#67 SEPTEMBER 2026
BEYOND Here’s to the privilege of creating experiences of a lifetime What a month September was! We opened the season at the end of the world and closed it in the wildest forest of Vancouver Island, and along the way our Lodges earned some of the most prestigious recognition in luxury travel. It’s a month worth celebrating to the fullest, and that’s exactly what we’re going to do. Let’s start with Condé Nast Traveler, because behind every result are people like you. All nine of our Lodges made the Readers’ Choice lists, and our Australian Lodges swept the podium for Best Resorts in Australia and the South Pacific: Silky Oaks Lodge first, Southern Ocean Lodge second and Capella Lodge third. Silky Oaks was also ranked 15th among the Best Resorts in the World. Closer to home, Tierra Patagonia took third place among the Best Resorts in South America, with Tierra Atacama in ninth. These awards are voted entirely by guests, with more than 798,000 responses in the US edition, so every placing comes from someone who stayed with us and remembered it. Then there are the MICHELIN Keys. For the second year running, eight Beckons Lodges are on the list, and all eight now hold Two or Three Keys. Two Keys is an exceptional stay that is unique in every way, and Three Keys is the kind of experience MICHELIN calls a destination for the trip of a lifetime. Southern Ocean Lodge joins the 155 hotels in the world with Three Keys, Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge and Tierra Patagonia kept theirs, and Tierra Atacama moved up from One Key to Two. As we enter the final quarter of the year and celebrate these incredible wins, it feels like the right moment to pause and remember who we are. A few months into being Beckons, one thing is clear: we are a team led by magic and care. Magical experiences, a magical team and extraordinary care, both for the people who build that magic and for the memories our guests take home. Michael Crawford, our CEO, reminded us recently of what a privilege this work is. Our guests trust us with some of the most meaningful days of their lives, from anniversaries to trips with lifelong friends to escapes they’ve dreamed about for years, and we get to become part of the memories they carry forever. That matters, and it’s what Beckons does best: creating travel experiences that stay with our guests long after they’ve gone home. And the best part is that we’re not done. From the RMS rollout to our new website and the training on our new global HR system, we’re showing up every day, in the Lodges and in the offices, so that everything we do, from the first greeting to the farthest-flung excursion, is nothing short of unforgettable.
Thank you for making the magic real, and for everything still ahead.
Look what's been happening around our world!
At The Louise, locally sourced doesn’t get more local than this.
Kalen from Capella Lodge found the island view that makes every step of the Goathouse Cave trek worth it.
And of course, we couldn’t not add the coral reef to the Silky Oaks Lodge shoot.
Ben and Melody setting the scene for our new website, one reef shot at a time.
Ebony and Fatoumata from Southern Ocean Lodge hopped to it at the Kangaroo Island Half Marathon.
Class of ‘26 Graduating with Honors Another incredible season is in the books. Thank you, Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge team, for the records you broke, the dreams you made come true and the extraordinary work behind every moment.
Straight from the Heart of the Lodge Words from Sarah Cruse, General Lodge Manager 2026, wow, what a season, starting as a whirlwind, as we could feel the momentum in reservations hinting at the possibility that this season could be, in fact, THE SEASON. We truly had no idea what was coming our way! The team streamed into the property, blissfully ignorant that we were about to break all records for this extraordinary property. And it all starts with the people, as the Class of ‘26 was spectacular, one by one, the newbies flowed in, the returnees giving two thumbs up that they loved their new friends... and so it began, as the staff got into their groove, learned the ropes, explored the wilderness and jumped into our Clayoquot classic culture... Making Dreams Come True and Celebrating Life! I think of two separate events, one in early June and one in September, that act as my bookends for the season and truly mark what this year was all about: Sovereign Partners, in early June, donating $25,000 to our Reddfish program to restore our Bedwell River... This was inspired by the staff, particularly the guides who took them on a hike and edutained them on the cycle of life between the salmon, the bears and other wildlife, and the old-growth trees... Wow, our first big event and we raised $25,000: the impossible is possible! Fast forward to our end-of-season buy-out: a return guest with all of her friends to celebrate her 39th birthday... High energy, playful attitudes, kind and caring people, celebrating life... everything our team does, and here we are wrapping up the season with guests who reflect our energy... It was glorious to see the joy and happiness radiating from guests and team alike. Sprinkled throughout the season, our theme of celebrating life and making dreams come true was everywhere! We had a commitment ceremony on top of Ursus for a couple from the Netherlands, university graduations, special trips just for mother/daughter or father/son. Birthdays all season long, but so meaningful for the 70- and 80-year-olds! MultiGen families