Andrew and Nicola Forrest buy luxury Byron Bay resort from Olivia Newton-John

The billionaire RM Williams owner and mining magnate’s gone in boots and all on the Aussie movie and music icon’s boutique resort. See inside the $30m property.

Mining tycoon and R.M. Williams owner Andrew “Twiggy” Forrest has bought Olivia Newton-John’s luxury Byron Bay resort, Gaia, adding to his private firm’s portfolio of renowned Australian brands.

The celebrity ownership transfer of the boutique lifestyle retreat from the beloved singer/actor to Dr Forrest and wife Nicola comes a year after the couple’s investment group restored the iconic Adelaide bootmaker to Australian ownership.

It is understood the Forrests’ private firm, Tattarang, paid about $30m for the 22-room, 8ha, Gaia Retreat & Spa, about 20km southwest of Byron Bay, which in 2018 won global hotel of the year in the World Luxury Hotel Awards.

The globally acclaimed Gaia Retreat & Spa at Byron Bay.

Tattarang has acquired Olivia Newton-John's luxury Byron Bay retreat.

Tattarang has acquired Olivia Newton-John's luxury Byron Bay retreat.

Ms Newton-John, who co-founded the resort in 2005, issued a welcome video to the Forrests, declaring it had been a “very great privilege to share our slice of paradise” and “those unique and extraordinary experiences that make our country so special”.

Gaia is Tattarang’s first accommodation asset and the Forrests’ most high-profile asset – besides R.M. Williams – outside their West Australian base.

Mrs Forrest, a Tattarang director, said the firm’s holistic approach was not just about investing in quality businesses but ensuring sustainability and community benefit.

“As custodians of truly unique Australian experiences, we understand and deeply respect the founding vision of Gaia, which has transformed a wellness philosophy into one of Australia’s most celebrated destinations,” she said.

“We are investing in and developing unique and meaningful places – places that have the capacity to enhance the health and wellbeing of individuals and communities.”

Like with the $190m purchase last October of the Adelaide boot, apparel and leathercraft manufacturer founded in 1932 by legendary bushman Reginald Murray Williams, Tattarang has committed to retaining Gaia’s staff and hopes to employ more.

Tattarang has acquired Olivia Newton-John's luxury Byron Bay retreat.

Andrew Forrest and his wife Nicola also own the RM Williams factory at Salisbury. Picture: Keryn Stevens

Movie star Olivia Newton John and business partner Gregg Cave.

It is understood a common driver of both purchases was to employ Australians, invest in domestic industry sectors and showcase the country to the world.

Ms Newton-John, a four-time Grammy Award winner and Grease co-star, said she was thrilled, along with her co-owners, to see how the Forrests would preserve their legacy at Gaia.

“After 16 years, we are excited to pass the baton to new visionaries to nurture and grow this majestic hinterland oasis – a place which has been so deeply embraced as a home away from home for so many on their wellness and healing journey,” she said.

Tattarang’s portfolio also includes the Western Force rugby union team and Swan Brewery – both based in Perth.