WORD FROM AROUND THE RESORTS

THE QUINTESSENTIAL QUARTERLY UPDATE FOR MEMBERS OF HOLIDAY CONCEPTS, HC ASIA PACIFIC AND VACATION GOLD CLUB.THE 2014 AUTUMN EDITION

Let’sGO!

It’s that time of year! The kids are back at school and life is getting back to normal at the resorts. Now that the maintenance fees have been received, all of the major projects, renovations and refurbishments for 2014 will soon get underway at the resorts.

All Holiday Concepts resorts (with the exception of Mt Martha) are being refurbished with new bedspreads and/or coverlets along with scatter cushions to compliment them. Many of the resorts have installed new queen-size and single beds with designer bases and we are upgrading the single beds to king singles where possible. Existing bedding will be fitted with valances to complete the new look. Each resort will also undergo major upgrades replacing or upgrading refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines, clothes dryers, cooktops, microwave /convection ovens, air-conditioners and hot water systems as required. Table lamps will be added to the lounge areas to add ambience to the units.

Keep reading on for the upcoming work being undertaken at each individual resort - you will be pleasantly surprised by the improvements ahead;

Lakeside Country Club (Numurkah, VIC)Lakeside have focused on the redevelopment of the mini-golf course as the major project to complete between now and the end of the calendar year. With the 5th hole nearing completion they are on target to finish the 9 holes in time for the Christmas holidays. Greg Norman would be proud. There have been ongoing upgrades of the extensive garden beds around the resort with an emphasis on low maintenance and drought-tolerant plants given the hot spell this summer. The interior of two units are scheduled to be painted short-ly to complete a major project involving 48 units at Lakeside Country Club. Susan & Darren Plum have just celebrated their first anniversary managing the Lakeside Country Club and have made a considerable impression on the resort.

Tamarind Sands (Cabarita Beach, NSW)Tamarind Sands have completed the installation of new couches and sofa beds in all units and have just taken delivery of 38 King single beds. The two BBQ areas have been resurfaced and have new outdoor furniture that has freshened up the area considerably. Four units will have new bench-tops fitted as part of an ongoing upgrade project. Resort Managers John & Yvonne White are in full-swing after making the move up to Cabarita from The Bright Resort three months ago.

Bellbrae Country Club (Bellbrae - near Torquay, VIC)We have completed fitting new curtains in 26 units and are currently in the process of installing new decking around the entrance of the swim-ming pool, spa and games room. New gardens beds outside the approach to Reception will greet our members and guests before the end of the financial year. Water pipes from under some of the original units are being relocated to alleviate the ‘clunk and clatter’ noise in the middle of the night. Keith & Deb Thompson are in their 8th year managing the Bellbrae Country Club and are doing an extremely good job given the undulating nature of the resort - adding to their ‘to-do list’ quicker than they can tick them off!

The Bright Resort (Bright, VIC)The Bright Resort has welcomed new queen-size and single beds in 10 units, as well as new ceiling fans installed in the second bedrooms of the remaining 20 units. We are also trialling new energy–saving remote controls for the reverse cycle air-conditioners in all units. When the swimming pool temporarily closes after the Easter school holidays the surrounds will be resurfaced along with the spa area. Resort Managers Ian & Traci Boreham have been back at The Bright Resort for 3 months after being away for nearly 9 years. Stints at Kerami Gardens in Marysville, the Bright Caravan Park and more recently with Holiday Concepts at Whitecliffs Beach Resort in Rye, Ian and Traci are “glad to be home!”

Marine Cove Resort (Goolwa, SA)Marine Cove has a huge couple of months coming up with four new kitch-ens being installed (including new flooring), new drapes in nine units and modern roller blinds across the entire resort that will absorb most of the budget this year. Award-winning Resort Managers Graeme & Dianne Doolan are in their fourth year at Marine Cove and doing an incredible job. This effort was reflected with the resort rated the best by members and guests in 2013.

