15 Jul 2022
Words Louise Brannelly The Courier-Mail

Outback retreat picked up for $8.8m

The popular boutique Saltbush Retreat in Longreach in western Queensland has changed hands for $8.8m in a deal brokered by ResortBrokers.

ResortBrokers managing director Trudy Crooks says the 44-key property, comprised of slab huts, outback cabins and homestead stables on 2.535ha, generated a net profit of $1.65m in 12 months.

"Selling the freehold going concern of this property is a great example of the latest market trend of stitching the freehold and leasehold back together and going to market in one line," Ms Crooks says.

"Just like splitting properties was great for the market when we launched this concept in 1985, this is a definite win-win for all parties in the current market, where the demand for freehold going concern hotels, motels and parks is like nothing we've ever seen.

"This boutique outback lodging, with its iconic outdoor clawfoot baths, has won a slew of awards, including the 2019 Queensland Tourism Award for Self-Contained Accommodation and the Outback Queensland Tourism Award for Accommodation (2019).

"With nearby attractions including the Australian Stockman's Hall of Fame, Qantas Founders Museum, Australian Age of Dinosaurs...and Cobb & Co Stagecoach Tour,  we always knew this trophy asset would hold great appeal."

The identities of the vendors and purchasers have not been disclosed.