Glen Eden Beach Resort: Leadership, community and award-winning hospitality
Hamish and Jess Watts have poured heart, skill and vision into their resort, and their hard work is paying off.
In 2023, Hamish and Jess Watts became the new managers of Glen Eden Beach Resort in Peregian Beach, bringing with them a wealth of experience, a collaborative leadership style and a shared vision for genuine, guest-focused hospitality.
For Hamish, the move marked the next chapter in a career that had already taken him around the world. He spent more than two decades with Hilton Hotels, starting as the youngest executive chef in the brand’s history at just 27 and progressing to general manager roles in the UK, Caribbean, China, Japan and Malaysia. Jess, after years as a dedicated stay-at-home mum, saw the role as an opportunity to return to the workforce and create something meaningful alongside her husband.
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It was a steep learning curve. In their first year, they faced immediate challenges, including updating systems, refining standards and navigating relationships with owners. At the same time, they were juggling the realities of resort life, from late-night plumbing callouts to launching new marketing campaigns, often moving between guest services, maintenance coordination, cleaning oversight and social media management in a single day.
“It is fast-paced, and you have to adapt,” Hamish says. “But it’s also incredibly rewarding when you see happy guests walk away already planning their next visit.”
Recognition that matters
In just over a year, their efforts have been recognised with some of the industry’s highest honours. Glen Eden was named the 2024 ARAMA Resort Management Team of the Year, won the Small Business Accommodation category at the Sunshine Coast Business Awards and was a finalist for Managers of the Year at the 2024 Tourism Awards.
“Professionally, these awards are validation of the hard work and quality of experience we provide,” says Hamish. “Personally, it is humbling. We have poured our hearts into Glen Eden, and to be recognised as a couple and as business partners is incredibly rewarding.”
Hamish and Jess were honoured at the recent ARAMA TOP Awards. Read AccomNew’s full story HERE
A rare Sunshine Coast gem
With absolute beachfront access and set in lush tropical gardens, Glen Eden Beach Resort offers 30 spacious townhouses, most available for holiday rental. A small number of permanent residents and owner-occupiers add to the community feel.
Guests enjoy a heated lagoon pool, tropical landscaping and direct access to a quiet stretch of Peregian Beach. Many call it their “home away from home,” returning for the peaceful location, well-equipped accommodation and warm welcome from the management team.
“We know our return guests by name, and we go above and beyond to make every stay special,” Hamish says.
His own connection runs deep. “As a child, my family visited Glen Eden every September. I remember swimming in the ocean and the pool, getting Golden Gaytimes from reception and feeling total freedom. Now I get to create those memories for other families.”
Asked what he is most proud of, Hamish says, “Creating a warm, welcoming environment that keeps guests returning, and being an active part of the Peregian Beach community.”
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Building on strengths
From the outset, Hamish and Jess committed to upgrading the property and refining operations. They transformed the resort’s original driveway into a safer, more attractive entrance, revitalised the gardens and developed a clear plan for future upgrades, including a refurbished reception and refreshed games room in August 2025.
They have also invested in marketing, revamping the website with Social Tap, updating digital content with Cloudwalker Creative and partnering with Smile Marketing to grow their social presence. Attending the Australian Tourism Exchange in Brisbane opened doors to new international trade partners, putting Glen Eden on the map for overseas visitors.
A small but dedicated team keeps the resort running seamlessly. Hamish and Jess lead the operations, supported by assistant manager Karren and handyman Rod. “Outsourcing cleaning and working with trusted local tradespeople who respond promptly has been key to maintaining efficient, hassle-free operations,” Hamish explains.
People, partnerships and community
Relationships are central to Glen Eden’s success. “We’ve always believed in investing in people, processes and property,” Hamish says.
He recalls meeting fellow operator Jason Fox at a management rights event in early 2023. “That meeting sparked a friendship that has continued to grow. We still catch up regularly to talk shop and share ideas.”
Luke Cameron, owner of Caprice Coolum and The Beach Retreat Coolum, has also been a valued sounding board. “We patrol together at Coolum Surf Club and often use quieter moments on patrol to chat about business and support each other.”
They value their partnerships with Visit Sunshine Coast and Tourism Noosa. The support of ARAMA, particularly Trevor’s accessibility and insight, has been another cornerstone of their success. “ARAMA’s training, advocacy and community have been essential,” Hamish says.
Hamish also praises their professional advisers. “Tony Rossiter from Holmans has been a trusted advisor from day one. His expertise has helped us navigate the financial side of the business with confidence.”
Tony returns the sentiment. “Hamish and Jess are valued clients of Holmans and have been a pleasure to work with since they entered the management rights industry. We wish them continued success into the future.”
Hamish also credits Trent Pevy from Pevy Lawyers for guiding them through the purchase process. “Trent made everything clear and stress-free. His knowledge of management rights meant we felt informed and supported every step of the way.”
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Loving local
Hamish and Jess are active members of the Peregian Beach Business Association, ensuring every guest receives a Village Vibes pocketbook filled with local cafés, boutiques and activities. Partnerships with Epic Ocean Adventures, Noosa Thriller and Australia Zoo help guests experience the best of the region.
“We love being part of the Noosa LGA, a region rich in natural beauty—from the three UNESCO-recognised biospheres to the pristine Noosa Everglades—all providing a breathtaking backdrop for our guests to enjoy this truly special corner of the world,” says Hamish.
Hospitality with responsibility
Sustainability is part of their vision. Glen Eden is a Plastic Free Noosa Champion, uses solar power for community areas, harvests rainwater for pools, offers EV charging for up to 12 vehicles, composts on site and uses refillable amenities in all townhouses. They are working towards Eco-Certification and have digitised their guest compendium to reduce waste.
Hamish says they also want guests to feel part of the effort. “We are expanding our digital compendium to include more about the native reserve and ways visitors can help minimise their environmental impact while enjoying their stay.”
The Glen Eden way
For Hamish, the perfect day at the resort starts with the sound of the ocean and a surf with his sons, followed by a walk along the beach to Peregian Village with Jess for coffee and a browse through the boutiques. “Back at the resort, I’d relax by the pool, then fire up the BBQ for steaks and cocktails with the family,” he adds.
Away from the resort, Hamish’s guilty pleasure is cooking, a passion rooted in his chef’s background. “I’m always looking for unique and luxurious ingredients to experiment with.” He also enjoys tinkering with his vintage Volkswagens, riding his Harley and dirt biking with his boys.
Why they stand out
When asked about the secret to their rapid success, Hamish believes it comes down to doing the basics exceptionally well. “Personalised guest experiences, attention to detail and a strong, motivated team. We focus on innovation, community partnerships and sustainable practices that today’s travellers value. That is what sets us apart.”
Jess adds, “It is about always listening, being present and making sure guests feel like they matter. That feeling is what brings them back.”
Looking ahead
With upgrades on the horizon and a clear commitment to service, Glen Eden Beach Resort is well positioned for continued growth.
“For us, success is owners choosing us over outside agents, guests returning year after year and a team that loves what they do,” Hamish says.
“For anyone starting out, I would say build genuine relationships, stay adaptable and never lose your passion for hospitality.”
Glen Eden Beach Resort is not only a beautiful place to stay but also a testament to what can happen when industry expertise, community connection and genuine hospitality come together under the right leadership.
Hamish and Jess have poured heart, skill and vision into this resort. With a blend of personal connection, community spirit and sustainable thinking they are earning awards, and winning over guests who return year after year.
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This article first appeared in the September edition of Resort News. Click below to explore.