Whitecliffs Beach Resort (Rye, VIC)Whitecliffs are undergoing repairs on showers and baths in 9 units, upgrading to LED lighting in 10 units and replacing carpets in 4 units. They have installed a new gas heater for the pool and will be doing some remodelling of the BBQ area and kids playground area. Frank and Liz Goggin round out the triangular shift of manager moves in the group, returning to Whitecliffs after being at the helm of Marine Cove and Tamarind Sands for the past 8 years.

Island Breeze Resort (Cowes, VIC)Island Breeze have opened their new Mini Golf course on-site for the enjoyment of adults and kids alike. The last four units are soon to be painted and new carpet laid - a major overall improvement for Island

Breeze. The age of the property, combined with the harsh conditions that hit Phillip Island each year has led to some structural replacements required for the timber work and windows. Stuart & Heidi Hawking have stamped their mark on Island Breeze after four fantastic years in charge.

Regent Park Apartments (Sandy Bay, TAS)Regent Park have had a ‘bricks and mortar’ year with its extensive repairs and refurbishment budget. An exciting new addition will be a viewing deck on the top floor accessible for all guests and will overlook the beautiful Derwent River, Wrest Point Casino and the north shore in the near future. Fire-rated entry doors, new lever handles, power points in the second bedrooms and new shower heads are to be completed before the end of the financial year. The replacement of six old hot water systems have also been made a priority. Resort Managers Simon and Donna Stankovic have been offering their unique form of hospitality to our members and guests for close to five years and we hope they will continue to do so in the years to come.

Mt. Martha Valley Resort (Safety Beach, VIC)Members and guests will be pleased to know that electric blankets will be added to all beds in time for winter this year - ready to combat the chilly Mornington Peninsula winter ahead. The ongoing internal paint-ing of units along with the addition of new curtains and blinds will be completed shortly. Resort Manager Rohan Sharp has added a breath of fresh air to the resort since joining Holiday Concepts. Two breakfasts are now operating each week and the BBQ area has been enclosed/heated for the winter months. The adjoining Safety Beach Country Club offers our guests free golf from Monday to Friday and have just built a magnificent Mini Golf course that is second to none on the Mornington Peninsula!

Riviera Beach Resort (Lakes Entrance, VIC)Mandy and Shayne Clarke are in their eighth year as managers and have transformed the resort. The grounds, new games room, new kitchens in all units and resurfacing of the front verandas have all enhanced the appearance and amenities of the Riviera Beach Resort. We couldn’t be prouder. A new perimeter fence will soon replace the older timber picket fence, and as has been the case across the Holiday Concepts group - new king single beds to complement the new bedspreads are due soon (as well as new bedside tables on order).

If you haven’t visited a Holiday Concepts resort lately, make it a priority in 2014. There’s plenty for our owners to be excited about!

Gary Child Resort Operations ManagerHOLIDAY CONCEPTS GROUP

All enquiries to: The Editor, Let’s Go, PO Box 2287, Richmond South, VIC, 3121. Ph: 1300 369 463 Fax: (03) 9421 1366 Email: reservations@holidayconcepts.com.au

Member Services. One Phone Call. 1300 369 463. Follow the prompts all the way to your next holiday…

1. Spend some time with family or friends putting together a list of all possible dates you could travel over the next two years.

The earlier you make your initial enquiry with Holiday Concepts the more time we have on our side to work towards securing your holiday.

2. Suggest areas you would like to visit rather than focusing on one specific resort. Consider whether timeshare resorts are developed in these areas, and if so - are there many to choose from?

Timeshare resorts are generally located in coastal or regional areas and only very rarely found in major cities. If it’s the city that your heart desires, ask us about our alternative rental options - you might be pleasantly suprised with the rates we can offer on accommodation in cities such as New York, London and Paris! 3. Nothing currently available to exchange into when you call? This isn’t uncommon. The next logical step is placing an ongoing request for you with our range of Trade Partners. This search runs 24/7 to locate the availability that you want!

