The Mackay seaside ’hidden oasis’ booked out since COVID
Just minutes away from a world-famous spot, the units offer outdoor entertaining plus free kayak and bike hire
Mackay
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As COVID-19 delivers a blow to tourism, one Mackay seaside spot remains unscathed having been booked out for months.
Seaforth Holiday Units owner and manager Tracy Morris said their five self-contained units had been occupied since they reopened in June last year.
"It's a bit crazy," Mrs Morris said.
"It's been a pretty full-on couple of years."
She said about nine in 10 of their visitors chose the destination because they wanted to see the famous wallabies at nearby Cape Hillsborough.
"Most of the guests over the last five years have been overseas guests," Mrs Morris said.
"You've either got the ones that aren't too impressed because they expect shops and McDonald's … I try and explain to them you can't see kangaroos on a beach five minutes away and then expect it to be a built-up big town.
"Others come and it's just like a hidden oasis, they absolutely it.
"There's been a lot of repeat customers.
"We're pet friendly too so that's been a big drawcard."
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But perhaps the stylish and quirky renovations have also played a part with Mrs Morris and her husband Jason having transformed the space since buying it 14 years ago.
"It was stuck in the '70s - the decor, the paint, everything," Mrs Morris said.
"The whole building was like a baby blue, it was just hideous.
"It had dolphin ornaments and dolphin doona covers."
Now, the rooms are tastefully decorated with locally-sourced beach finds and there is a handcrafted entertaining area out the back set among tropical gardens.
It features a kitchen decked out with a barbecue and outdoor oven as well as plenty of seating and a lounging space.
There is also an insta-worthy fence dotted with old signage while those looking for adventure are offered free bike and kayak hire so they can check out Seaforth Beach only metres down the road.
And for those preferring to stay in, there is free Netflix plus a decently stocked bottle shop just next door.
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Mrs Morris said COVID may have temporarily stopped their overseas visitors but Queenslanders trekking in their own backyard had filled the gaps.
"It's just paradise down here," she said.
"A lot of our guests that have stayed here live in Seaforth now."
Check out the Seaforth Holiday Units website or Facebook page for more information and bookings.
This story was thanks to the My Town series - a Daily Mercury and Mackay Regional Council initiative.
Next up, deputy editor Tara Miko will visit Walkerston on Tuesday, February 16 alongside a Mackay councillor.
Let us tell the stories that matter to you and if you think we should come to your town, send us an email to news@dailymercury.com.au
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