A gorgeous private island off the coast of Cairns in Queensland is now for sale – and one of the country’s wealthiest businessmen is reported to be an eager potential buyer. If his wife approves, of course.
(Image Courtesy of VPI)
A celeb-loved island in northern Australia has recently hit the market, and interest has already been strong from eager potential buyers. Double Island, named for its scenic twin peaks, lies across from Palm Cove, which is just a 30km drive from Cairns. Known as one of the most exclusive – and pricey – island resorts in the country, Double is only available for rental in entirety, and has been popular for luxe weddings and corporate retreats, not to mention hosting celebrity guests like Keanu Reeves and Brad Pitt. Earlier this summer, it was listed for sale through local broker Jay Beattie of Colliers International Cairns. The asking price is AUD $8,000,000, with 88 years left on the island’s 99-year lease prior to renewal.
(Image Courtesy of VPI)
Among the interested parties has been well-known Australian entrepreneur Geoffrey Edelsten, a former doctor who amassed a fortune through medical services venture, including paternity testing, fly-in care to remote communities, and most famously, medical centres he dubs “superclinics” that operate around the clock and often feature extravagant décor. He married his second wife, Brynne Gordon, in 2009, who is a glamorous 27-year old former fitness instructor from California. A spokesperson for Mr. Edelsten confirmed that he and his wife were certainly interested in the island, and that they inspected the island together early in August.
Having visited the island in 2009, it’s easy to see why it would be such a sought-after property – The luxurious, beautifully designed villas are secluded along a flowered garden path, each with a private plunge pool. A main guest area features a stunning multi-level pool surrounded by vast palms and the songs of tropical birds, close to a large entertainment complex and peaceful waterfront gazebos. The island itself, often navigated by golf cart, is filled with natural wonders, like the long, expansive sandy beaches, untouched forests, and native wildlife such as majestic eagles and a secretive group of wallabies.
(Image Courtesy of VPI)
Double Island, together with the nearby mainland resort of Kewarra Beach, is currently owned by the Australian technology entrepreneur Sean Howard, who founded the ground-breaking OzEmail, which was at one time the country’s largest internet services provider, which was bought out by the now-defunct WorldCom. Another earlier venture was an empire of computer magazines including Australian Personal Computer, which quickly became the country’s the top-selling magazine for techies. He reportedly decided to sell Double after purchasing another remote isle, Wailagi Lala in the northern part of Fiji’s Lau Group. Perhaps for Mr. Howard, one paradise island is just enough.
Read more about Double Island: Vladi Private Islands
