MEDIA RELEASE                                       Thursday 19 March 2009

DRIFT SPA A FIRST FOR MISSION BEACH

While cassowaries tuck-in to the tropic’s exotic fruit known as quandongs in the Mission Beach rainforest, at the beach nearby, the therapists at Drift Spa are using it on clients as the key ingredient in a conditioning hair treatment.

Adding a new and holistic dimension to guest services and activities available in Mission Beach, Drift Spa opened last month at Castaways Resort and Spa.  In another first, it is the only beachfront spa facility in Tropical North Queensland.

The Dreaming, Drift’s signature three-and-a-half-hour treatment, incorporates a salt exfoliation, mud wrap, full massage (including hands, feet and face) and exotic hair mask made from the oil of the quandong kernel.

The luxurious treatment embodies the philosophy of Drift Spa to soothe the body, mind and soul of clients with Australia’s Aboriginal-inspired Li’Tya products and treatments.

Right on the edge of the white sands of spectacular Mission Beach, Drift Spa at Castaways Resort and Spa is the ultimate location for a massage or a body wrap as its absolute beachfront position gives an uninterrupted view of Dunk Island and the Coral Sea.

Serene state-of-the-art treatment rooms offer air-conditioned comfort, or drift off on the balcony in either the spa or seated massage chairs. Drift’s cutting edge design means the four different treatment areas can cater to couples, singles or be booked exclusively by a group of six to 16.

Edge Architecture’s Gordon Beath, who is renowned for the Gold Coast Mirage, designed the unique relaxation areas and balcony treatment space while Coco Republic Interiors combined earthy hues with inspiration from the ocean for the décor.

Spa manager Lea-Ann Kennedy said Drift was not just a typical day spa, but an incredible experience given to clients in a stunning beachfront setting.

 “The décor captures the essence of Li’tya’s Of the Earth and Of the Sea ranges which is important as each treatment at Drift is a sensory journey using colour, smell and sound to ground clients and leave them in a blissful state rarely achieved in their busy lives,” she said.

“Our six therapists have been fully trained in the use of Li’Tya which incorporates organic Australian native plant botanicals with ancient Aboriginal healing methods for a unique spa treatment.

“I fell in love with Li’Tya’s Australian made and owned products while I was working in spas on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula. I like the company’s philosophy of treading lightly on the earth as well as their commitment to ‘give back’ to the indigenous people.   

 “I discovered Mission Beach 20 years ago when I started coming here annually on holidays.

“Now I have been able to set up a state-of-the-art spa in the most beautiful and peaceful location I’ve seen. Helping clients reconnect with themselves and rejuvenate after a treatment completes the dream for me.”

‘Drift’ offers a comprehensive range of beauty services including professional photographic makeup using Atelier products from France.

According to Lea-Ann, ‘Drift’ is aboard the latest ‘spa party’ trend known as ‘Sparty’.  “This is a quirky and fun idea where our clients and their friends can enjoy exclusive use of the spa  - a healthy alternative for hen’s parties and special occasions.

When it comes to organizing a ‘sparty’, Drift can cater for groups of six to 16 and to celebrate its recent opening, has a special package available.  Until 31 May, 2009, groups of six booking a ‘sparty’ will receive a foot soak, one hour massage, cheese platter, glass of sparkling wine and use of the verandah spa for the party’s duration for just $600.

Other opening specials available this month include:

•  free Tuscan Tan this month with the purchase of Tuscan Tan Exfoliating Sugar Scrub, PH Balanced Skin Wash and the Tinted Tan Extender for $75.

Drift Spa is another progressive investment by the Neville-Smith family who own Castaways Resort and Spa and are committed to adding value to Mission Beach as a destination.

 “We are now rolling out our fresh Castaways branding to symbolise the resort’s recent refurbishment and expansion with the addition of Drift Spa and Palms wedding/conference facility – both built by local, Mission Beach builder Mark Watson of Watson Construction,” Mr James Neville-Smith said.

ENDS

For more information

Lea-Ann Kennedy Manager Drift Spa Telephone: (07) 4088 6807

Email:  relax@driftspa.com.au Web: www.driftspa.com.au

Publicity

Pip Miller PR Telephone: 0419 681543 Email: pip@pipmillerpr.com.au