were the hit this year, with toddlers to doddlers: we got all the ages covered! Surprise proposals, including my favourite story of two of our past 2025 employees, Michael and Gesa from Germany, who returned to us this year as volunteers to help close camp and clean all of Staff Village... On a beautiful sunny day, on top of the Ivanhoe, Michael proposed to Gesa. Now that was a real Surprise and Delight moment, for all of us! We had an insanely busy summer, trials and tribulations, tears and cheers, peaks and valleys... Some loved their job, some did not, BUT everyone loved Clayoquot, and that is the common thread of passion throughout the team’s vibration... The love of the property and each other was the energy that flowed on good days and got us through the not-so-good days, understanding that working at Clayoquot is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, living in the house of Mother Nature, celebrating life under her canopy of treetops. When you come at every situation with that mantra front and center, then the impossible becomes possible in all we do... and that is what life is all about. Be in the present, be in the moment, understand that each and every action vibrates across the universe, and as we danced with our guests and each other, whether that floor be the forest, or the cookhouse, or the decks of tents and boats... we are making a difference in our lives and those of others. Clayoquot celebrated an extraordinary year with extraordinary humans. Blessed is the team of 2026 for being the heart of the property, the magic behind the show, the makers of all dreams coming true!
When the Stars Align! From the skies to the sea, our team made magic happen all season long. Countless moments became dreams come true, and these are just two of them.
Plan B Never Looked So Good! A story told By Geoff Hawkswell, our Experiences Manager
Some guests fit so naturally into life at CWL that they feel like part of the team. The Cramer family is one of them. Returning for their second early-season visit, they arrived with one wish: “Rain or shine, we’re going to do a Sip to Sky.” The previous year, it had rained on most of their adventures, with their only helicopter tour being fly-fishing in the rain. This year, the rain followed them back. Our team kept finding ways to make their stay special. On their second-last day, Dave, our Assistant Lodge Manager, and I spotted a possible weather window and pulled together a last-minute plan. With the helicopter booked and the family ready, we flew under the clouds to an island on the open west coast for a bespoke Sip to Sea. The weather held. Rainbows appeared, eagles soared, and the Cramers finally had their CWL moment. When they departed the following day with tears of gratitude, I felt how much that shared experience meant to all of us. Moments like these go beyond the job: they become memories shared between friends.
The Magic Stays in the Room The magic didn’t stop at the door of the tent. Behind every guest who felt at home was a Housekeeping team that turned a room into a place to belong, one thoughtful detail at a time. This season, two of our housekeepers, Gabi and Genesis, did exactly that, leaving messages that made our guests feel truly welcome. One of our youngest guests had built a fort on the floor of his tent. When he came back from his activities, the girls had built him a fort of his own on the couch, with a handwritten letter just for him. Real hospitality means making everyone feel at home, big or small, and it took a little bit of magic. A wonderful season is made of everyone’s magic, and this team had plenty to go around.
Everything but Sasquatch A story told by Derek Kyostia, our Marine Manager
I’ve been on a fair few boat rides in my day, either dedicated to looking for wildlife or just merrily observing along the way, both in the Clayoquot area and further afield. Some days are better than others, a bright star in a kaleidoscope cosmos. But every now and then, the stars align and Mother Nature delivers a gobsmacking gut punch that leaves you breathless, and THIS day was one of THOSE days! It started off innocently enough: shuttle some good folks to Flores Island to embark on The Wildside, an otherwise benign 45-minute commute in relatively sheltered waters in our wee little, open-air RHIB, Orange Peel. The forecast looked divine and did not disappoint: bluebird skies, calm seas and not a breath of wind. About 30 minutes in, having rounded Hippie Point, the gentlemen spotted a blow to our starboard. I steered the boat in for a closer look. Positioned there beside the gentle giant, I turned off the engines and we sat on the placid waters just listening to the explosive breaths of the grey whale before us, spectacularly backlit against the rising sun. Perfection! At this point, I honestly thought I had outdone myself, silently congratulating myself on a job well done. Changing lives out there on the North Pacific! However, I was beside myself to learn over the radio that orca had just been spotted, nearby and just a short detour from our intended destination. I was absolutely tickled to have the blessing of the guests to roll the dice and see if we couldn’t rendezvous with these elusive critters. And the killer whales did not disappoint! Breaching and spy-hopping and tail-lobbing and all the things! At this point, I’m already starting to consider divine intervention!? Now already collectively giving thanks for these wildlife extravaganzas, word has it on the radio that just two minutes away, sea wolves, the