Sanctuary Lakes Fauna Retreat

Deborah and Rod, During our 2 night stay Rod entered our accommodation (with our belongings) with two other people without our knowledge or presence. The only reason we were made aware of this entry and why we left a paper review with Deborah and Rod was because my parents were staying in the cabin opposite and happened to be sitting on their deck, witnessing the entry. Rob calling out if anyone was in the cabin, and then entering without phoning, emailing or telling us face to face is highly unprofessional and the opposite of trying to get in contact with me. At no point prior or during our stay was there any attempt made to contact me about the cabin being for sale and potentially having buyers look through during our stay. We have only found this out after reading your review on Airbnb. This event was a breach in our privacy. Had my parents not been there we would have never known you had entered our private getaway space for the weekend. We will not be staying again, despite loving the location, as we do not feel comfortable or trust that our privacy will be respected.

I stayed here for 1 night only in a one bedroom villa. The instructions as to how I could find and access my villa were comprehensive and easy to follow. My villa was almost at the end of the roadway in so it was reasonably quiet, and I drove past all the lovely lakes this accommodation is known for. The villa was spotlessly clean and nicely presented. A large TV with access to streaming services, you could either sit on one of the comfy chairs to watch or lie on the bed. A small kitchenette with a full size fridge. A nice surprise was finding the box of Roses chocolates in the fridge, and the frozen peas in the freezer...to feed the turtles. The bathroom doubled as a laundry with a washing machine and dryer, not that I needed it but good to know for a longer visit. The bed was very comfortable and I had the best night's sleep. The villas are alongside the lakes that are full with turtles and bird life. I also saw a bat colony over the other side of the lake, far enough away not to be a problem. The location is fabulous being walking distance to the Botanic Gardens, the Urungan Pier, and close to shops and restaurants by car. A lovely spot to stay and different to your usual accommodation with nature so close. I'd stay here again.

We booked our holiday last minute and we’re lucky enough to find a place to stay in the school holidays which was reasonably priced. I came with my daughter and 3 young grandchildren and we all loved it. The room was spacious, clean and comfortable and the kids just loved feeding the ducks, turtles and birds from the balcony. It was lovely and peaceful with well kept grounds, lots of wildlife and the pool was nice for an afternoon swim. I liked the fact we were safe and secure as access was through a secure gate. The beach was close by and a shopping centre a few minutes away. Would recommend for families and nature lovers.

The cabins were basic but had what you needed for a few nights stay. It was a spectacular location surrounding the lake which was full of ducks and turtles. The place could do with a bit of a renevation but at the price it was a lovely stop for a few nights.

Not knowing what to expect before our arrival, ultimately we were very, very Very happy with a decision to spend three nights at Fauna Sanctuary at Hervey Bay. Being 1/2 of a couple of 2 nature lovers, we had a great time feeding the ducks, and the turtles with the small bags of petting food that are provided for you from the reception. The general manager Deb had a lot of information to impart on us about the wildlife at the sanctuary and Took the time to explain exactly why and how the animals should be treated. Children would find this place unreal. It's like a petting zoo 247. Being surrounded by nature Was a very rewarding experience for my fiancee and I who both come from the big city. We had a great time, and we do believe that we may have in facan see our first born child together here at the Fauna Sanctuary. I hope you have the time of your life!! Ps. The in-ground pool built towards the back of the retreat is absolutely amazing for an early morning swim!!! JOHN BOSS

We arrived late, having driven from Sunshine Coast Airport and Rod was great organizing us. It is very secure with a coded entry gate. Cabins are clean and comfortable with a queen bed and single in the standard cabins in one open room with a separate bathroom. Lovely really hot shower. Kitchen has fridge and microwave. All have Aircon unit and tv. All cabin balcony’s face the lovely lake, which is filled with turtles, ducks and geese. They and the corellas come in for a feed in the morning. You are woken by a colcophony of bird song. Thoroughly enjoying our stay. Rod and Deb are also very friendly, helpful and can organise tourist activities. We will be returning.

We have just had an excellent 3 night stay at Sanctuary Lakes. We found the owners to be friendly, helpful and considerate. The villas are a bit dated but they are clean, comfortable and adequately equipped. All villas are located lakeside so you can feed the ducks, turtles, corellas etc from your veranda. As a special treat you can also feed the wild possums in the evening with the owner. Location is close to all the attractions in Hervey Bay. Great value for money and we would definitely stay here again.

I had booked accommodation on booking .com for this place and when I arrived , the manager told me they had cancelled my booking because I was a local. They did not ring me to let me know, they did this . I read there policys there were no rules about where you come from I never heard such nonsense, I have always been a clean and respectful person and find these managers to be very rude. Do not stay there..

Amazing hidden place in an urban centre. Separate units which look out on the lagoon. Lots of birds moving about and roosting on the trees in the lagoon. Postive hosts with a real care for the local scene and their pet ducks.