Billionaire couple Andrew and Nicola Forrest buy Olivia Newton-John’s Byron Bay wellness spa and resort ‘for about $30million’
Olivia Newton-John’s luxury Byron Bay resort, Gaia, has found a buyer.
The boutique wellness retreat was purchased by Australian billionaire couple Andrew and Nicole Forrest for an estimated $30million, reports Adelaide Now.
Andrew, best known by his nickname Twiggy, is a mining and cattle tycoon who owns the R.M. Williams brand.
Sold! Olivia Newton-John’s luxury Byron Bay resort, Gaia, has been snapped up for $30million
‘As custodians of truly unique Australian experiences, we understand and deeply respect the founding vision of Gaia, which has transformed a wellness philosophy into one of Australia’s most celebrated destinations,’ Mrs Forrest said in a statement.
‘We are investing in and developing unique and meaningful places – places that have the capacity to enhance the health and wellbeing of individuals and communities.’
The Forrests are known for their philanthropy, and are known for donating large portions of their fortune to charity.
Buyers: The boutique wellness retreat was just purchased by Australian billionaire couple, Andrew and Nicole Forrest
Back in April, Olivia announced that she was selling her famed Gaia retreat in Byron Bay just months after it swept the World Luxury Hotel Awards.
The entertainer revealed in a statement at the time that she was ready to ‘pass the baton’ to new owners.
‘Having won so many humbling and outstanding awards, we have decided it is time to ‘pass the baton’ to new custodians so they can continue our positive message that Gaia is ‘your timeout to reconnect, breathe and surrender,’ she said.
Luxury: ‘We are investing in and developing unique and meaningful places – places that have the capacity to enhance the health and wellbeing of individuals and communities,’ Mrs Forrest said in a statement
‘It’s bittersweet, but as a team, we always agreed that we would ‘go out on top’ and we couldn’t be more proud of the Gaia we have built with our incredible family team,’ she continued.
‘We will miss our wonderful guests and amazing staff who have all been a huge part of making Gaia such a special magical place.’
The resort was loved by celebrities and recently picked up an impressive four awards at the World Luxury Hotel Awards.
Selling: Back in April, Olivia announced that she was selling her famed Gaia retreat in Byron Bay just months after it swept the World Luxury Hotel Awards
Passing the torch: The entertainer revealed in a statement at the time that she was ready to ‘pass the baton’ to new owners
It came out on top for the Global Overall Chairman’s Award, Global Win – Health & Wellness Cuisine, Continent Win – Luxury Boutique Hotel and Continent Win – Luxury Healing Spa.
The awards are an impressive feat given that the World Luxury Hotel Awards are considered the Oscars of the Hospitality Industry.
The retreat is a favourite for many stars including Lisa Wilkinson, Jodhi Meares and Delta Goodrem.
Farewell: ‘We will miss our wonderful guests and amazing staff who have all been a huge part of making Gaia such a special magical place,’ Olivia said