Staff Stories
Hamilton Island is much more than a great place to work – it’s an amazing career opportunity. See how our staff are continuing to grow in an environment that recognises ability and ambition.
Mick - Executive Chef
When Mick came to Hamilton Island, he didn’t realise how fast his career would progress. He started as a Line Chef, and was keen to learn. But his enthusiasm, drive and talent have taken him on an incredible journey. He’s been Head Chef at four different restaurants on the island, and is currently running two kitchens – Sails Restaurant and the Beach Club. He also continues to further himself at the Robert Oatley College, doing a series of management courses.
Ryan - qualia Maintenance
Ryan jumped at the opportunity to be a carpenter on Hamilton Island. But, at the time, he didn’t realise the opportunities that would lead to. His clear talent, and desire to succeed led to a number of promotions. After ten years on the island, he now heads up maintenance at qualia – voted one of the best resorts in the world.
Shane - Food and Beverage Manager
Shane started as a Food & Beverage Attendant. His drive and ability soon saw him promoted on a number of occasions in a short space of time. With each promotion, he found himself working at a new restaurant, which gave him great experience across different establishments on the island. He’s recently been promoted to Food & Beverage Manager, looking after five of those restaurants.
Lucy - Leading Hand Gardener
Lucy always wanted to work with plants. Little did she know it was a role that not only let her do what she loves, it also rewarded her. After three years on the island, she now finds herself in charge of an entire team of gardeners. Her ability and dedication was obvious to her boss, who knows a thing or two about helping things grow.
Joanne - Assistant Executive Housekeeper
Joanne’s first job on Hamilton Island was as a Service Attendant, but her talents were quickly recognised and rewarded with a promotion to Team Leader, then to Supervisor and more recently, Assistant Executive Housekeeper. She’s also taken full advantage of Multi-Hire, which allows her to work in other jobs around the island and plans to do more training at the Robert Oatley College. Since arriving on the island she’s realised the incredible opportunities that are available.
Jacqui - Spa Services Manager
Jacqui came to Hamilton Island to be a Sports Club Attendant. But it was clear to all around her that she had the drive to achieve great things. A series of promotions saw her move around the island, in a number of different areas. While Manager of the Relaxation Centre, she worked with management to expand the island’s spa facilities. Now she oversees three different businesses in her role as Spa Services Manager.
Jake - Hotel Services Manager
When Jake started as a porter, management soon realised he was going to go far. Since those early days, his rise has been nothing short of meteoric. In 2011 he was given three promotions, then in 2013 he became Hotel Services Manager. Along the way, he has taken a number of courses at the Robert Oatley College and taken full advantage of Multi-Hire, which allows staff to work in other jobs around the island.
Mitch'e - Chef at Manta Ray
It didn’t take long for Mitch’e to start moving through the ranks. In his short time on Hamilton Island he’s moved from Commis Chef to Senior Chef De Partie. He was full of ambition from the first day he arrived, and that was soon recognised. He’s also spent time at the Robert Oatley College attaining a Diploma of Management, as well as spending time working in a variety of roles in different kitchens – purely for the experience. It’s helped him realise exactly where he wants to be.