After a AUS$15million refurbishment, the post-modern Lizard Island - Australia�s first boutique Island resort - is One of One and has become an international icon.

Lizard Island, or Jiigurru - as it is known by its Aboriginal custodians, the Dingaal people - is rich in history, colour and spirit and following an extensive six-month refurbishment program (re opening in late July 2000) this ultimate island destination is now more spectacular than ever...

�P&O Australian Resorts purchased the Lodge at Lizard Island in 1999, having identified the Island as a contender for inclusion in the prestigious Australia�s Natural Treasures portfolio,� explained James Baillie, Managing Director of P&O Australian Resorts.

�Throughout the closure period, almost every element on Lizard Island was re-styled. The vision for the post-modern Lizard Island was one of contemporary elegance with no compromise on quality, service or guest privacy and comfort.�

�The redesign of the resort itself was to ensure accommodation and facilities remained discreet in every aspect, complementing the natural environment and achieving an unprecedented level of style and facility. Dining and other service elements were also to be redefined in a deluxe contemporary style�. According to Baillie the post-modern Lizard Island represents the direction in which the P&O Australian Resorts portfolio is being shaped for the new millennium.

�The brief was that guests would take away a unique sense of place and an unforgettable experience. That the new Lizard would project the very essence of elegant Australian beachside living�. Desmond Brooks International (DBI) Design Corporation was appointed as project architects for the post-modern Lizard, with Stuart Shakespeare and interior designer Susan Rossi, taking on the challenge of creating a resort that worked in harmony with the Island�s spectacular natural beauty.

�Their professional expertise coupled with P&O Australian Resorts own in-house talents and passion for design integrity has ensured that guests on Lizard Island will enjoy something truly special � one of one,� said Baillie.

�The post-modern Lizard is designed to have a fresh, natural look with the details echoing the Island�s strong connection with the reef in colour and texture. The tones used throughout the resort draw from nature - rock, surf and coastal bushland.�

�The reception and Lodge has been opened up and extended inviting guests to relax and take in the stunning views. The bar and dining room areas have also been re-configured to emphasis open space and natural light.�

Other significant changes to the property include the addition of a central guest facility combining a pool, day spa, gym and an entertainment lounge. �The Pavilion Spa has been created with an earthy ambience reflecting a careful balance between health, beauty and nature, � Baillie explained.

�Here guests can enjoy massage, facials and other hand and body treatments - many exclusive to Lizard Island.�

In addition to the improved guest facilities, major work was carried out replacing and upgrading the important back-of-house infrastructure including water, sewerage and power generation. These works bring the post-modern Lizard in-line with P&O Australian Resorts� ongoing commitment to environmental care.

Travel details: Lizard Island is Australia's northernmost island resort, located 240 kilometres north of Cairns, 27 kilometres off the coast of North Queensland. This exclusive 40-villa property is located on a 1000 hectare National Park with 24 pristine, sandy beaches.

The resort is accessed via regular flights from Cairns Domestic Airport - a stunning scenic flight over the Great Barrier Reef takes approximately 1 hour. Charter flights are also available

Located within one of the world�s most spectacular Marine National Parks, diving at Lizard Island is exceptional. As well as diving or snorkelling the famous Great Barrier Reef and Cod Hole, deep sea fishing, gentle bushwalks and gourmet beach picnics are a natural part of Lizard Island - as is fine dining and enjoying the ultimate in relaxation. Other resort activities include: game fishing, tennis, hiking, sailing and boating, glass bottom boat trips and day-spa treatments in the new Pavilion Spa.

Accommodation on Lizard Island is available from AUS$600 per person per night twin share, (Anchor Bay Room). Anchor Bay Suite and Sunset Point Villa, AUS$800 per person per night twin share. Villa One AUS$950 per person, per night twin share. Lizard Island does not cater for children under 10years. Rates include meals and most activities and are valid 1 April 2001 until 31 March 2002.

3 night Lizard Island packages start from AUS$2,200 per person twin share and include: Sunset Villa or Anchor Bay Suite accommodation; all meals; premium Australian Sparkling Wine and fruit on arrival. Each guest also receives a Lizard Island Pavilion Spa voucher to the value of AUS$100.

For bookings and further information on Lizard Island, contact P&O Australian Resorts on telephone 1800 73 7678(freecall Australia only) or 61 2 9277 5050 or see your local travel agent.

Additional information can be found at www.poresorts.com or via e-mail resorts.reservations@poresorts.com

Media Contact: (not for publication) Julia Gauci P&O Australian Resorts Phone: 61 2 9364 8350 Email: julia.gauci@poresorts.com

United Kingdom & Europe Susie Barry McCluskey & Associates Phone: (020) 7371 8900 Fax: (020) 7371 8116 Email: susie@mccluskey.co.uk

United States of America Timothy Fox Fox Global Communications Phone: (949) 851 3144 Fax: (949) 851 2239 Email: foxglobal@earthlink.net

P&O Australian Resorts offer premium nature-based holiday experiences in some of Australia�s most spectacular locations. Each property within the Australia�s Natural Treasures portfolio is a unique window to one of Australia�s World Heritage Listed areas. As well as Lizard Island, other P&O Australian Resorts include: Bedarra Island; Brampton Island; Cradle Mountain Lodge; Dunk Island; Heron Island & Silky Oaks Lodge.