Whatever type of life you live, chances are today’s fast-paced world has your body beat. Everyone needs space to switch off their phone and relax, and Bartercard members can do so without the blow out cost at Living Valley.
Tucked away in Kin Kin, north of Noosa on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, Living Valley is a calming sanctuary serving up a range of programs combining traditional and conventional treatments like naturopathy, remedial therapies, massage and steam baths, detox, pilates, fitness, psychology and counselling, all set in beautiful surrounds.
Its founders Gary and Debbie Martin were Sydney professionals who decided to take a sea change over 30 years ago to study natural medicine. They founded the 145 acre Kin Kin retreat with their original partners Les and Kaye Shaw in 1990, to relieve sickness, suffering and distress while providing optimal care for the body and mind. Today their daughter Giselle Alford is continually refining the operation as CEO while managing a team of over 50 personnel.
Conserving $2 million cash in business
“Since joining Bartercard 21 years ago, we’ve conserved over $2 million at Living Valley across expansion and renovation, advertising and marketing, travel, gifts and team bonuses,” she said.
“Our fitness trainer and his family took a Bartercard holiday on Norfolk Island, while others spend their trade dollars at cafes, restaurants, motels and gift shops.”
Bartercard stays are exclusive – the seven-day healthy holiday package is available to just one Bartercard guest per week, but it’s created exposure in a competitive market and many cash-paying referrals for the business.
Members use Bartercard to conserve cash and Giselle said Bartercard essentially supports a marketing budget.
“We welcome guests on Bartercard and they always tell other people about their experience – it’s one of the main advantages of joining the trade-based marketplace.”
The retreat recently used Bartercard to purchase new flooring for their on-site shop, paying for the materials in cash and putting the labour on Bartercard. They also used Bartercard to purchase special flooring for their new gym.
“There is a jeweller in Brisbane who accepts Bartercard which is great for gifts,” said Gary.
“I believe he uses his trade dollars to buy property. There is also a clock shop at Montville on Bartercard, where I was able to purchase a $1,800 watch for a staff member in appreciation for twenty years’ service.
“Bartercard provides many ways to spend trade dollars instead of cash.”
Living Valley has a full-service day-spa to boot, using all-natural and chemical-free clean beauty products.
If you want to take a break, we’ve found the leading place. Visit lvs.com.au, book a customised healthy holiday to rest and rejuvenate, and make cash savings along the way!
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