Tributes flow for former Fern’s Hideaway owner John Marto Martin

An icon of tourism on the Capricorn Coast is being remembered as charismatic, warm and energetic. Read the tributes.

Rockhampton and Yeppoon locals have been left shocked after the sudden death of a well-known community figure.

John “Marto” Martin, who owned Ferns Hideaway at Byfield with his wife Gen for decades, tragically died in his sleep on Monday.

His family announced his passing on Facebook, remembering their much loved husband and Dad as a charismatic, warm, energetic, kind and gentle man.

“There is a hole in our hearts today and the world will feel a whole lot more empty without our larger than life Marto to light it up,” the post said.

John Marto Martin is being remembered as a warm and energetic man.

“We will be having a cold Tia (Maria) and Diet Coke today and toasting to the warmest, kindest, most enthusiastic, charismatic and gentle man we know - and while our hearts break we will talk about all the amazing memories he left us with and say ‘What a treat!’.”

Marto was a well known face around Rockhampton and Yeppoon, owning the popular Ferns Hideaway with his wife Gen for 40 years.

The couple sold the hideaway in February so they could retire and spend more time with their families.

Originally from Victoria, Marto and Gen first came to Rockhampton on their honeymoon in 1977 and they never left.

Marto was recommended a real estate agent by a local policeman, before having to use a map and compass to find the block.

Marto and Gen first came to Rockhampton on their Honeymoon in 1977.

The Pioneer Cabin at Fern’s Hideaway was later built in 1981.

The couple worked hard across the next nine years to build their dream business and Fern’s Hideaway was opened in 1990.

Marto also attracted a fan base from playing gigs at the Criterion Hotel in Rockhampton during that time.

Since the announcement of his passing, hundreds of people have left tributes online remembering a mate and much loved musician.

Keppel MP Brittany Lauga described Marto as a “true gentleman and community champion”.

“Marto, thank you for all of the amazing music, love, happiness and good spirit you injected into the lives of so many,” she said.

“Even after Cyclone Marcia smashed your beloved Ferns Hideaway in 2015, you were all smiles and positivity.”

Councillor Drew Wickerson from Rockhampton Regional Council also shared his memories of Marto.

“I have never met a more talented, down-to-earth, hardworking, kind, gentle and caring person. There was not a song he couldn't sing nor tune he couldn’t play,” he said.

Marto gained a fan base in Rockhampton while playing gigs at the Criterion on a Friday night.

“I have shared some amazing times at Fern’s with Marto and Gen. Who could ever be mad enough to think we could create a full-sized pirate ship, yellow submarine or GOT Ice wall for a New Year’s Eve Party.

“Marto was always the life of the party and with his soulmate, Genevieve, not only carved Ferns out of the bush with their bare hands but had the fortitude and passion to rebuild it all over again after cyclone Marcia.”

Capricorn Enterprise CEO Mary Carroll describe Marto as “one of a kind”.

“Marto was a one of a kind, a storyteller through his music and an absolute professional and gentle soul in all aspects of his life,” she said.

“He was full of pride for Byfield and the Capricorn Coast, and we were privileged to have shared so many lasting memories.

“Our love is wrapping around Gen, Anna and Jess during this difficult time.”

Funeral details are yet to be announced.