Wyndham Vacation Resorts Coffs Harbour has been recognised as the South Pacific’s leading environmentally friendly resort, after winning the prestigious Go Green Resort Award at the recent Australian Timeshare and Holiday Ownership Council (ATHOC) conference on the Gold Coast.
The coveted award is an initiative of global timeshare exchange leader RCI, and recognises South Pacific resorts that have implemented exceptional eco projects.
In a major coup for the New South Wales mid-north coast region, the Coffs Harbour property took out first place for a range of recent initiatives focused on reducing power consumption and recycling.
“We are absolutely thrilled to be recognised at this level for our environmental program at Wyndham Coffs Harbour-Treetops,” said Resort Manager Gary Collard. “The maintenance team has put a lot of planning and hard work into making our green ideas become a reality, and this award confirms we’re setting a new benchmark in eco-holiday experiences,” he added.
“Wyndham Vacation Resorts Coffs Harbour demonstrated a range of practical and highly effective measures which have dramatically improved the property’s green credentials, especially in relation to power consumption,” said RCI Managing Director Charisse Cox.
“As consumers become increasingly eco-conscious, it is crucial that the hospitality industry responds with clean and green holiday experiences, and resorts like Wyndham Vacation Resorts Coffs Harbour are leading the way,” she added.
The resort received $2,500 prize money to be spent on future green works at the property.
“This is a significant financial boost which will allow us to implement some of the exciting ideas we currently have in the pipeline,” said Resort Maintenance Manager Steve Drake. “We are still deciding on our next project, but we’re considering constructing a nature trail on the property so guests can enjoy the stunning bush surrounds,” Mr Drake said.
The 2013 awards were judged by Griffith University Professor of Tourism Research, Dr David Weaver, who visited the resort to view the environmental projects first-hand.
Over the past year the resort has seen an extensive reduction of energy costs thanks to a host of recent improvements. The property is now at stage three of its LED lighting upgrades, taking the resort to 50% LED lighting. A second 10Kw solar system was installed this year to reduce energy consumption.
Eight new speed controlled pool pumps have also been implemented, leading to an impressive 85% reduction in power costs in the resort’s pump room. Together these initiatives have seen on average, a consistent 15% reduction in overall power usage.
The resort is currently developing a program which will see guests contributing to the onsite recycling programs, which include a worm farm. Fertilizer is also generated onsite for the property’s extensive gardens, which are irrigated with water captured in rainwater tanks.
The resort’s spacious, well-equipped apartments feature water efficient washing machines and dishwashers, environmentally friendly taps and shower heads and recycling bins.
Bordered by pristine beachfront and sub-tropical rainforest, Wyndham Coffs Harbour- Treetops features a heated pool, gym, barbecue area and access to a golf course, day spa and restaurant. The resort offers a truly relaxing getaway for nature lovers and those who seek genuine eco-holiday experiences.
Wyndham Coffs Harbour – Treetops adopts environmental best practises in line with the Wyndham Green program, part of Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific’s commitment to conserve resources, preserve natural habitats and prevent pollution.