ghosts of the rainforest, have been spotted basking in the early-morning sun. Negotiations with guests were brief. By this time, they had fully surrendered their day to my cause and could feel my excitement! And off we set, moving even further away from our Wildside target, but fully recognizing the special opportunity at hand. And there they were, as advertised, two wolves in digestive comas, having just feasted on an intertidal score, basking in the warm, golden light of morning. Although I appreciate the guests innocently inquiring as to whether the morning’s sightings up until this point were “unusual,” I reassured them that they didn’t need me to affirm their suspicions. The vibe on the boat was high and my excitement was infectious. They ate it up! Now completely content and still very much processing the morning as it unfolded, we set course for the Wildside. For the two or three hours I spent at anchor while the guests immersed themselves in ancient old growth, I reflected on the morning and reminded myself how fortunate I was to live and work in such an incredible, pristine corner of the world! With the guests safely back on the boat and reunited, we again laughed at the amazing morning we had shared and entertained the idea that the only thing left to see was the mythical Sasquatch; otherwise, we had ticked all the boxes, including some of the most sought-after but rarely seen charismatic megafauna of Vancouver Island. But the show wasn’t over! We set sail for home and, nearly back to the dock, deep within the Bedwell, we spotted not one but THREE mola mola, aka the Oceanic Sunfish, another rarity but this time from the deep. The foreign fish is always a crowd-pleaser, their alien features eerily glowing in the sun. Back at the dock, and from that point on, every time I encountered the guests who were enjoying a week-long stay, it was always hugs all around! What an experience, and shared with some of the most lovely humans ever! A day to remember forever. Thank you, Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge! See you next season for more stories, more magic and even better memories.
End-of-Season Party! Our last and final celebration of the month was none other than our End-of-Season Party! A chance for everyone to finally let their hair down, kick off their boots, hit the dance floor, enjoy a delicious meal, and raise a glass (or two!) to another incredible season in the Bedwell Valley. After months of hard work, long days, and plenty of adventures along the way, it was the perfect opportunity to switch off, share a few laughs, and make those final memories with close friends and colleagues. Of course, there were plenty of goodbyes to be said, but not before one last night of fun together! The evening also gave Sarah the opportunity to bring everyone together under one roof and personally thank the incredible team behind another successful season. From the early starts and late finishes to the countless behind-the-scenes efforts that keep this place running, every single person has played a part in making CWL what it is. A heartfelt thank you to each and every one of you who poured your heart, soul, blood, sweat, and tears into making the 2026 season such a success. Your hard work, dedication, teamwork, and support never go unnoticed, and the magic of this place simply wouldn't happen without you. Here's to the memories we've made, the friendships we've built, the challenges we've conquered, and another unforgettable season in the books. Until we meet again in the Bedwell Valley!
Around our world!
SLK hosted a CyberCX buyout this month, and our team delivered concepts never seen here before.
The friendliest faces at Longitude 131: meet our Front Office Team!
Luis Ruiz from the Experiences team at Tierra Patagonia is smashing it in trail running! Fresh sheets, fresh habits: Housekeeping at Tierra Atacama is up to date on prevention, with RUV training and the TMERT protocol.
Of course he had a cheer squad! Ari, Jose and Paula brought the Tierra Patagonia spirit to cheer Luis on!
Famil time! Darcy, Kirsten and Shan from Guest Services, and Martyna and Louis from F&B, explored the Torbreck Hillside Experience. The Louise team, always up for a new adventure!
Learning from the best: Vanessa joins Glen for end-of-month retail training at SLK
One System, Nine Lodges RMS roll out in Chile Great stays begin long before arrival. Meet RMS, our new global reservations system, and the team that made the switch behind the scenes. Led by Zach, Carlisle and Courtney, with Alie Stuart and Vicente Henriquez as key players in the execution.
Why it matters Zach, VP of Operations Americas As part of our journey to become the best experiential luxury hospitality brand in the world, we needed to consolidate our systems and bring all of our guest data onto the same platforms globally. Integrating the Chile properties onto RMS will unlock our ability to service guests for any Lodge, at any time of day. Additionally, this change creates opportunities for our team members to gain exposure and work with all of our properties, not just the ones serviced locally. The shift to RMS will consolidate our data and allow us to learn more about our guests, track their stays and enhance personalization. Our teams will have access to previous stay data across the entire portfolio, with RMS serving as the guest record where preferences and stay history will help us serve them better in the future. RMS will also allow for future development and enhancements, creating better tools for our teams as we grow.
