Flynn, who recently took the helm, sees these events as a key way to connect with the community and establish Ramada as more than just a traveler’s destination, it’s a welcoming spot for locals as well.

“We’re in a beautiful, tucked-away location, and we want to make sure more people know they’re welcome here,” he said.

“Our goal is to create a space where locals feel just as at home as our guests.”

An Irish feast awaits this St Patrick’s Day

For St Patrick’s Day, diners can expect a menu bursting with authentic Irish flavours, crafted by Executive Chef Abell to bring a true taste of Ireland to Port Douglas.

“Offering special menus like these gives our guests a chance to experience different cultural events throughout the year,” Abell said.

Diners can expect slow-cooked beef and Guinness stew, simmered for hours, and a seafood-packed Irish chowder with smoked salmon, reef fish, mussels, and prawns. 

To finish, a traditional Irish apple cake, inspired by Abell’s family recipes, will be on offer.

To complete the experience, the resort will be serving themed cocktails and classic Irish drinks, including Guinness, Jameson whiskey, and Magners cider straight from Ireland.

A resort rooted in the community

Since stepping into his new role, Damian Flynn has been committed to enhancing the resort’s dining experience and strengthening ties with the local community.

After 15 years managing hotels in Asia, Flynn transitioned from high-rise city hotels with the Ovolo Group in Hong Kong and the Philippines to the relaxed resort lifestyle of Port Douglas.

“After years in high-density cities, I was ready for a lifestyle change, one that allows me to bring fresh ideas while building on the strong foundation already in place,” Flynn said.

Together with Executive Chef Glen Abell, he is expanding the resort’s 3Sixteen Bar & Bistro offerings and increasing engagement with locals.

To encourage more community involvement, the team is developing a 12-month event calendar featuring a seafood-themed Easter menu, grand final celebrations, and a Melbourne Cup event. 

Additionally, they are preparing to launch a refreshed bistro-meets-gastropub menu.

Supporting Indigenous careers

Beyond enhancing guest experiences, Ramada has a strong history of making a meaningful impact in the community, including providing career opportunities for Indigenous Australians. 

One of its most successful initiatives was a partnership with the National Indigenous Training Academy (NITA), an initiative under the Voyages Group that helps young Indigenous Australians gain valuable experience in the hospitality industry.

“NITA supports individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds or those with learning difficulties, providing them with the training they need to succeed,” Flynn explained.

Many graduates of the program have gone on to secure roles in the hospitality sector, using the skills they developed to build sustainable futures for themselves.

“It’s not about handouts but a hand-up,” Flynn said. “Our goal is to empower people with the skills they need to create a sustainable future for themselves.”