In an industry notorious for high staff turnover, Couran Cove Island Resort, which has just celebrated its 10th anniversary, debunks the trends having retained 80 percent of its workforce for more than five years.

With many industry insiders suggesting up to 65 percent staff turnover is the norm in the hospitality sector Couran Cove�s management can also boast around 15 percent of the staff have worked at Couran Cove since it first opened in 1998.

The tourism and hospitality industry is the second largest industry in Australia, generating up to 1.2 million direct and indirect jobs in all sectors. Between 2003 and 2010, Tourism Training Australia estimated the projected increase in tourism expenditure would generate 325,000 additional jobs for Australia.

For more than 10 years, Couran Cove has been committed to the preservation of its surrounding fragile eco-system as well as the development of a resort founded on principles of sustainable tourism. It has also been dedicated to providing a working environment and culture that its staff appreciate and love working for.

Recreational Manager Kirk Links said working at Couran Cove Island Resort has been one of the best jobs he has ever had.

�In my mind there�s no better place to work than on an island resort. I love being outdoors �everyday I breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the special environment in this peaceful, unique setting,� Kirk said.

�I really enjoy meeting the diverse range of guests that stay with us throughout the year. It�s a wonderful feeling knowing guests have had many wonderful experiences on the island, and have loved it as much as I do.�

The longevity and commitment of resort staff is reflected in the numerous Environmental, Architectural, Tourism and Catering awards - both nationally and internationally - the organisation has won over the years2.

The most recent to be added to their burgeoning trophy case is the State Award for �Best Corporate Caterer�, which confirms the resort as a leader in fine dining and conferencing in Queensland.

Couran Cove General Manager Scott Hayden is proud of the reputation the resort has built as a leader, not only in ecotourism, but also in fine dining. He said the resort was made up of many unique elements which make it a memorable stay for any couple or family visiting.

�Many guests come to the resort to get away from their home and work life stresses. They leave the resort with a deeper understanding of the world around them � it really is ecotourism at its best,� Scott said.

Couran Cove Island Resort has embraced world-class environmental preservation practices and earned its reputation as Queensland�s premier eco-sensitive and environmentally aware resort in the process.

The natural and relaxed setting provided by extensive rainforest and more than 22 kilometers of pristine surf beach means Couran Cove is a resort for the new century, combining a laid-back, unspoiled charm with a unique Australian character.

For Media Information: Rebecca Madden rebeccam@couran.com +61 (0)7 5509 3037