Baillie Lodges has marked the rebirth of Southern Ocean Lodge with the release of a documentary following the journey of its reconstruction. Titled “Sunshine Rising,” the film showcases the rebuild of the luxury accommodation on Kangaroo Island, which was decimated by bushfires in 2020. The documentary is produced by South Australian filmmakers 57 Films and encapsulates the challenges and milestones encountered over the four-year redevelopment project. It features key moments, including the planning stages and the construction complexities faced while working on a remote island.
The documentary screens a poignant scene where founders James and Hayley Baillie salvage remnants from the wreckage, alongside critical planning meetings with the structure’s original architect, Max Pritchard. “Sunshine Rising” derives its name from “Sunshine,” a metal kangaroo sculpture that survived the fires and symbolises hope and continuity in the lodge’s new era.
The extensive rebuild, costing $55 million, saw the Southern Ocean Lodge reopen in December 2023. Positioned along South Australia’s rugged south coast, the lodge is renowned for a design philosophy that harmonises with its spectacular setting. The revamped facility aims to usher in a new standard in sustainable luxury travel.
James Baillie shared his views on the occasion, noting the deliberate enhancements made to combine luxury with sustainability. “We feel very fortunate to be able to present the new-look Southern Ocean Lodge to the world,” he said.
Hayley Baillie reflected on the emotional and operational journey of rebuilding the lodge. She highlighted the engagement with local suppliers and the discovery of new contributors from regional Southern Australia. “We have a chance now to show the world the incredible depth and diversity of the regional Southern Australia and Kangaroo Island offering as it stands today and into the future,” Mrs Baillie commented.
Southern Ocean Lodge has carefully maintained its original spatial arrangement, with significant enhancements to amplify guest experience and eco-friendly operations. It features twenty-three suites, each redesigned to maximise views of the Southern Ocean. Technologies such as rainwater harvesting, solar power, and advanced sprinkler systems are instrumental in advancing the lodge’s sustainability objectives.
The lodge now includes an ultra-premium Ocean Pavilion, catering to family groups or friends, alongside enhanced amenities such as an expanded Southern Spa and a new wet-edge pool on the Great Room terrace.
Southern Ocean Lodge has also introduced a podcast, “Baillie Lodges Luxury Redefined,” which provides insights into the renovation through interviews with the founders, lodge managers, and architect. It serves as an auditory guide for guests, enriching their understanding and connection to the place.
Prices at Southern Ocean Lodge start at AU$3,400 per couple per night, including dining, an open bar, signature experiences, and airport transfers, mirroring the inclusions of its predecessor.
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To watch the documentary, head to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=piaJs0MdnB8 or watch below.
Southern Ocean Lodge is situated at Hanson Bay Rd, Kingscote SA 5223.
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