Here, the vision of paradise took root. Sanctuary Cove emerged as Australia’s first gated community. It redefined luxury living.
Sanctuary Cove is more than just a place. It’s a lifestyle. Picture a community seamlessly blending residential elegance with resort-style amenities. We are talking world-class golf courses to a vibrant marine village.
In 1981, Mike and Jenny Gore envisioned a world-class resort. They sought property to expand their boat-building business. They found an old dairy farm on Hope Island. Partnering with the Lo family from Hong Kong, they formed Discovery Bay Developments. This company would bring Sanctuary Cove to life.
But creating Sanctuary Cove wasn’t easy. It required a special act of parliament. Existing Queensland laws didn’t allow private roads and harbors. Paul Toose, a retired New South Wales Supreme Court Justice, stepped in. He drafted the Sanctuary Cove Act. This landmark legislation paved the way for the resort’s development. The Sanctuary Cove Act of 1985 made a significant impact on planning legislation within Queensland.
Sanctuary Cove officially opened in 1988. The grand opening featured a performance by Frank Sinatra. Despite vowing never to return to Australia, Sinatra was lured back for a cool million dollars. The event was hosted by Clive James. He described Sanctuary Cove as a purpose-built hideaway. Whitney Houston also performed at the opening.
Sanctuary Cove encountered financial hurdles along the way. Ownership changed hands several times. From the Ariadne Group to a Japanese company named EIE. After EIE encountered financial problems in the early 1990s and DBD remained in voluntary receivership for 10 years, until Mulpha Australia Limited purchased DBD’s assets in Sanctuary Cove. Today, Mulpha Australia owns and operates Sanctuary Cove.
Margaret Toose, one of the original residents, remembers the early days. She recalls boating trips to Tangalooma and Jumpinpin. She fondly remembers the community spirit. New residents were welcomed with open arms.
Sanctuary Cove boasts two 18-hole championship golf courses. The Palms is open to the public. The Pines is exclusive to members and resort guests. The Sanctuary Cove Marina offers 330 berths. It can accommodate superyachts up to 118 feet.
The Marine Village is the heart of Sanctuary Cove. Here you can enjoy coffee, dinner, or a stroll through the shops. The InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort provides luxurious accommodations.
Sanctuary Cove has a multi-tiered system of governance. Property owners are represented in various bodies corporate. These ensure the community maintains its high standards.
Since 1988, Sanctuary Cove has hosted the International Boat Show. It’s a major event on the Gold Coast. The Sanctuary Cove Classic is also held at the Sanctuary Cove Golf and Country Club.
Sanctuary Cove was a daring concept. It attracted people from all over the world. It offered a new way of life. A life where security, recreation, and community come together. The brave and daring concept of Sanctuary Cove has attracted a wide variety of people from many parts of Australia and overseas. They share with the original developer the dream of the ultimate place to live.