Waterfront Lodge Motel

We paid $600 for two nights and two rooms, but ended up finding somewhere else to stay because we didn’t feel safe or respected. The reception area smelled of smoke and felt outdated and unpleasant. We’d booked through Booking.com and took the message saying check-in had changed to 10 a.m. at face value. When we arrived, nobody greeted us promptly. The staff member who eventually appeared was rude and dismissive. He interrupted us when we tried to clarify things, said the early check-in was only for dropping off luggage, and refused to look at the booking confirmation we offered to show him, even though the message hadn’t explained that. Having extensive hospitality experience, I found his behaviour completely unacceptable and unwelcoming. This was the worst customer service experience I’ve ever had. If basic courtesy and a smoke-free, welcoming place matter to you, avoid it.

The rates were great, but there were plenty of letdowns. The beds were very hard and uncomfortable unless that’s what you like, and the oil heater should have been condemned: one switch was loose and it only gave half heat. The rooms or the area clearly had some smoking. In the bathroom drawer, there was an empty toilet roll wrapper. The floors were lovely aged timber, but clearly hadn’t had a mop and bucket lately, and the shower curtain was hanging from four rings at either end with the middle swinging in the breeze for the next guests. The person on duty didn’t seem to understand that things were substandard, and it was no use arguing when he didn’t know how to listen. We booked two separate rooms for two nights with our travelling friends from QLD, and their company was great. The pictures had made a great first impression, though.

The room was basic and fine for an overnight stay. The location is perfect if you want to be close to town without having to hunt for a street parking spot. There was no lock on the room, though, and a little security goes a long way. The bathroom smelled, so we had to keep the door shut.

My room was clean and tidy, with extra bedding, but it was very small. This is at the budget end of accommodation, so it was okay for a shower and a sleep, just not somewhere to relax during the day.