What was the main challenge of the project Alie Stuart, Revenue and Distribution Manager The biggest challenge was timing. A system change like this has to happen while the Lodges are open (or almost open) and guests are arriving, so there’s no pause button. On top of that, it overlapped with other major projects, like our new website and booking engine, which all connect to each other. A change in one area often affected another, so go-live dates shifted a few times as we worked through it all. What helped most was flexibility and close teamwork across Sydney, Santiago and the Lodges. That said, go-live is really just the first milestone. A change this size takes time to bed in, so it’s still very much a work in progress, and we’re grateful for everyone’s patience as we get there. Tierra Atacama and Tierra Patagonia now use the same reservations system as the rest of the Beckons Lodges. Simply put, all nine Lodges now speak the same language, a booking, a rate or a guest profile looks the same whether it’s in Chile, Australia, New Zealand or Canada. Once everything is fully settled, that will make it much easier for us to share knowledge, support each other across teams and see the full picture of our business in one place.
Zach: I am sincerely thankful for all the preparation, hard work and adaptability our teams have displayed over the past several weeks. These changes can be challenging, and our teams have remained positive and focused on ensuring we are successful.
Histories beyond the call
Nick and the Mountain of Luggage Please join us in congratulating Nick, our latest Over and Above award recipient at Huka Lodge! We recently had a VIP group in house whose departure plans changed at very short notice. The guests arrived with far more luggage than their organisers had anticipated, which led to a request for a luggage pull at 10.00pm the night before departure, followed by loading every bag onto a truck at 4.45am. This wasn’t something we’d faced before. Rather than say no, we called on our super sub, Porter Nick, who agreed on the spot to take it on. Needless to say, it was a hectic night, and thanks to Nick the group left on time with every bag accounted for.
This is exactly the kind of can-do attitude that makes Huka Lodge special. Nick, you’ve more than earned the $150 Over and Above prize. Once you’ve caught up on some sleep, come claim your reward. Thank you, Nick!
A Souvenir Like No Other, Painted by Chrissie It all began with a simple chat. A couple visiting Silky Oaks Lodge from India stopped to talk with Chrissie, our Artist in Residence, and fell in love with what she was creating. So much so that they asked her for something very special: a painting of a memory from their stay. They chose a photo they had taken of the creek right in front of the Lodge, and Chrissie got to work. After more than a week of brushstrokes and patience, the painting is finished and now on its way to India, so a little piece of Silky Oaks will be waiting for them at home.
The Wind Is Up, and So Are We A new season has begun at Tierra Patagonia, and what a start! Thank you to the whole team for the work, care and warmth behind it.
Words from Esteban Bagnis, our Hotel Manager I want to take this start of the season to thank the entire Tierra Patagonia team from the bottom of my heart. Getting here was the result of a great deal of work, commitment and effort. Throughout the winter, many people were working behind the scenes, preparing every detail, improving our spaces and making sure we could begin this new season in the best possible way. And today, seeing the Lodge up and running, I think all that effort is clearly reflected. But there is something that makes me even prouder: the way we are working together. It feels like a united, solid and committed team. You can feel the flow, the calm and the confidence with which everyone takes their place and contributes from their role. And that energy comes through. Our guests feel it, but above all, we feel it ourselves every day when we arrive at work. I am deeply proud to be part of the family we have built at Tierra Patagonia. A wonderful group of people, with camaraderie, respect and a genuine dedication to doing things well. Being the best is not only about delivering great service or having an extraordinary Lodge. It is, above all, about the people who bring all of that to life every day. Thank you for the enormous effort throughout the winter, for this wonderful start to the season and, especially, for the way we support each other, look after each other and work together. It is a true privilege to be part of this team.
