As Brisbane prepares to welcome the world to the 2032 Olympics, a rebranded and revitalized destination is poised to become the crown jewel of Queensland’s tourism industry. Formerly known as Cedar Creek Lodges and Thunderbird Park, Tamborine Mountain Glades has emerged as the premier destination in the Scenic Rim, offering a unique blend of adventure, luxury, and natural beauty set to captivate visitors from around the globe.
A Journey Spanning 25 Years
The story of Tamborine Mountain Glades begins in 1999, a year when pop culture icons dominated the airwaves, and Bob and Judi Minnikin took over Cedar Creek Lodges, a property nestled just an hour away from Brisbane and the Gold Coast. What started as a modest venture quickly became a 25-year love affair with tourism, transforming the Minnikins’ lives and leaving an indelible mark on Australia’s tourism landscape.
Bob and Judi Minnikin celebrtaing Tamborine Mountain Glades.
Fast forward to today, and Tamborine Mountain Glades is a testament to their unwavering dedication and vision. Over five million visitors have experienced the magic of this iconic destination, which has become synonymous with adventure, romance, and luxury. From hosting over 2,000 weddings to earning a mantle full of national and state awards, the Minnikins have built a tourism empire that continues to evolve and inspire.
The Rebranding: A Vision for the Future
The decision to rebrand Cedar Creek Lodges and Thunderbird Park as Tamborine Mountain Glades was not taken lightly. According to Bob and Judi, the new name better reflects the destination’s suite of experiences, future developments, and the significance of the mountainside they call home. The rebranding marks the beginning of a new chapter that promises to elevate the destination to new heights as the world gears up for the 2032 “Natural Wonders” Olympics.
Tamborine Mountain Glades is not just a name; it reflects the Minnikins’ commitment to creating a nature-based tourism experience unlike any other. The property spans 114 hectares of breathtaking landscapes, including Australia’s number one adventure playground. It also offers a diverse range of accommodation options, from trendy rooms to five-star glamping and luxury lodges. This is set against the stunning backdrop of the world-famous Tamborine National Park in the Scenic Rim.
The Road to Success: Overcoming Challenges
The journey to success was not without its challenges. Bob Minnikin recalls how, 30 years ago, he was persuaded to join a consortium that purchased Thunderbird Park. “It was quickly evident that this was a rather tired property, mortgaged to the hilt and losing money,” he says with a touch of humour. But with determination and hard work, the Minnikins overcame financial hurdles, natural disasters, and industry shifts to create a thriving tourism destination.
Judi Minnikin reflects on those difficult times, noting how they forged a deeper bond and solidified their vision for the future. “Today, we stand here sharing that vision and launching the next chapter—Tamborine Mountain Glades,” she says. “We wanted to build a place where people would return year after year, a place where they could connect with nature, create lasting memories, and start their own love stories.”
The Future: Embracing Tomorrow
With the rebranding comes a renewed focus on the future. Tamborine Mountain Glades is set to introduce new accommodation options, including the recently launched 20-room luxe suites known as The Vistas. Additionally, the Japanese-inspired SOL Elemental Spa is scheduled to open this summer, offering guests an unparalleled wellness experience on the peninsula of Lake Waterlily.
The Minnikins have also embraced sustainability as a core value. Last week, Tamborine Mountain Glades proudly received certification from EcoTourism Australia in the Nature Tourism category. “Achieving this certification is a testament to our commitment to operating at the highest level of sustainability and aligning our values with those of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC),” Judi Minnikin explains.
Looking Ahead to 2032
As Brisbane gears up for the 2032 Olympics, which promises to showcase Australia’s most beloved natural wonders, Tamborine Mountain Glades is perfectly positioned to lead the charge. Nestled midway between Brisbane and the Gold Coast, the destination offers easy access to visitors while providing a safe and unique way to experience Australia’s flora and fauna.
“Bring on tomorrow, bring on 2032!” Judi declares confidence in their ability to continue innovating and inspiring others in the tourism industry. Her advice to fellow operators is simple yet powerful: “Keep going, never give up, always prioritize the guest, and most importantly, love what you do!”
Cedar Creek.
The Essence of Tamborine Mountain Glades
Tamborine Mountain Glades offers accommodation options to suit every taste, from premium hotel rooms to luxurious glamping tents. The property also boasts an impressive array of attractions, including the Thunderegg Crystal Mine, Dig IT mini-excavator park, and the newly rebuilt Canyon Flyer zipline. For those seeking adventure, the TreeTop Challenge offers 180 tree-top activities and 18 zip lines, while the Rainforest Restaurant serves seasonal flavours in a stunning setting.
As a top conference and wedding destination, Tamborine Mountain Glades has earned national, state, and local accolades for excellence. The Minnikins’ dedication to creating a world-class tourism experience is evident in every aspect of the property, from the meticulously maintained grounds to the exceptional service provided by their team of over 130 employees.
A Bright Future in the Scenic Rim
Tourism is vital in the Scenic Rim, contributing over $250 million annually to the region’s Gross Regional Product and employing nearly 3,000 people. With almost 2 million visitors last year alone, the region is experiencing significant growth in overnight stays, thanks in part to destinations like Tamborine Mountain Glades.
The Minnikins’ commitment to the Scenic Rim extends beyond tourism. They acknowledge and pay respect to the land and the traditional families of the Yugambeh region, recognizing the importance of preserving and honouring the area’s cultural heritage.
As Tamborine Mountain Glades looks to the future, it remains a shining example of what can be achieved through passion, perseverance, and a deep love for the natural world. With the 2032 Olympics on the horizon, the Minnikins are ready to continue leading the way, inspiring others to follow in their footsteps and ensuring that Queensland’s Scenic Rim remains a must-visit destination for generations.
Written by: Anne Keam
