BEACON OF HOPE: Exchange Hotel in Mossman transforms into backpackers resort amidst short-term housing issues

BACKPACKER’S HAVEN

Jamie Jansen

Journalist

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The historic Mossman Hotel becomes a backpackers' paradise. Picture: Mossman Exchange Hotel

Amidst the looming closure of Dougies Backpackers Resort and Pandanus next year, there’s good news on the horizon. The Exchange Hotel in Mossman has undergone a transformation into a backpackers resort, soon to be providing 26 rooms.

Behind the transformation are Nathan Bonneau-Plassa and Julien Bonneau, the couple who also runs Turtle Cove Resort. 

Their decision to acquire the Exchange Hotel was primarily driven by the pressing need for accommodations in the wake of Dougies and Pandanus shutting down.

“When we heard about the closure of Dougies and Pandanus, we became deeply concerned for the Douglas Shire,” Mr Bonneau-Plassa explained.

“Many businesses relying on backpackers will struggle to find housing, risking their ability to stay open. This drove our decision, my husband Julien and me, to see this as an opportunity.”

A huge undertaking

The Exchange Hotel, formerly a historic hotel dating back to 1880, is currently undergoing a comprehensive renovation with plans to welcome guests in two weeks. 

While still holding onto its classic charm, the resort now features both dormitories and private rooms, along with modern amenities such as a cinema room, gym, games room, media room, pool, and a welcoming beer garden.

Mr Bonneau-Plassa shared that the renovation of the building is a huge undertaking.

“When we just acquired the hotel, the pool was in poor condition, completely black,” he noted. “We also removed a significant portion of the old gardens and replanted them.

“Currently, our focus is on upgrading the accommodation facilities, aiming to create a lifestyle resort tailored for backpackers, perfectly suited to their needs.

“With our experience from Turtle Cove and the support of Turtle Cove’s owners, I am confident that we can successfully bring this project to fruition. Our goal is to make a positive impact on our community.”

The hostel is currently looking for four people to live rent free for the next two weeks to assist with cleaning and painting.

“We have some rooms available for people that are in a hard spot, we would like to help them out on a short term basis and to try and get them back on their feet again.”

“If you're interested, please email [email protected].”

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