Minor Hotels Welcomes Mark Hodge as Cluster General Manager for Oaks Cypress Lakes Resort and Elysia Wellness Retreat

November 2024: Minor Hotels is delighted to announce the appointment of Mark Hodge as Cluster General Manager for the iconic Oaks Cypress Lakes Resort and the renowned Elysia Wellness Retreat in the heart of the Hunter Valley. In his new role, Mark will oversee operations and set the strategic direction for both properties, leveraging his in-depth industry expertise and leadership skills to further elevate the guest experience and drive growth and performance across every team, from F&B to the 18-hole championship golf course and country club, to Elysia’s transformative wellness programs.  

Mark has had a distinguished career in the hospitality and tourism sectors and brings more than 30 years’ experience to the role. His most recent position was as General Manager Hotels & Residences at The Star Entertainment Group, and he has also served as Senior Vice President Operations (Apartments and Leases) with Accor and spent more than a decade with Mantra Group, contributing to the success of a raft of high-profile properties. 

Passionate about performance culture, building cohesive teams and managing with integrity, courage and empathy, Mark is a results-driven leader whose successful track record and management style make him the ideal choice to helm these award-winning properties and maximise their potential moving into 2025, and beyond.  

"We are delighted to welcome Mark to the Minor Hotels family,” said Craig Hooley, Chief Operating Officer of Minor Hotels Australasia. “His esteemed record for steering hotels to success, commitment to empowering teams and innovative approach will be critical to the continuing evolution of these two flagship properties, and to the strategic direction of Minor Hotels more broadly in our region, and I am confident he will have a profound impact on our staff and our valued guests.” 

“I am thrilled to join the Minor Hotels team to lead two incredible properties representing the very best of lifestyle, leisure and wellness in the beautiful Hunter Valley,” said Mark Hodge. “I am excited to work with the talented teams at both Oaks Cypress Lakes Resort and Elysia Wellness Retreat to further enhance the guest experience, develop exceptional teams, and ensure we are the destination of choice for this region for both leisure and corporate travellers.” 

Mark was named HM Australian General Manager of the Year in 2022, until recently was the Chair of Accommodation Australia, Queensland Advisory Committee, and is an active member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. 

Oaks Cypress Lakes Resort, nestled in Australia’s largest wine region, is a haven of tranquillity surrounded by lush vineyards and rolling hills. Guests can enjoy world-class accommodation, unforgettable dining at Oak & Vine, and access to the resort’s championship golf course, all set against a backdrop of stunning natural beauty.

Adjacent to the resort, Elysia Wellness Retreat provides a secluded sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. With tailored experiences for mind, body, and spirit, Elysia’s facilities include yoga and meditation studios, a wellness centre, outdoor and indoor pools, and a day spa offering over 50 therapies. Whether seeking a weekend escape or a full wellness journey, Elysia offers an immersive retreat in one of Australia’s most beautiful regions.

About Oaks Hotels, Resorts & Suites 

Genuine, comfortable, down to earth and welcoming, Oaks Hotels, Resorts & Suites is an industry leader in upper mid-scale serviced apartment-style accommodation. Combining the convenience of a hotel with an apartment’s flexibility, Oaks’ fully equipped rooms and suites offer freedom, space and independence to a wide variety of modern travellers. Each Oaks property prides itself on connecting visitors to the spirit of its city centre or regional locale at an ever-expanding portfolio of more than 60 properties in Australia, China, India, New Zealand, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.

Oaks is part of global hospitality group Minor Hotels and a member of the GHA DISCOVERY loyalty programme. Visit oakshotels.com for more information and connect with Oaks on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

About Elysia Wellness Retreat

Located in the Hunter Valley, the secluded retreat offers an immersive wellness experience for mind, body and spirit. Whether it’s a full week of rejuvenation or a weekend stay, Elysia’s vast array of experiences and spa treatments will suit anyone’s needs. Facilities include three indoor yoga and meditation studios, a wellness centre, meditation hill, vegetable garden, outdoor and indoor swimming pools, fully equipped gymnasium and indoor cycle room, tennis court, activity court and walking tracks. The Day Spa at Elysia offers over 50 therapies and treatment in-keeping with Elysia’s holistic and natural approach health and beauty.

Elysia Wellness Retreat Instagram: @ElysiaWellnessRetreat Elysia Wellness Retreat Facebook:  Facebook.com/ElysiaWellnessRetreat  Website: www.elysiaretreat.com.au