Australia’s oldest family-owned ecotourism retreat, O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat in the Scenic Rim in Queensland, is turning 100 this year, a milestone that celebrates a century of adventure, innovation, and a deep connection to nature.
Historic and current images HERE
Since 1926, when the O’Reilly family opened their remote guesthouse in the heart of Lamington National Park, they’ve been pioneers of sustainable, immersive experiences for nature lovers. Today, run by third and fourth generation family members, the multi-award-winning retreat remains a beacon of eco-tourism, home to Australia’s first-ever treetop walkway and a legacy that spans generations.
To mark this centenary, O’Reilly’s is rolling out a year-long program of events, installations, guided walks, and special promotions. The celebrations kicked off with a launch at O’Reilly’s Canungra Valley Vineyards on Sunday, 8 March, where three exclusive wines commemorating the centenary were unveiled.
Back at the Retreat, visitors can explore a special interpretive display in the Guest House theatrette, tracing 100 years of family history, from the original guesthouse to the adventures of today’s generation. Outside, a display of vintage O’Reilly machinery will be on show, all free for guests to explore at their leisure. Visitors can also enjoy classic Billy Tea and damper on the Guest House lawn midweek from 9 March to 29 May (10:30am–12pm), with large groups welcome. For the adventurous, a weekly guided hike along the historic Stockyard Track is being hosted, offering a scenic challenge and a journey through the family’s rich history.
Top Five Moments in O’Reilly’s History
- Bernard O’Reilly, National Hero (1937) – Bernard’s legendary ten-day trek to rescue survivors of the Stinson plane crash remains a defining story of courage. Guests today can retrace his footsteps on the 37km hike to Christmas Creek.
- Big Pete & the Treetop Walk – Visionary Big Pete O’Reilly created the world’s first eco-friendly treetop walkway, spanning nine suspension bridges and rising 16 metres above the rainforest floor.
- Pat’s Farm – This world-class luxury eco-retreat features five architect-designed off-grid chalets overlooking the Great Dividing Range, complete with ducted air-conditioning and heated plunge pools.
- Lamington National Park – A World Heritage-listed Gondwana rainforest, home to rare and unique species like the blue Lamington crayfish, Fleay’s barred frog, and Albert’s lyrebird.
- A Century of Visitors – Since opening in 1926, O’Reilly’s has welcomed over 2.8 million overnight guests, who have collectively explored more than 28 billion kilometres of Lamington National Park.
The People Carrying the Legacy
- Shane O’Reilly – Third-generation Managing Director, Shane continues to champion his family’s values while evolving the Retreat into a world-leading eco-tourism destination, blending conservation, hospitality, and innovation.
- Grace O’Reilly (19) – Fourth-generation and daughter of Shane, Grace works at both O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat and Canungra Valley Vineyards. She shares her passion: “Being part of our family business allows me to connect deeply to something my family has devoted their lives to for over 100 years. Hearing returning visitors’ stories from multiple generations reminds me why preserving and contributing to this legacy is so important.”
- Ned O’Reilly (22) – Fourth-generation and son of ‘Lil Pete’ and Megan, Ned describes his life on the mountain: “I’ve been coming to the mountain since birth – it’s my home. I feel awe exploring Lamington and a responsibility to continue educating people about the wonders of nature. Celebrating 100 years of welcoming guests is a true testament to our family’s dedication.”
For a full centenary calendar and event bookings: www.oreillys.com.au/centenary
Contact details:
Kath Rose 0416 291 493 [email protected]