Road to the Grand Opening Every opening has a road behind it, and the road to Tierra Patagonia’s began long before anyone arrived. Throughout the year, our Lodge Managers and Department Heads planned and prepared every detail, so that by August everything would be ready and clear. That was when our first seasonal team arrived and the work took shape. Onboarding training brought everyone together and set the foundations for what came next. Then came the menu tastings. Dish by dish, we made sure the menu was incredible and that everyone in Food & Beverage knew it inside out. At our Guide School, we prepared the Experiences team to show guests the very best of Patagonia. Behind the scenes, the staff canteen and team spaces got an upgrade, because looking after our people is part of looking after our guests. Operational preparations were underway in every area, and our department heads got their teams ready for day one. In September, the full team arrived, followed by our very first guests. Thanks to everyone’s effort, from the early planning to the last detail, Tierra Patagonia opened on time and ready to welcome them.
Around our world!
Need a bouquet? Call Yasue at Huka Lodge, who is trying her hand at flower arranging!
Fresh face, epic trail: Longitude 131 welcomes Yoon to the Mala walk at Uluru, with Cowboy Mitch and Thushara!
Celebrating Fiestas Patrias? Ask Diego at Tierra Atacama for our fancy terremoto. You’ll love it!
Rise and shine at Capella Lodge: Ella, Pip and Liv know how to do a Lord Howe sunrise.
Cheers from Dune House! Wine tasting time at Longitude 131.
Histories beyond the call
Under the Patagonian Snow There are moments that define who we are as a team. This is one of those stories. It all began during a routine Housekeeping service. While preparing one of our guest rooms, a member of the team removed a small ball of paper that appeared to have no value. She didn’t know that inside it was a dental night guard that one of our guests used every night to sleep. Hours later, the guest approached the team, deeply concerned. This was not just another personal belonging; it was something essential to her comfort and wellbeing. The worry in her voice immediately turned the situation into a priority for everyone. The Housekeeping team responded straight away. They carefully searched through the available waste bags, hoping to find the night guard. But they soon received discouraging news: the waste had already been collected and taken to the compactor.
Ruth Bahamonde Housekeeping Supervisor
It was around eight in the morning. Outside, Patagonia was showing its full force. The temperature was bitterly cold, and snow covered the landscape surrounding the hotel. Just when it seemed there was nothing more that could be done, one of the most important qualities of our team came to life: supporting one another. Alejandro, from our Maintenance team, saw how concerned his colleagues were and decided to act. Calmly and determinedly, he realised there was still one possibility. Without hesitation, he got into his vehicle and drove to the waste compactor, prepared to attempt what seemed impossible. In the snow and freezing temperatures, he began a search that few people would have been willing to undertake. Inside a huge metal container filled with bags and waste, he went through them one by one, following the information about which room they had come from.
Alejandro Olivera Maintenance Manager
Time passed and the chances of finding it grew smaller, but he refused to give up. More than forty minutes went by. And then, something extraordinary happened. In the very last bag, tucked away in a corner of the compactor, he found the night guard. He immediately returned to the hotel. It was carefully washed, sanitised and prepared to be returned to the guest in a special bag, together with cleaning tablets. What only hours earlier had seemed permanently lost became a moment of enormous relief and gratitude for our guest. But this story is about much more than recovering a lost item. It is a story about people who refuse to give up when a guest needs their help. It is the story of a Housekeeping team that responded quickly and took responsibility. It is the story of a Maintenance team member who was willing to face the cold, the snow and a mountain of waste to find a solution. It is the story of different departments working together, supporting one another and pursuing the same goal. At Tierra Patagonia, we believe excellence is not measured by the problems we manage to avoid, but by the way we respond when challenges arise. That is why we would like to give special recognition to Ruth and the Housekeeping team, together with Alejandro and the Maintenance team, for demonstrating a passion for service that goes far beyond any job description. Because finding a small night guard among hundreds of bags of waste might seem like an impossible task. But for a team committed to its guests and to one another, impossible is just a word. This is a story of passion, commitment, teamwork and extraordinary service, and it reflects how this team lives the value “People Before Everything.”
