On International Day of Happiness, Oaks Happiest Person jumps for joy!

The winner of a national search for Australia’s Happiest Person is a star-jumping retiree and travel fan from Melbourne

AccomNews Monday, March 20, 2023

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Oaks Hotels, Resorts & Suites announced the winner of its national search for The Happiest Person to coincide with International Day of Happiness and the winner is…

Paula Simpson, a star-jumping retiree and travel fan from Melbourne.

Resident Happiness Expert for Oaks Hotels and founder of The Happiness Institute, Dr Tim Sharp (aka Dr Happy), had a smile on his face as he sorted through hundreds of responses from happy people sharing their images and stories in a bid for the title of Australia’s first-ever ‘Happiest Person’ – with the winner receiving a holiday for every season at Oaks properties of their choice nationwide.

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“Among a pool of positive people, Paula’s smiling star jump entry really stood out because of the simple way she finds joy in everyday experiences, her sense of playfulness, her unique way of connecting with people, and her genuine smile,” said Dr Happy.

“Paula’s attitude to life exemplifies some of the key elements to happiness – she has a positive connection with others, makes time for fun, enjoys trying new experiences and exploring different places, and finds joy in simple things – all of which reflect the findings of positive psychology research, which tell us that connection and experiences consistently trump material goods such as luxury cars and designer clothes when it comes to finding personal happiness and fulfilment.

“In fact, psychological research suggests almost a third of our personal happiness comes from our relationships and sense of connectedness, while the simple act of smiling decreases blood pressure, boosts mood-enhancing hormones and lowers levels of the stress-enhancing hormone cortisol.” he added.

Meet Paula Simpson

Melbourne resident Paula started doing star jumps 10 years ago to create a fun timeline of her travels and adventures, and she hasn’t looked back. “I’ve always loved to travel and visit new places, whether with my partner of 36 years, my three kids and seven grandkids or my friends – it’s the ultimate way to have a laugh and make great memories together,” said Paula.

“Star jumps just make me happy, and I’ve received plenty of positive feedback on my escapades and the range of locations I visit. I’m so excited to win this competition, 2023 is going to be a great year, and I cannot wait to plan my year of getaways with Oaks Hotels. I think I’ll kick things off with a coastal stay in Kingscliff, then a city break in Sydney. After that…who knows!”

When she’s not on the move, Paula loves surfing, playing basketball, riding her yellow Vespa, hanging out with family and friends, and playing with her grandkids.

Commenting on Paula’s win, Oaks Hotels’ Group Director Brand and Marketing, Melissa Rodrigues, said: “This competition was all about amplifying our new Happy Folks Choose Oaks brand platform and looking for the kind of person we believe aligns with our values – someone who understands that simple things such as old-school family fun, exploring new places or taking a spontaneous weekend escape help make us happy”.

“We can’t wait to welcome Paula and her partner to enjoy a holiday for every season at four Oaks properties of her choice over the next year. As a keen traveller, we’re confident she’ll enjoy star jumping in some new locations – and we look forward to seeing her put a smile on the faces of other guests with her own unique brand of happiness.”