December 2001: Bedarra Island has been singled out in the December 2001 edition of the prestigious "Andrew Harpers Hideaway Report" as a Grand Award winner in their �Hideaways of the Year� category.

�We are really delighted to receive this Award and to have Bedarra included in this elite group described as being �the world�s most captivating hideaway hotels and resorts,� Managing Director, P&O Australian Resorts, Mark Campbell, said. The Award applies strict judging criteria to each property that includes their all-round comfort, non-commercial character, passionate commitment to personal service. Site inspections are carried out incognito with the judges checking general d�cor, design, cleanliness and upkeep; staff esprit de corps, attentiveness, friendliness, thoroughness and efficiency; food ingredients, inspiration and presentation as well as the overall appearance and maintenance of the property. The �Q factor � an intangible impression that separates the good from the truly enchanting,� is also taken into consideration.

�To have not only met these criteria but to have been singled out as a Grand Award Winner this year is a real testament to the hard work that so many people have put in at Bedarra Island over the last two years,� Mark said. �I�d like to thank them and to congratulate all the staff at the resort as they are the one who ensure that the very special Bedarra experience is provided to our guests every day.�

Bedarra Island is a elegantly understated, stylish resort that offers 30 people, accommodated in 15 secluded villas, a very civilised �escape� or hideaway. It has the distinction of being one of only a handful of small island resorts anywhere in the world where everything, including its legendary 24-hour Open Bar, is included in the holiday package.

�We invested $2.2 million to refurbish Bedarra Island this year, so the Andrew Harpers Hideaway of the Year Award is a fitting tribute as it underscores our commitment to an ongoing program of investment in infrastructure,� Mark said. �Our philosophy is to provide unique opportunities for guests to explore and experience natural wonders at the same time as they enjoy excellent levels of accommodation, food and service.�

Bedarra Island lies off the coast of North Queensland midway between Townsville and Cairns.

The prestigious Andrew Harpers Hideaway Report, an advertising-free publication, is billed as the �Connoisseur�s Guide to Peaceful and Unspoiled Places�. The Award is shared with only two other properties in the Australian and South Pacific region: Tower Lodge in the Hunter Valley, NSW and Kauri Cliffs in New Zealand.

Media Contact: (not for publication) Julia Gauci P&O Australian Resorts (02) 9364 8350 julia.gauci@poresorts.com

As well as Bedarra Island, P&O Australian Resorts include: Brampton Island; Cradle Mountain Lodge; Dunk Island; Heron Island; Lizard Island and Silky Oaks Lodge & Healing Waters Spa. Each property within the Australia�s Natural Treasures portfolio is a unique window to one of Australia�s World Heritage- Listed areas.