On the Road, On the Map
Beckons on the Global Stage A particular highlight was PURE Life Experiences in Marrakech, where we exhibited for the first time under the Beckons name, proudly establishing our new brand. Rachel and Stephen represented Beckons on the stand, bringing our collection of exceptional Lodges and their extraordinary destinations to life. Alongside a packed schedule of trade appointments (112 meetings in total across three days), which we strategically divided between traditional and emerging markets, Rachel also led a dedicated day of media meetings. This provided an invaluable opportunity to share the Beckons story, showcase our latest news and developments, and build relationships with 16 of the world’s most captivating travel editors and journalists. Rachel also attended The World’s 50 Best Hotels awards ceremony in Paris (now rebranded to The50), where Huka Lodge was recognised at #82 in the world, a huge achievement, and it was an honour to fly the flag for the Lodge team. The programme also included a Hoteliers’ Dinner, an intimate networking evening celebrating excellence in luxury hospitality and fostering connections with leading hotel executives and industry professionals. In addition, 50 Best Talks explored key industry trends, leadership, business challenges and the future of hospitality, offering valuable insights and opportunities to connect with influential voices across the global hotel industry. Across all five events, what has stood out most is the genuine love and affection our travel partners have for our Lodges. It’s incredibly rewarding to hear their stories of unforgettable guest experiences and to share the unique experiences, landscapes and people that make each destination so special. Behind every one of those stories are our remarkable Lodge teams, welcoming guests and visiting travel advisors every day and creating the moments that inspire such extraordinary loyalty and affection. These gatherings have also delivered tangible business results, with plenty of meaningful commercial conversations taking place, new opportunities emerging and more to come. Leads and bookings are already flowing through to our reservations teams, which is fantastic to see and a testament to the strength of our partnerships and the continued demand for the unique experiences our Lodges offer. They’ve also provided a wonderful platform to tell the evolving story of Beckons, bringing our collection of remarkable Lodges together under one brand, united by a shared philosophy of exceptional hospitality, authentic experiences and a deep connection to place.
Behind the Beckons Magic: Emilie Underhill, Equine Experiences Manager How did your love for horses begin? My love for horses began at a very young age. My favourite film was always Black Beauty and I grew up right next door to a stable where I started regular lessons at the age of 6. When did you know this was what you wanted to do for a living? I think I always knew I was going to do something with horses for a living, but I wasn’t sure exactly what. It was during covid that I got my first remote ranch job, and I haven’t looked back since. It’s safe to stay working with horses in the wilderness is a true passion of mine. I have now been here for 3 years and have loved every minute of it.
Emilie riding Sailor, a 7-year-old Haflinger and one of our go-to guide horses at CWL.
Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge is truly remote. Did you ever imagine yourself living in a place like this? I love the remoteness of this place, and I spent my childhood and youth daydreaming of living in a cabin in the woods. So yes, I always imagined myself living somewhere as remote as this.
What is your favorite landscape or spot to ride through? My favourite landscape to ride through would have to be the confluence. You get a great view of Ursus Mountain and it’s where the Bedwell River meets the Ursus River, also a great spot to see wildlife…deer, bear, and elk! You know all 15 horses personally. Do you have a favorite? (No pressure, we won't tell the others!) It’s impossible to choose a favourite horse. I spend all day, everyday with them all and they all have such unique and individual personalities I could never have a favourite. There are different things that I love about them all individually. All 15 of them are my favourite! What does being part of an all-women barn team mean to you? Being apart of an all women team is super important to me, it’s incredibly empowering. I find it very rewarding to see the team I work with build confidence and realize how capable and strong they are. I think too in a field where traditionally men would have this role its very special being an all women team, I love it!! What is the most challenging part of your job? I would say the remoteness can be a challenge in the job, just in the sense of logistics. Getting things to and from the lodge such as hay, horses, feed etc. requires lots of planning ahead…months in advance. This job has made me much better at planning ahead! What is the most surprising thing guests learn about horses? Guests are often surprised to learn how social the horses are and that they have their own politics / hierarchy out in the pasture. I think a lot of the time people and our guests don’t realize how much personality and emotion the horses have. They truly are a very tightknit herd, and each horse has its place and role in the that herd. Is there a story from your work that you remember with a smile? There are so many stories that make me smile it’s hard to choose one out of everything. I would say that this will be my opportunity to shout out a very important team member of the barn. The senior wrangler Paige Banasky, who has been working in the barn since the summer of 2023, a year before me. It has been so incredible to watch her grow and mature into the role she has now. She’s incredibly hard working, smart and literally has my back and supports me in everything, I couldn’t do the busy guest seasons without her!! I would say watching her grow over the last 3 years is something that makes me smile. Quick fire: describe your job in three words. Three words that describe my job are rewarding, challenging (in a good way) and fun!
Around our world!
The kitchen team at Huka has not lost its sense of humour! A live crab on Kerry’s chair gave him the fright of his life when he pulled it out.
Multitasking, SLK style: Ben shows the Team how to blow and paint the car park lines at the same time.
Fiestas Patrias at Tierra Atacama! Come and join us for a good empanada.
Taca-taca, anyone? Santiago celebrated Fiestas Patrias with a championship full of friendly rivalry.
