Cathy Maloney

I am 60 years young! Following a fleeting moment after high school as a cadet journalist, a Dip Ed resulting in teaching infants and primary, special education and “English as a second language” youngsters then in 1979 become infused in the then fledgling Australian tourism business with husband Terry. We were immersed in our tourism businesses for 35 years but also had our greatest reward of being part of an incredibly close family and where our three daughters and now their families are our best friends and our “everything”. We worked hard and forged our way as “pioneers” of experiential travel from the 1970’s and 20 years ago we successfully combined ecotourism, wellness and indigenous culture in the founding of Daintree Eco Lodge & Spa, a small upmarket lodge set in the world’s oldest rainforest, the Daintree in tropical north Queensland. The epitome of that hard work was recognised through many national and international awards, culminating in taking on the “best of the best in the world” and being recognised as the “World’s Leading Eco Lodge” (twice) at the World Travel Awards. Life is full of highs and lows, and our journey has had its share of adversities balanced with the most enlightening, uplifting and enriching experiences along the way. However, early last year we were dealt a big blow when our business, beloved family home and long-term investment properties were forcibly removed from our life and we faced and experienced financial collapse. Such a massive re-adjustment is hard ... to say the least. Whilst “time heals” we also know that every moment of life is precious and cannot be wasted. Terry’s “ever positive attitude” (in the face of EVERY adversity) took us to the middle of the outback for an adventure and a new beginning.