The Reef House Environmental and Social Commitment

Environmental Commitment

At The Reef House, we are dedicated to minimising our environmental impact through best-practice environmental management systems, aligned with our Environmental Sustainability Policy and the standards of all Accor properties.

Our approach combines daily operations with long-term initiatives to meet guest expectations and protect our natural surroundings.

Last year, we reduced energy consumption and single-use plastics. This year, our focus is on water conservation. Through audits of irrigation systems, plumbing, and underground pipes, we estimate saving 4.3 million litres of water — almost the equivalent of two Olympic-sized swimming pools.

Guests are gifted a reusable drink bottle to refill with filtered water at the Brigadier’s Bar. Recent upgrades such as a new pool filtration system, smart water meters, mulching, and native plant landscaping have improved both energy and water efficiency.

Environmental Strategy

Energy Efficiency

  • Installed energy-efficient 4.5-star air conditioning units with R32 refrigerant (66% lower global warming potential) in 18 rooms.
  • Air conditioning set to 24°C for optimal comfort and efficiency.
  • Units serviced every 6 months for clean filters and peak performance.
  • Transition from traditional timers to photoelectric light-activated controls.
  • Nightly checks to ensure rooms are not left with lights and A/C running.

Waste Reduction

Reducing Single-Use Plastics

  • Biodegradable slippers replace plastic versions.
  • Reusable glass bottles replace plastic water bottles.
  • Reusable cups replace poolside plastic cups.
  • Filtered water refill stations available for guests.
  • Plastic-free takeaway coffee cups.
  • Compostable bin bags to replace 42,000 plastic bags annually.

Other Initiatives

  • Eliminated single-use wipes.
  • Plastic-free single-serve teas.
  • Polystyrene fish boxes returned to supplier.
  • Recycling of Nespresso coffee pods.
  • Paperless daily audit reports — saving 37 reams of paper (two trees).
  • Egg packaging returned to supplier for reuse.
  • Cooking oils purchased in bulk 100L containers.
  • Complimentary reef-safe sunscreen supporting Palm Cove Surf Life Saving Club.
  • Staff bicycles provided to reduce driving, saving 10,400km annually.
  • Guest book and DVD recycling library

Maintenance Program

  • Property repainted using VOC-free paints.
  • Paint cans exchanged with suppliers.
  • Delux Envirowash system used to clean equipment safely.
  • Conversion of motor tools from combustion to battery power.

Recycling Practices

  • Containers repurposed for food storage.
  • All bottles recycled through Containers for Change.
  • Composting in the plant nursery.
  • Old A/C units recycled and de-gassed.
  • Old furniture and linen donated or repurposed.
  • Laundry towels and sheets reused as rags.
  • Furniture refurbished whenever possible.

Guest Education

Twice a week, guests are invited to a reef talk with a marine biologist to learn about the reef’s health and discover how they can help combat climate change.

Social & Economic Responsibility

We are committed to responsible, ethical practices that provide economic benefits for the community, support local businesses, and create employment opportunities.

Community Engagement & Local Economy

  • Buy Local Policy: Priority on sourcing locally.
  • Employing local tradespeople, including former local sports players for maintenance projects.
  • Local produce featured in our ‘Queensland on a Plate’ menu.
  • Partnerships with local tour operators and transfer providers.
  • Specialty products in rooms sourced from local artisans.
  • Locally made gifts showcased in the boutique.
  • Recruitment focused on local talent.
  • Luxury accommodation attracting high-value travellers to the region.

Sponsorships & Donations

  • Supporting local sports clubs and youth organisations, including Trinity Football Club, Trinity Beach Taekwondo, Trinity Beach Basketball, Mossman Judo, and Scotch College.
  • Donations to the Sammy D Foundation, helping young people live free from violence.

Ethical Responsibilities

Cultural & Heritage Preservation

  • Weekly cultural journeys with Shaun ‘Yalanjurr’ Creek, sharing Indigenous heritage.
  • Diverse, multicultural employment opportunities.
  • Preserving The Reef House legacy through displays, traditions (such as Brigadier’s drinks), historical articles, and photographs.
  • Commissioned a book on The Reef House and Palm Cove history.

Accessibility & Nature Care

  • Accessible amenities positioned for ease of use.
  • 350-year-old melaleuca trees inspected twice yearly by an arborist.
  • Landscaping with native tropical plants.
  • Organic and natural weed control methods.
  • Planting young melaleucas to replace aging ones.

Community Involvement

  • Collaborated with Tourism Palm Cove, TTNQ, businesses, and residents on the Palm Cove Development Plan.
  • Engaged a town planner to support community efforts in protecting the village’s character against unsuitable developments.

Inclusivity & Accessibility

Cultural & Heritage Preservation

As a heritage property, we work within the unique character of our building to deliver the most comfortable and accessible experience possible. We offer a dedicated wheelchair-accessible room, developed in consultation with an accessibility advisor who stayed with us to personally guide the necessary modifications for wheelchair users.

To ensure we meet your individual needs, we invite you to speak with our Personal Escape Planning Specialists on 07 4080 2600 prior to your stay. We also provide a selection of bathroom aids to enhance comfort and safety for guests who are frail, recovering from injury, or require additional support. These include a shower chair, toilet assist chair, and non-slip bath mats.

We also offer a discreet and private room that has been chosen by guests with terminal illnesses seeking a peaceful, memorable final holiday surrounded by loved ones.

Dietary Requirements

We believe dining should be a pleasure for every guest. All menus are clearly labelled for dietary needs, and with advance notice, our chefs are delighted to create personalised dishes to suit your requirements. Please contact our Personal Escape Planning Specialists on 07 4080 2600 so we can prepare in advance for your visit.

Languages

Our multicultural team, representing 11 nations and speaking eight languages—including our French Luxury Concierge—ensures warm, personalised service for guests from all over the world.

LGBTQIA+ Commitment

We proudly welcome all guests and are a member of GALTA, Australia’s peak LGBTQIA+ tourism body, reflecting our commitment to creating an inclusive and respectful environment for everyone.