Sand between our toes, sparks in the sky: a beach bonfire at SOL.
Ever heard of a yincana? Mauro and Jose sure have! Our Fiestas Patrias celebration in Santiago was full of flour and sweets. Lazy afternoon? Not at Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge! Our team went for a Staff Triathlon: swim 2 km, bike 10 km, run 5 km.
Grand Final day, pastry style! SOL celebrated the AFL Grand Final with some very special treats.
Welcome the New Joiners! Our Beckons team is growing, and we couldn’t be happier! By the time you read this, they will already be with us, so be sure to say hi! Zach Sipherd, Director of IT Zach joined us on Monday 19 October in our Denver office, and will lead our IT function globally, from infrastructure and security to our property systems and technology roadmap. With more than a decade in hospitality technology, including Atomic Provisions, Wagamama USA and Sage Hospitality Group, he knows systems have to work the moment a guest walks in. Make time to meet him: the best technology ideas will come from you.
Carol Smith, VP, Strategic Capital From first sketch to opening day: Carol joined us on 12 October to lead our capital programs, particularly across the Americas. With more than 25 years of development experience, including nine years taking the $600 million Hall of Fame Village from master plan to opening day, she is exactly the person we need as Beckons grows.
Melanie Schinkel, Sales Manager, Americas Say hello to Melanie, who joined us on 5 October and works with Stephen Marshall from Las Vegas. For the past four and a half years she led Tourism Australia’s Aussie Specialist Program across North America, building deep relationships with many of the region’s leading travel advisors. She arrives with a wealth of destination expertise and a great Australian network.
Beth Parkin, Director, Global Reservations & Journey Design Beth joined us on 12 October and is based in our Avalon office. With more than 20 years leading reservations, sales and service operations across hotels, travel and aviation, including IHG, Four Seasons and Qantas, she will lead our global reservations team and drive our evolution towards a true 24/7/365 service, strengthening pre-arrival planning and personalisation.
Angelina Martino, Marketing Manager, APAC Last but not least, welcome Angelina! She joined us on 12 October and is based in our Avalon office, working with Rachel Crowley. Angelina comes from Hilton Sydney, where she led marketing and communications for the brand’s flagship property in Australia, and she is a pro at making global strategy feel consistent, compelling and locally relevant. Now she brings that thinking to our APAC Lodges.
A Day to Remember at Capella Lodge
Hannah and Ben joined us for dinner at the restaurant.
Pia and Jose, officially stoked: the view from Malabar Hill was worth every step.
Latham with the catch of the day: two delicious crayfish. It doesn’t get fresher than this! Full van, full hearts: the Capella crew and Craig on the way to the Lord Howe Island Brewery to say farewell to Penny.
Sunset at Lagoon Beach and a big smile on Dan and Kat’s faces Our dearest Penny and the Housekeeping team enjoying a celebratory drink and a cheese plate after 12 years of service.
Pip and Shaani heading off on Shaani’s new e-bike, Kenti
String lights, cold drinks and good company: Hannah, Ella and Pip at the Brewery.
Madi, Pip and Ella at sunset, with a front-row view of Mt Gower and Mt Lidgbird. Not a bad backdrop!
Game On: New Roles, New Adventures Behind every promotion is someone who stepped up, went beyond and embraced a new challenge. Here’s to those who have grown with us. Congratulations! Alejandro Iturra Promotion to Sous Chef, Tierra Atacama Congratulations, Alejandro, on this well-deserved promotion! Your experience, expertise and long career are a great asset to our team, and they are exactly the piece we needed to keep strengthening our kitchen. I’m delighted to walk this path with you and to support you with whatever you need as you keep growing in this new role. I’m sure your knowledge and experience will be key for the team and for driving our operation forward. I’m so happy you are part of this project, and I look forward to working together on this next chapter!
Carlos Márquez Promotion to Chef de Partie, Tierra Atacama Congratulations, Carlos, on this great step! It makes me really happy to see your eagerness to learn, your commitment and the attitude with which you take on every new challenge. Early in your career, you have shown a real willingness to keep growing, training and developing as a professional. This promotion is a tremendous opportunity to keep learning, take on new responsibilities and show your full potential. I know it’s a big challenge, but I’m fully confident you will rise to it with the same energy, commitment and enthusiasm that have brought you here. You have my full support, and I’m here to help with whatever you need. Best of luck in this new chapter, Carlos!
