Her Story

Whether it is the idyllic vineyards of the Hunter Valley or the serene Sunshine Coast, hotelier Jude Turner has been determined to showcase the best of Australian natural beauty through Spicers Retreats. The beautifully-created getaways have evolved out of her country upbringing, cherished memories of her personal travel as well as the business expertise she acquired while working for world-renowned companies Topdeck and Flight Centre.

Jude’s role has always gone beyond the bricks-and-mortar design of her retreats. Rather, she focuses on the most important aspect of her business –  the people who visit them. She is extensively involved in making sure the customer experience at every Spicers resort is a rejuvenating one. This philosophy reinforces the warm, welcoming and familial atmosphere that is distinctive of Spicers Retreats.

Jude’s entrepreneurial spirit has been made tangible in the various businesses she has grown and run. Today, her business has successfully expanded to nine luxury accommodation retreats. Apart from this, she has also ventured into a number of other enterprises, including award-winning restaurants, spas, cattle-breeding operations, as well as an outdoor adventure park, a koala habitat and 5000 hectares of nature refuges.

Jude attributes her success to being a good listener and taking customer feedback to heart. She has also incorporated her own ideas with those of her team to create an air of ‘relaxed luxury.’ But above all, Kym believes that her being a businesswomen has taught her that it all takes “times and patience” to happen.

Since its inception, Spicers Retreats have flourished and transformed into Jude’s proud legacy, reflecting her style and passion for portraying the greatest of Australian experiences. For Jude, this has been an intensely personal journey that found its roots humbly and progressed into a business footprint through the values of vision, leadership, determination, teamwork and perseverance.

Strategies for Success

• The right people in the right positions
• A passion for what you do
• Keep the end goal in sight at all times
• Be fair and retain integrity in all your dealings
• Economical and sensible spending