A common misconception is that if there is nothing immediately available for a particular resort or date, it will continue to be unavailable. This isn’t the case! Exchanging works very differently to booking your week at a Holiday Concepts resort and relies on members that own with those particular resorts to deposit their week instead of staying there that year. All resorts work differently, meaning one may decided to give their exchange availability for the year in one big block, whilst others may give smaller amounts out at different stages of the year.

4. The majority of timeshare resorts around the world are unlikely to give much time (if at all) to exchange companies during their peak periods (eg. school holidays, Christmas and New Year) as they have a responsibility to give their owners this availability first! With this in mind, having the ability to avoid peak times will always present more exchange options. Remember, you can alter your request at any time without compromising your place on that waitlist. We endeavour to do everything in our power to find the holiday you want. Whilst we can never guarantee a match, placing an ongoing request as far as possible in advance will do wonders for your future holidays (and save you money in the process).

If the exchange system seems more complex than the Da Vinci Code and you don’t know where you’re going wrong, this is for you!

Here are four helpful tips to get the ball rolling on your next exchange holiday...

BRIAN CALLS IT A DAY AT LAkESIDE COUNTRY CLUBAfter 13 years of loyal service to the Lakeside Country Club and Holiday Concepts, Brian Gentle retired on January 31 this year. Brian joined the team at Lakeside when Karen and I were Resort Managers and took on the role of Grounds Supervisor. As Karen and I moved into Resort Operations we left Brian to run the resort in our absence, contributing so much more than we could have expected or wanted. As Resort Managers we could not wish for a better right-hand man.

Brian will be best remembered by our members and guests for his happy disposition around the resort (and particularly at breakfasts), but mostly for driving the mini-bus on the weekly tour around the food, wine and produce outlets in the surrounding area. With Brian along for the ride, plently of jokes, laughs and even the odd spontaneous sing-a-long was the order of the day. Brian is now committed to his lawn bowls, the pursuit of catching that elusive Murray Cod and Richmond winning another Premiership. Enjoy your retirement Brian – it is well deserved. Oh, and Go Tigers!

Gary Child - Resort Operations Manager Left to Right - Derek Reynolds (Club Administrator), Brian Gentle and Gary Child (Resort Operations Manager)

Keep up with all of the best bonus weeks, special offers, cruises and tours by subscribing to Ultimate Escapes.

A range of unbelievable deals delivered straight to your inbox every week.

?

Arthurs Seat State Park Its incredible 314 metre summit offers breathtaking views of Port Phillip Bay.

Balnarring back beach Witness the beauty of crashing waves as you take a leisurely stroll along the coastline. Wineries With a collection of award wining wineries across the Peninsula, it would be rude not to stop and enjoy a glass of home-grown vino. Our favourite is T’Gallant!

Dromana 3 Drive In Enjoy a movie under the stars. Bomber jackets, neck-scarves and popcorn optional!

Markets From Mornington to Mount Eliza, you’ll always find a gem at the regular markets on offer.

Portsea Enjoy a drive down to Portsea and have lunch at the picturesque Portsea Hotel.

Golf With over 10 courses scattered across the region, there are more than enough fairways to keep the avid golf enthusiast easily-entertained.

Peninsula Hot Springs For ultimate relaxation and complete indulgence, we promise you’ll be floating on cloud nine as you walk out. Mazes Get lost with the family inside the Mornington Peninsula’s Enchanted Adventure Garden or the Ashcombe Maze and Lavender Garden.

Boating and Fishing Soak up the sunshine and marine life and get out on the water. For the more adventurous, jump in and enjoy guided diving / snorkelling activities.

The Mornington Peninsula commands a fearsome reputation as the number one Victorian holiday destination during the summer, but this picturesque stretch of rugged coastline more than holds its own against its countryside counterparts in the colder months.

Mornington PeninsulaWake up on the

this winter

Photos courtesy of Mornington Peninsula Tourism

Stay in touch with us via our facebook page www.facebook.com/penlifestyle

Where tostay!

Whitecliffs Beach Resort, Rye (Holiday Concepts) Right across the road from the Rye foreshore and with plenty of on-site facilites, this is a resort the entire family will fall in love with.

