nine-room Motel Caloundra is able to boast “location, location, location”, but had seen better days when the Pinks and Scott Armstrong began their modernisation of the property.
Motel make-over modernises the property
Rooms and bathrooms were stripped back to concrete and redesigned, new double-glazed windows were installed for soundproofing and insulation, and deluxe interiors – including king beds with organic cotton sheets – and smart TVs with Netflix installed.
Superior king rooms also have a private outdoor balcony and dedicated car parking space.
As part of the redevelopment a family suite and apartment were added. Both offer two bedrooms, living areas, private balconies, and car spaces, and the apartment also includes a fully equipped kitchen.
Guests have access to Oggy E-scooters (for rent) on-site to discover Caloundra’s coastal paths, and the motel is just a short walk to the town’s beaches, restaurants, cafes, bars, and renowned street art trail.
A feature of the motel’s transformation is the installation of a rooftop bank of 47 solar panels, which will produce 19.50kw of power during the day, and batteries which will produce a further 23kw of power during the evening, allowing the hotel to operate for most of the time without need for external energy sources.
Motel plays key role in Caloundra’s development
Motel Caloundra’s developers were drawn to the property by its central location and the potential for it to play an important role in Caloundra’s future development.
“There’s no doubt that we are right in the heart of Caloundra’s future development plans, which are very exciting,” Andrew Pink said.
“To be just a short walk from Caloundra’s beaches and across the road from The Events Centre and the future regional gallery makes it even more important for visitors to have access to high-quality accommodation.
We will also work closely with The Events Centre to facilitate their requirements for VIP accommodation for performers and delegates.
“Scott and I have gone out of our way to make the hotel a model of sustainability, given the Sunshine Coast’s commitment to sustainability and its UNESCO biosphere status.”
Revamped motel poised to shape sustainable tourism
With Motel Caloundra’s dedication to sustainable practices, such as the installation of a solar panel bank on the rooftop, capable of producing its own energy during the day and at night, the hotel aims to become the Sunshine Coast’s first net-zero energy hotel.
Matt Stoeckel, the CEO of Visit Sunshine Coast, praises the hotel’s commitment to environmental sustainability, aligning with the region’s reputation as a UNESCO biosphere.
As Caloundra continues to thrive as a tourism destination, this revamped hotel is expected to play a significant role in shaping the area’s future development, not only as a recreational paradise but also as a major hub for events, conferences, and cultural pursuits.
Book your stay at Motel Caloundra
Guests can now book their stays at Motel Caloundra, with rates starting from $180 per night for a Standard King Room, ensuring a comfortable, eco-friendly, and unforgettable experience in Caloundra.
To book, click this link: MOTEL CALOUNDRA
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Story and photos contributed by Sunshine Coast Tourism. Published: 4 October 2023.
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Take a day trip to Conondale National Park
While visiting the Sunshine Coast, take a day trip to the swimming hole at Booloumba Creek in Conondale National Park. Enjoy the stunning turquoise and emerald waters, and explore the park’s walking trails, including the scenic Booloumba Falls.
For more details click here!
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