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DYNAMIC DUOS

Greg & Michelle

MARINA TERRACES

G reg and Michelle’s story is a classic - tired of the gloomy weather

in Sunbury, Victoria, they set out in search of new horizons and
ultimately landed on the sunny shores of Port Douglas.
What started as a quest for a sea change transformed into an
exciting new life when they acquired and revitalised Marina Terraces, a
charming property and holiday retreat. This venture not only enriched their
lives but also inspired their grown children to join them in relocating, marking
an exciting new chapter for the entire family.
Let’s take a step back to the beginning of their journey. Greg, a seasoned real
estate professional since 1983, met Michelle at an office where he was sales
manager and she was the receptionist. Their collaboration laid the groundwork
for their relationship.
When Greg opened his own real estate office, he brought Michelle on board
to manage administration and launch a rental division. In 23 years, they grew
their Ray White franchise from a small office to one of the top performers in
Victoria and Australia, earning multiple awards and setting a new standard for
Ray White offices in the state.
Married in 1995, Greg and Michelle had two children and dedicated themselves
to their real estate business, often working six or even seven days a week to
achieve their goals. They built a remarkable reputation, with Greg excelling in
auctioneering and negotiation, while Michelle managed accounting systems as
a senior trust bookkeeper for more than 15 offices.
In 2018, they decided to leave real estate behind and embark on a new from all walks of life, the unit owners representa diverse age, creating a vibrant
adventure. Tired of the relentless Victorian weather and lifestyle, they set and varied community that is a pleasure to work within the Body Corporate.
their sights on Far North Queensland, dreaming of a place where they could Greg and Michelle’s productive working relationship is built on years of
enjoy the sun and a more relaxed way of life. They explored locations from collaboration in real estate. Michelle, a skilled bookkeeper specialising in
Mission Beach to Cairns but were drawn to Port Douglas for its charm, vibrant trust accounting, oversees all bookkeeping and systems, and as the director of
community, and business potential. first impressions at reception, she knows what needs to be done. Meanwhile,
When they stumbled across a neglected property on Port Douglas Road, in Greg manages day-to-day operations, including pool and garden areas, whilst
assisting guests to make sure their stay is memorable As on-site managers,
walking distance from Macrossan Street, in November 2019, they embraced
the challenge. Little did they know that shortly after taking over, COVID-19 they are always on the move, continuously planning to prepare for high and
would hit. However, this period proved beneficial, providing them with the low seasons, ensuring maximum occupancy for owners and optimising their
time to plan and execute renovations that would elevate their new business. returns.
Drawing on their extensive experience in real estate, they used the first six They cherish the laid-back atmosphere of Port Douglas. Despite their busy
months of the pandemic to develop their business model. schedules, they enjoy breaks at the local footy club or the scenic Tin Shed,
Greg and Michelle completely
transformed its appearance. Initially
hidden behind overgrown foliage,
they opened up the space and applied “TIRED OF THE RELENTLESS VICTORIAN WEATHER AND
a fresh coat of paint, making the
building standout to passersby. LIFESTYLE, THEY SET THEIR SIGHTS ON FAR NORTH
They replaced the outdated kidney- QUEENSLAND, DREAMING OF A PLACE WHERE THEY COULD
shaped pool with a larger modern
design, surrounded by tropical ENJOY THE SUN AND A MORE RELAXED WAY OF LIFE”
landscaping, and added a new
driveway, continuously enhancing
the property at every opportunity. In
just four years, their efforts paid off as often grabbing a beach chair and sandwich and heading to the beach just 80
they boosted their Booking.com rating from a modest 7.1 to an impressive 8.7. metres away. When the weather allows, they love fishing on their boat, just 15
Their renovations and hard work not only brightened the property but also minutes from home.
created a welcoming atmosphere that has captured the hearts of many guests,
ensuring they return time and again. As they near the fifth anniversary of their new venture, Greg and Michelle
reflect on their journey with satisfaction. Their time in Port Douglas has been
Since arriving in Port Douglas, Greg and Michelle have been greeted warmly a rewarding adventure, filled with hard work, family ties, and meaningful
by the community. They quickly connected with locals and tradespeople, many community connections. Looking ahead, they remain committed to improving
of whom, like themselves, had also moved from Victoria in search of a better their business while enjoying life in this beautiful part of the world.
lifestyle. They appreciate the friendly locals and believe the community is filled
with fascinating individuals, each with unique stories about why they chose to
live here. Living on-site at Marina Terraces has allowed them to meet people
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112 Port Douglas Magazine & Travel Planner