03 Jul 2013
Words Tim Admin

Past present and future

The theme of this Informer is all about what lies ahead. It came about when we first sat down to brainstorm ideas for the issue. The Federal Budget had just been delivered, full of economic caution and fairly uninspiring. The political argy-bargy of the world’s longest election campaign was already wearing thin. It seemed everyone we spoke to was just waiting for it all to be over, so they could get on with life. So, we decided to ask all our contributors, and a few more very switched-on industry contacts, to gaze into their crystal balls and tell us what we might expect over the coming year. Then, as if we needed reminding of just how unpredictable things can be, along comes a new (recycled) prime minister, even without an election. To be fair to all our crystal ball-gazers, most of their views were expressed prior to Kevin Rudd’s return. But, they remain relevant, regardless of the politics. Enjoy their insights. There actually is plenty to look forward to. While everyone was busy looking forward, I also had a wonderful opportunity to step back in time. And I can’t tell you what a pleasure it’s been. With a few of our key personnel on leave, I stepped in to help look after their clients. I relished the chance to get back to the coalface, calling on motel and management rights operators. When I started Resort Brokers all those years ago, I spent the first 11 years driving 2000 kilometres per week, every week, knocking on doors and getting to know people in the accommodation industry. I really enjoyed getting back to spend more time with the terrific people in the tourism and hospitality business. And I was amazed how many of you I already knew, because our paths had crossed before during my 28 years in the industry in Australia. One couple said they attended a seminar in 1994 where I spoke about buying motels as a commercial investment. Afterwards, through Resort Brokers, they had bought a property on the NSW-Queensland border. Well, they still own it, and they are now about to embark on a second investment. I was surprised and delighted they seemed to remember everything I said back at that seminar, and it had served them well. They were very gracious in saying so. I found the average age of operators has changed from a quarter of a century ago. They’re younger now, which is great for the industry. But they are still fantastic, hard-working, decent people full of enthusiasm. Most seem to have a real zest for the job, which is why we should look ahead with optimism. And the figures actually do tell a story of healthy activity. At Resort Brokers, we had a really strong 2012-13, achieving the highest annual sales tally in five years. We wrapped up the year with more than 120 sales concluded. And 2013-14 looks even stronger. As I write, we already have over 55 contracts in the pipeline. So enjoy this first issue of the new financial year, stay confident, and reignite your passion for our industry. You’ll find plenty to inspire, including great profiles of Staywell Hospitality Group, a proud Aussie company making its mark overseas, and highly respected Quest Apartments CEO Paul Constantinou. Please send your feedback to: carlacook@resortbrokers.com.au or PO Box 5004, West End Q 4101