Estephanie Vigo Food & Beverage Supervisor, Longitude 131° Estephanie, congratulations on your promotion to Food & Beverage Supervisor! This is a big step forward, and we couldn’t be happier for you. Stepping into this role means taking on new responsibilities and new challenges, and we know you will meet them with the same dedication that has brought you here. We’re excited to watch you grow in this new chapter, and we’re here to support you along the way. Wishing you every success, Estephanie!
Showcase 2026:
An Evening in Sydney Showcase 2026 was the consumer showcase hosted jointly by Spencer Travel, Mosman Travel and Mary Rossi Travel, held at the Shangri-La Sydney on Wednesday 16 September, with Kellie and Ali attending. Each of these well-respected agencies invited both loyal clients and new prospects to meet their preferred suppliers, and that is where Beckons came in. With well over 200 guests through the doors, our sales team spent the evening inspiring attendees to choose Beckons for their next special trip.
PS: Australian Lodges, Huka Lodge has a message for you! Our resident rugby expert Lambert would like to thank the five Australian Lodges for a wonderful Bledisloe Cup series. The All Blacks won 50-19 at Eden Park and 43-21 in Sydney, a clean sweep and a 13th straight win over the Wallabies. The Cup stays in New Zealand, as it has since 2003, and Lambert has not taken off his black jersey since. We did say, may the best team win. It was us. See you at the Rugby World Cup next year, mates!
This Month's Roll of Honor Paul Bonnet Maintenance Team - Huka Lodge
Thank you for your valuable contribution in helping every department without hesitation, often working through your breaks to keep things running smoothly for everyone. Your workmates don't always realise just how much you do, until you're away!
Martyna Ciecielag & Gavin Karunaratne Kitchen & Restaurant Team - The Louise
Double the celebration at The Louise! Our Employees of the Month are Martyna Ciecielag from the Restaurant and Gavin Karunaratne from the Kitchen. Their professionalism and dedication make every guest experience shine. A huge win for the Food & Beverage Team. Congratulations, Martyna and Gavin! Olivia Bartolo Food & Beverage Team - Longitude 131°
Congratulations to Olivia Bartolo, our Employee of the Month from the Food & Beverage Team at Longitude 131! Thank you for your professionalism and your positive energy, Olivia. Well deserved!
Javiera Fernández Experience Team - Tierra Patagonia
We chose Javi for the energy she has put into making coordination between teams work better every day. Patient, dedicated and always looking for more efficient ways of doing things, she looks after our equipment, our guests and her colleagues alike. In her new role she takes on a new challenge every day with a great attitude and an infectious energy, and she often makes life a little easier for all of us. Thank you, Javi! Constancia Bautista Kitchen Team - Tierra Atacama
This month we recognise Constancia from our staff canteen, who shows us every day that a smile and a positive attitude are our best tools. Her professionalism and great work inspire us all. Thank you, Constancia, we truly value everything you do. Congratulations!
Game On: New Roles, New Adventures
Behind every promotion is someone who stepped up, went beyond and embraced a new challenge. Here’s to those who have grown with us. Congratulations! Liliana Santamaría Promotion to Category Manager, Beckons Santiago
Congratulations, Lily! Thanks to your ability to lead and organise, along with your rigour and dedication, this next step in your career is more than well deserved. We know you will contribute a great deal to the company, now with a more strategic view of your role. Keep it up, Lily, we need you! Jesus Benitez Novoa Promotion to Housekeeping Manager Longitude 131°
Congratulations, Jesus! Stepping into the role of Housekeeping Manager is a well-earned milestone, and we’re excited to see what you bring to this new chapter. We’ll be right beside you every step of the way. Níber Farfán Promotion to Senior Reservations Executive Beckons Santiago
Niber, you have been promoted to Senior Reservations Executive, and we couldn’t be prouder! Congratulations on this new chapter. We’re excited to see what you will bring to the role, and to keep growing together. Noah Cain Promotion to Housekeeping Supervisor Longitude 131°
Noah has stepped up to Housekeeping Supervisor, and the whole Longitude 131 team is cheering him on. It’s a great moment to celebrate how far he has come and to look forward to the challenges ahead. Congratulations, Noah! Javiera Vargas Promotion to Reservations Executive Beckons Santiago
Javiera Vargas is now a Reservations Executive, and the whole team is celebrating with her! A new role brings new challenges and plenty of room to grow, and we know she will make the most of it. Congratulations, Javiera!