G’day Group has strengthened its leadership capability at its iconic Kimberley destination, El Questro, with the appointment of respected luxury hospitality leader Ross Boobyer as General Manager of the property, alongside Russell Gorton-McDougall as Lodge Manager of El Questro Homestead.
These appointments reinforce G’day Group’s continued investment in delivering premium, experience-led stays in one of Australia’s most iconic wilderness destinations, providing confidence to trade partners in the calibre of on-ground leadership and guest delivery. Ross joins the business from Tasmania where he most recently served as General Manager of MACq 01 Hotel and The Henry Jones Art Hotel. Across his career, he has held senior leadership roles at several of Australia’s most highly regarded luxury and wilderness properties, including Saffire Freycinet and Lizard Island Resort, both members of Luxury Lodges of Australia, as well as Eco Beach Wilderness Retreat. Importantly, Ross brings both operational depth and a genuine connection to El Questro, having previously lived and worked at the property earlier in his career.
G’day Group Founder and Chief Executive Officer Grant Wilckens said Ross’ experience in luxury lodge operations and remote hospitality environments made him a strong appointment to lead the next chapter of El Questro. “Ross brings deep experience across premium lodge environments and a genuine understanding of what makes El Questro such a remarkable destination,” Mr Wilckens said. Together with the appointment of Russell at El Questro Homestead, the business is reinforcing a leadership structure focused on consistency of delivery, attention to detail and the continued elevation of the guest experience.
Russell joins El Questro Homestead with a strong foundation across internationally recognised luxury and boutique properties, including Grantley Hall, Cowley Manor, Ellenborough Park and The Ritz London. He brings a natural strength in elevating guest experiences through thoughtful service, attention to detail and a genuine understanding of premium traveller expectations. His approach is centred on delivering seamless, highly personalised stays that reflect the unique sense of place and luxury that defines El Questro Homestead. His international experience further supports a considered and progressive approach to the continued evolution of the Homestead experience.
Spanning more than 700,000 hectares of Kimberley landscape, El Questro combines wilderness adventure with refined hospitality across a range of accommodation experiences including El Questro Homestead, Emma Gorge and The Station. Ross commenced in his role in March 2026 and has relocated to the Kimberley with his family. Russell joins the Homestead leadership team in April for the commencement of the 2026 season.
For more details, view the lodge website or contact the lodge directly below.