Mt Martha Valley Resort, Safety Beach (Holiday Concepts)

Perfect for those wanting a peaceful week away on the Peninsula. Free weekday golf and tennis for members at the adjacent Safety Beach Country Club makes this resort one a hole-in-one!

Nepean Country Club, Boneo (Exchange) Modern facilities and day-spa on-site for those that like their timeshare weeks with a hint of luxury.

Explore the Mornington Peninsula the smart way!- Download the Peninsula Lifestyle App today! -

Available on iTunes and Google Play

Here are a few tips that have helped me maximise the value of my timeshare purchase; - If I’m planning to use my week at a Holiday Concepts resort I will use my current week. That way my annual maintenance fee covers the seven nights (without the need to pay an additional deferral fee).

- When I plan to travel outside of the Holiday Concepts group I try to book or place a request at least 12-18 months in advance. Having this window of time always maximises my exchange options!

- Committing to one holiday per year with my week means that I keep on track with my entitlement weeks.

- Because there can be a little more involved in planning my timeshare holiday, I try to stay ahead of the pack. Leaving important holidays to the last-minute always limits my options. However, having my ownership week planned and confirmed early also frees up the opportunity to take up cheap bonus weeks and weekends during the off-peak times of the year. Scott Senior Consultant and Holiday Concepts timeshare owner.

“It’s always a good idea to double-check booking confirmations when they arrive in the post or via email. If you change your postal address, contact telephone numbers or email address at any time, make sure you update this with us. We can’t advise you of important information if we can’t reach you! “ Elisa Member Services Team Leader and timeshare owner.

“When it comes to any kind of booking in a capital city we can offer great rental rates through our trade partners, as well as having our affiliated travel agent on-hand for competitive hotel rates.” Jessica Member Services Consultant / Ultimate Escapes .

“We limit bonus week access to guests of owners at our resorts during peak periods for good reason - it ensures that our members paying maintenance levies each year have priority access to this availability first! Johnson HCAP Consultant (Asia Pacific).

“Maximum room occupancy limits are strictly enforced at all timeshare resorts (and this includes infants). There are reasons for this - the resorts must adhere to a range of fire, health and safety regulations. Don’t arrive thinking they’ll make an exception - it’s likely someone in your travelling party will be driving home before they’ve even checked in! That’s not fun for anyone. “ Natalie Senior International Trade Partner Consultant .

“ Whether you want to book a Holiday Concepts resort or an exchange week - Holiday Concepts Member Services are the people to speak to! We liaise with the trade partners so you don't have to. We're also here to search availability and confirm your RCI bookings. “ Saranda Senior Consultant / HC Direct Coordinator.

“Maintenance levies can be paid in a variety of ways. We recommend BPAY as it’s secure, you have control over the amount you pay and how frequently you do so. Contributing $15 per week will put you in good stead for the years ahead! Garreth & Ashlee Accounts / Member Services

Our Member Services team share some valuable hints and tips when coming to use your Holiday Concepts membership effectively each and every year!

“It can be difficult for small-business owners to commit to a week’s holiday so far in advance. Our flexible cancellation policies allow you to book up to 2 years in advance and cancel up to 30 days from the check-in date without losing your entitlement week in the process. Lock down your September school holidays now and have up until mid-August to cancel if you need to!” Adam Member Services Consultant / Let’s GO Editor.

Check out the FAQ section of our website by clicking here

Or speak to us directly by calling us on 1300 369 463.

“What is a Deferral Fee?” A week is free-of-charge when used towards a

Holiday Concepts resort booking that falls in the same year of the week’s entitlement eg. using a 2014 week

to confirm Whitecliffs in November, 2014.

Any time a week is used outside of its year of entitlement requires payment of a Deferral Fee

(currently AU$135 ).

Have a questionabout your membership?

