Family focus and fresh starts: Tim and Andie’s shift from race track to resort life at Talisman Apartments
The family only took over the management rights in October 2025, and while the change has been a whirlwind, their enthusiasm is unmistakable
For years, the roar of the racetrack defined the rhythm of Tim and Andie Butt and their family’s lives. From chilly early mornings with racehorses in the Christchurch winter to the high-stakes energy of race days, their world revolved around precision, teamwork and relentless dedication.
But after decades in the horse racing industry, Tim and Andie, together with two of their children, daughter Kate and son Riley, began to dream of a new kind of challenge—one that would allow the family to work together, stay hands-on and build something they could nurture and grow.
Read the latest print edition of AccomNews HERE
That dream led to the Gold Coast and, ultimately, to Talisman Apartments in Broadbeach, where the ocean views stretch on forever and the sea breeze feels a world away from the racetrack’s pace.
The family only took over the management rights in October 2025, and while the change has been a whirlwind, their enthusiasm is unmistakable. “It’s been an incredible start,” says Andie. “There’s a lot to learn, but we already feel like part of something special. Talisman has such beautiful energy, and we’re proud to be part of its next chapter.”
From horsepower to hospitality
The Butts’ story begins in Christchurch, New Zealand, where hard work and horses were part of daily life. Both Tim and Andie come from backgrounds deeply rooted in the racing world. Tim managed stables, trained horses and built a reputation for excellence grounded in discipline and care—all while he and Andie raised their four children.
“Horse racing teaches you structure, commitment and the importance of relationships,” Tim reflects. “It’s a world that demands consistency, but it also rewards heart and intuition. Those lessons stay with you.”
Their daughter Kate grew up surrounded by that world. While the family focused on training and operations, she gravitated toward people and communication, skills that now shine in her guest services and marketing role at Talisman.
“We’ve always worked together in some way,” Kate says. “It made sense to keep doing that in a space where we could build something lasting.”
Related AccomNews article: Fresh eyes in the tropics: Michelle & Leon’s bold move
Their son Riley remains deeply involved in horse racing, continuing the family’s legacy in the industry, but he is now also a silent partner in the management rights venture—investing not only in the business but in his family’s shared future. It’s a venture that perfectly balances lifestyle, purpose and opportunity.
When the family began looking for their next chapter, they knew they wanted a business that offered both flexibility and longevity. Management rights ticked every box. And as luck (or perhaps fate) would have it, the opportunity at Talisman appeared at just the right time.
A full-circle opportunity
Broadbeach was already woven into their family’s story. “We used to escape the freezing winters and come here for holidays,” Andie recalls. “We’d always stay in Broadbeach, race at the old Parklands track, and enjoy everything the area offered. So, when Talisman came up, it felt like everything had come together.”
The sale itself, however, was far from straightforward. That’s where Hotel Resort Sales, led by Craig and Rebecca Johnson, came in.
Craig recalls one of the most distinctive sales he’s handled in recent years.
“The management rights were originally marketed as an equity-based active manager share, with silent investors not planning to sell,” he explains. “After working extensively with the Butt family over several months, I introduced them to Talisman and they immediately fell in love with the property. Recognising the opportunity, I approached all partners to explore a complete sale.
“What followed was a careful and collaborative negotiation that resulted in a whole-building transaction—a win-win outcome delivering an exceptional result for both buyers and sellers.”
The Butts describe the transaction as detailed but ultimately rewarding. Today, Tim, Andie, Kate and Riley share equal ownership of the business—a true family enterprise built on trust, shared values and complementary skills. They credit the expertise and teamwork of everyone involved in bringing the sale together.
“We surrounded ourselves with good people,” Andie says. “That made all the difference.”
From their very first meeting, they knew they were in capable hands with Craig and Rebecca. “They were fantastic from day one,” says Andie. “They took the time to understand our goals as a family and never made us feel like just another transaction.
“Their approach was personal, transparent and incredibly proactive. No question was too small, no challenge too hard. They were always one step ahead, guiding us through the journey and keeping every party aligned. It was refreshing to work with professionals who genuinely cared about achieving the best outcome for everyone.”
The family also speak highly of their wider support team, describing each as instrumental in navigating the complexities of an equity-based management rights purchase.
“Having the Mike Phipps Finance team behind us was a huge advantage,” says Tim.
“Their experience and understanding of management rights finance gave us real confidence at every stage. They were efficient, reassuring and made what could have been a stressful process feel seamless.”
Paul Grant Senior Finance Broker at Mike Phipps Finance shares their enthusiasm.
