Hugh & Coreena, One Kangaroo Island
One Kangaroo Island, nestled privately on absolute beachfront is testament to the passion and vision of their owners, Hugh and Coreena. Their private eco-conscious retreats, One KI and Walcowrie, offer guests a unique blend of luxury, nature and sustainability.
Hugh and Coreena's journey began, over 25 years ago, with a shared love for the island and a desire to create a space that would allow others to connect with its biodiversity and natural beauty. Their dedication to conservation and regenerative practices shines through in every aspect of both One KI and Walcowrie.
From the moment guests arrive, they are immersed in the tranquility and beauty of the surroundings. The retreats both blend seamlessly within the natural landscape, featuring sustainable architecture, with gardens and water points attracting a diverse array of wildlife.
Hugh and Coreena's passion for the environment, knowledge and commitment to sustainability extends beyond the physical environment. They actively participate in conservation initiatives, such as supporting BirdLife, broad acre vegetation and rewilding projects. They also prioritise sustainable practices in their operations, from energy and water conservation to using locally sourced products and supporting local businesses.
Guests have the opportunity to learn about the island's unique biodiversity and participate in a diverse range of activities, including birdwatching, snorkelling, monitoring Pygmy possum and other nesting boxes, together with nesting shorebirds. Both retreats have extensive libraries, binoculars and scopes, making them perfect places to absorb and learn about the island's environment. The retreats comprise four different vegetation habitat; woodland forest, bushland/shrubland, coastal heath and coastal dune, all abutting a pristine white, sheltered sandy swimming beach
The retreats, One KI and Walcowrie, are perfect for guests to truly escape and reconnect with nature. It's a testament to Hugh and Coreena's vision and their unwavering commitment to creating a sustainable and enriching experience for all. Hugh explains “Our goal at One KI and Walcowrie has been to create retreats that not only provides luxurious experiences but also inspire guests to appreciate and protect the natural world. We believe that tourism can be a force for good, and we are committed to operating our business in a sustainable and responsible manner. By showcasing the beauty and importance of the island's ecosystems, we hope to inspire others to take action to protect the planet.”