'' Last year I was able to spend time at Kyneton, Surfers Royale (Surfers Paradise) and the Bellbrae Country Club ''

If you’ve ever dreamt of taking your family on a Disney-themed holiday of a lifetime, it’s time we introduced you to the Orange Lake Resort in Orlando, Florida. ‘Buena Vista, baby!’

Want to know more about Florida?

Speak with Jessica in Member Services - as a former employee of Walt Disney World in Orlando, Jessica brings a wealth of knowledge to the Member Services Team - giving you the kind of advice only a local would know!

ORANGE LAKE RESORT

READ ON FOR A SPECIAL

FLORIDA FLY/CRUISE PACkAGE

FOR HOLIDAY CONCEPTS MEMBERS!

Developed and run by the Holiday Inn Club Vacations brand since 1982, the Orange Lake Resort is the premiere family resort for timeshare owners and guests in sunny Florida. Just minutes from some of the greatest theme parks on the planet - the likes of Walt Disney World®, Universal Studios and SeaWorld Orlando are right on your doorstep. If the theme parks weren’t riding high on your to-do list, you could ‘stay and play’ at the resort for seven nights and never be bored!

Here’s a couple of reasons to consider the Orange Lake Resort as your next exchange holiday;

- Orange Lake boasts a total of 2,478 Villas spread across 1,450 acres (making it one of the few timeshare resorts of its calibre readily available through the RCI exchange network throughout the year). - This resort is so large that it had be split into 4 separate villages. Each village offers a distinctive taste of resort-style living with luxurious amenities!

- There are a total of seven pools, including a 1200 ft river-style pool complete with water-slides, kids wading pool and interactive fountains, four golf courses (two signature courses designed by Arnold Palmer), restaurant and dining options, complimentary Wi-Fi and shuttle services between each village.

- If you’re lucky enough to snap up a 3 bedroom villa, you’ll have enough room to accommodate up to 12 people (now’s the time to plan ahead, book the week and start working out who will be lucky enough to make your invite list!)

- Shuttle services run between the villages daily - giving you access to absolutely everything the resort has to offer.

- Other resort amenities include Putt-Putt, Family Fun Zone, basketball and tennis courts, fitness centers, bars and restaurants.

“ BOOk ME IN TODAY”

Call Member Services on 1300 369 463 (Option 1) Exchange your week with RCI for AU$269*OR Let us find you a quote on a rental week - RCI membership is essential and starts at AU$59* for one year!

* Current special rate for Holiday Concepts Members

Jacksonville approx. 2 hours north-east

Daytona Beach approx. 1 hour north-east

Cape Canaveral (Space Coast / Cocoa Beach) approx. 1 hour east

Tampa approx. 1hr 15mins south-west

Fort Lauderdale approx. 3 hours south-east

Miami approx. 3.5 hours south-east

Everglades National Park approx. 4.5 hours south-east

Hit the road and see more of the ‘Sunshine State’

Orlando(by car) to;

Orange Lake not your kind of holiday? Not to worry...

There are over 370 different

exchange and rental resorts across Florida affiliated with RCI,

making it one of the top timeshare destinations on the planet!

visit www.rci.com and browse the resort directory to see where

your next holiday may take you!

PACKAGE INCLUDES; • Return air fares Sydney to Tampa, Florida

and return Los Angeles to Sydney. • 2 nights’ accommodation in Tampa.

• 13 night Panama Canal Cruise on board Carnival Legend in Ocean view Cabin.

• All port charges taxes, gratuities and Airport fees.

* Price and Itinerary are to be used as a guide only Price are based on per person, twin share. Cabin categories include prepaid government fees and port taxes or unless otherwise stated. Airfares are based on economy class and subject to the carriers’ flight schedules and conditions. Transfers are not included. Package prices are subject to change or be withdrawn without notice Prices shown are for payments made by cash. Payments made by credit card will

incur a surcharge. Further conditions may apply please contact our travel consultant for more information. All bookings are facilitated through Our Vacation Centre (OVC), Travel licence No. 3008099

* All deal prices correct as of 7 March 2014. Please call your consultant for latest details.