“It was a pleasure to work on this transaction for the loveliest of clients,” he says. “We were able to match the buyers with a highly supportive lender offering very competitive finance terms.”
Fellow Senior Finance Broker Josh Haylen agrees. “This transaction was one of the smoothest I’ve worked on in quite some time, and I think that speaks volumes about the buyer’s character and the calibre of the professional team involved,” he says.
Equally, the accounting and legal teams provided expert guidance and steady support. “Sam Hodgetts from McAdam Siemon was brilliant—thorough, calm and always on hand to explain the finer details. He ensured that everything stacked up from a business and financial perspective,” says Tim.
“And the Flood Legal team were just as exceptional. Their attention to detail, communication and professionalism meant we never felt out of our depth.”
Reflecting on the journey, the family agree that the collective expertise and integrity of everyone involved turned what began as a complex, multi-party negotiation into an experience defined by trust and collaboration. “Every professional we worked with brought something valuable to the table,” says Andie.
“We never felt alone. Everyone worked together with such care and precision that, by settlement, we felt completely confident we were making the right move.”
“It was more than just a sale,” adds Tim. “It was a partnership from start to finish.”
Despite the complexity of the transaction, the handover itself went remarkably smoothly. “Every transition comes with a learning curve,” says Andie, “but we were fortunate that the outgoing managers had implemented excellent systems, which made the process much easier. Everyone was motivated to finalise the deal quickly. We aimed for a 90-day turnaround, and we achieved it.”
Life at Talisman
Talisman Apartments sits right on the beachfront, a commanding white tower gazing out over the Pacific Ocean. Each apartment enjoys uninterrupted ocean views, and the property’s long-standing reputation for warmth and community deeply appealed.
“It’s not just a resort. It’s a home,” says Kate. “We want guests to feel that from the moment they arrive.”
The family live onsite, and each member has naturally fallen into their role within the business. Tim looks after the grounds and maintenance, keeping the property immaculate and the gardens thriving. Andie manages the day-to-day operations, making sure everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. Kate focuses on communication, guest relations and marketing. Based on the Sunshine Coast, Riley remains involved as a silent partner, lending ideas and insights from afar.
“Each of us has our strengths,” Andie says. “That balance allows the business to run seamlessly. We trust one another completely, which makes it work.”
The family dynamic is one of collaboration and mutual respect. “We play to our strengths,” Kate explains. “Dad is calm and strategic, Mum is structured and organised, I bring energy and creativity, and Riley offers a valuable outside perspective.”
Andie adds that their other children, daughter Leah and her husband Chris, along with their older son Rhys, are all pursuing their own passions overseas. “We’re extremely proud of all of their achievements,” she says.
Vision for the future
The Butts’ ambitions for Talisman are clear. They aim to elevate both the guest experience and the property’s profile while maintaining its welcoming, community feel.
“Our vision is to build on what already makes Talisman unique,” says Kate. “We want to modernise the infrastructure, refresh the gardens and enhance the facilities so that the building continues to be one of Broadbeach’s most loved properties.
“It’s about creating memorable stays. Every interaction matters—whether it’s a warm greeting, a thoughtful recommendation or ensuring every room is spotless. We want Talisman to stand out not just for its views, but for the heart behind it.”
She adds: “With new branding already rolling out, the vision is starting to come to life.”
Read more profiles on AccomNews HERE
From tracks to tides
Moving from the intensity of horse racing to resort management life may seem like a leap, but for the Butt family, the values are surprisingly similar. “Both worlds rely on consistency, timing and care,” Tim explains. “In racing, you’re responsible for every detail of your stable and horses. Here, it’s every guest and every owner. The stakes are different, but the pride is the same.”
Their days still begin early, but instead of dawn trackwork, mornings now start with ocean sunrises and the sound of waves. “It’s still busy, but it’s a different kind of busy,” Andie says with a smile. “And there’s definitely more sunshine.”
When they do get time off, they enjoy simple pleasures—family dinners, a punt on the races and exploring the local dining scene. Their children visit from overseas whenever possible, keeping the family connection strong.
Building community, one stay at a time
For the new managers of Talisman Apartments, success isn’t just measured in occupancy rates or financial results. It’s about creating an environment where a family can work and invest together, where guests feel welcomed, where owners feel proud, and the local community recognises Talisman as a trusted and thriving part of Broadbeach.
“We want people to leave with memories,” says Andie. “When guests check out smiling and tell us they can’t wait to come back, that’s what makes it worthwhile.”
The same commitment and teamwork that fuelled their racing success now propel the family’s next chapter. At Talisman Apartments, Tim, Andie, Kate and Riley are already finding their stride.
Read the November edition of Resort News HERE
