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Club Wyndham Port Douglas is nestled in the heart of one of Australia’s most spectacular natural environments. It’s no surprise that Owner Renato Tosello has a deep appreciation for the diverse wildlife that thrives within and around the resort. Renato’s passion for nature and his unique encounters with local wildlife are inspiring, and we had the opportunity to connect with him to learn more about his experiences at the resort.
1. What inspired your interest in the wildlife around Club Wyndham Port Douglas and with other resorts?
Renato has always had a deep interest in nature. He explains, “I’ve always been interested in nature and felt all of nature should be treated with respect as we are co-inhabitants. Wildlife in Port Douglas opens up a whole new world for me as it’s very different to Melbourne/Victoria and not to mentions that we are in a heritage environment. Every time we are in Port Douglas we experience new and interesting features and wildlife.”
2. Can you share some of your favorite wildlife encounters or animal sightings at the resort?
Renato has had some truly memorable wildlife encounters at Wyndham Port Douglas. “We always look forward to seeing a Ulysses butterfly, and they never disappoint as they are always around at the resort.” He also enjoys watching the barramundi grow over time, feeding them, and observing how the species continues to evolve. The resort is home to a variety of wildlife that can be hard to spot, depending on the time of year. Renato shared a particularly unique sighting of magpie geese, “They don’t necessarily live in the resort, but they come in to nest and then herd their chicks out once they’re hatched. They even nest in unusual places like on a roof or verandah, and after the chicks are born, they guide them out of the resort to a safer area.”
3. How do you incorporate your love for animals into your stays at Club Wyndham?
One of Renato’s great passions is photography, especially capturing nature and wildlife. “Capturing things on film allows us to look back appreciate and remember our experience and our time at the resort. I love to discover new and different things and the Port Douglas never disappoints allowing me to take new and different photos on each visit.”
4. What advice would you give to other owners who want to explore the wildlife around Port Douglas?
Renato’s advice for fellow owners is simple but important: “We need to exercise common sense and safety first in any scenario and we need to remember some species can be dangerous (not just crocodiles) and need to be treated with caution and respect after all we may be in their back yard. I find it beneficial if you are very observant and approach your surroundings with caution and keep in mind that the unexpected may occur. We need to treat everything with care and respect. I would recommend that if you can while in Port Douglas you should attend the Gardening Club and Nature Walk with our wonderful and knowledgeable guide Paul.”
5. What role do you think Club Wyndham plays in preserving and respecting the natural environment?
“Port Douglas is a mini rain forest and as such has been maintained accordingly. This allows us to experience a lot of the benefits of a rain forest without leaving the resort and is a credit to Port Douglas and Club Wyndham. It’s good to see that many varieties of native plants are nurtured, protected and maintained within the resort.”
6. Do you have any memorable stories of interactions with the wildlife at the resort?
Renato shared some unforgettable moments with wildlife, including two particularly exciting encounters. While snorkeling at the Great Barrier Reef, Renato had the chance to encounter a giant groper. “The size of the groper was similar to a small car,” he recalls, a truly awe-inspiring sight. Another memorable interaction occurred during a 4WD safari when a cassowary appeared just 10 meters away in the thick vegetation. “We waited for about 10 minutes with cameras ready, but just as we thought we were about to get the perfect shot, the cassowary walked right in front of us and disappeared into the vegetation—too quickly for anyone to snap a photo.” These close encounters with wildlife are what make each visit to Port Douglas so special.
7. Are there any specific animals or natural features at Port Douglas that you always look forward to seeing?
“We look forward to seeing the progress of our mascots, Lizzie and Spike, the bearded dragons who now live at the resort in separate containers.” He also looks forward to seeing the Ulysses butterfly, the barramundi, and the eels, particularly one named “Eric.”
Renato Tosello’s passion for wildlife and nature is a testament to the unforgettable experiences that Wyndham Port Douglas offers. From observing the smallest butterflies to capturing stunning moments on camera, every stay brings new opportunities to connect with nature. Whether you’re exploring the resort’s lush grounds or embarking on an adventure in the surrounding wilderness, Wyndham Port Douglas promises an unparalleled wildlife experience.