‘Want the best available options for flights, cruise and tour deals, car hire and travel insurance? Speak to our travel team today by calling 1300 369 463 and selecting OPTION 3 at the prompts -

OR email travel@holidayconcepts.com.au’✈TRAVEL

AU$4,395 Per Person Twin Share

AU$975 Per Person Twin Share

WAVE GOODBYE TO THE ORDINARY ON ONE OF THESE AMAZING CRUISE SPECIALS!

Carnival Cruise Lines, Carnival Spirit

March Madness8 Night South Pacific Cruise Round trip Sydney

Selected departure in December 2014

Inside (4A) Twin Share

APT, MS Amavida Douro Delights7 Night Portugal River Cruise between

Porto and Barca D’Alva

Selected departure in July 2014

Outside (D) Twin Share

‘Like’ Holiday Concepts on Facebook to join the conversation and hear about our best deals first!

www.facebook.com/holidayconcepts

AU$4,949* Per Person

Gators, Glades and the Panama Fly / Cruise Package

15 days

AU$2,720* Per Person

AU$4,311* Per Person

Best of Italy and Sicily 2014

15 days

Traditional north to passionate south, this odyssey traces the length of Italy, exploring its cultural and geographical diversity by land and sea. It's Insider moments like… the knowledge of your Local Expert casting light on the shadows of Agrigento, one of the greatest ancient cities of the Mediterranean.

Walking among the ruins, it's hearing how a Greek settlement on the coast of Sicily helped the tyrant Thero fight for control of the island. And it's seeing the piety of ruthless regimes as you wander between the cool pillars of the Temple of Concord, searching for marks of the enemy fire that scarred its walls more than 2,400 years before.

AAT Kings

Contrasts of New Zealand

* Price and Itinerary are to be used as a guide only / Price are based on per person, twin share / Seasonal surcharges and supplier conditions apply

* Price based on per person, twin share/seasonal surcharges may apply to alternative departure dates/ Must book and pay in full by 31 March 2014/Supplier Conditions apply

SELECT FROM 4 INCREDIBLE TOURS TO SEE THE WORLD YOUR WAY!

✈TRAVEL * All deal prices correct as of 7 March 2014. Please call your consultant for latest details.

AU$3,164* Per Person

AU$4,209* Per Person

Albatross Tours

German and Austr ian Christmas Markets

10 days

Imagine…  Christmas approaching and being there as snowlines creep lower down the mountain sides and forests start to droop under the weight of snowfalls. Towns and villages stir in anticipation of the festivities ahead and the old, medieval squares become filled with fabulous Christmas markets. This festive tour has been specially designed to, not only capture the magic of some of Europe’s greatest and most nostalgic Christmas Markets but also takes you through a dramatic winter wonderland, to enjoy visits to castles perched on craggy hillsides and savour the warm, local hospitality.

Peregrine

A n t i q u i t i e s o f A s i a

Though not as famous as the likes of Angkor Wat or Burma's Shwedagon Pagoda, Thailand's historic city of Ayuthaya is no less remarkable. Between the 14th to 18th centuries, it became one of the largest and most developed urban areas in the world, and a centre of diplomacy and commerce in its own right. Despite its strength, an attack from the Burmese army in 1767 almost reduced the city to rubble. Though never rebuilt, a visit here still leaves no doubt of the city's former majesty.

* Price and Itinerary are to be used as a guide only/Price are based on per person, twin share Seasonal surcharges and supplier conditions apply.

* Price and Itinerary are to be used as a guide only/Price are based on per person, twin share. Seasonal surcharges and supplier conditions apply.

13 days

10 days

Be amazed by the contrasts of the North and South Island on a 10 day First Choice guided expedition. Explore Auckland, Waitomo Caves, Rotorua, Cook, Franz Josef Glacier, Milford Sound plus more.

‘Want the best available options for flights, cruise and tour deals, car hire and travel insurance? Speak to our travel team today by calling 1300 369 463 and selecting OPTION 3 at the prompts -

OR email travel@holidayconcepts.com.au’

Trafalgar