Southern Ocean Lodge
People & Purpose
Southern Ocean Lodge operates under a detailed and evolving sustainable management policy, which steers operations and uses the best available technology to reduce energy consumption and waste and to minimise environmental impact, ultimately enhancing the guests’ experience of the destination. View case study
“Given our learnings from the fires, our plans for a ‘Southern Ocean Lodge 2.0’ included a strong focus on the property’s operational sustainability and consideration for the environment in which the lodge stands.”
Founder, James Baillie
One hectare of land was cleared in the construction of Southern Ocean Lodge, or approximately 1% of the total 102 hectares of private land purchased by Baillie Lodges.
The remaining 99% of the property is protected to guarantee its pristine state for future generations. Southern Ocean Lodge engages naturalist guides to provide expert interpretive experiences for guests, building awareness of the natural environment as well as cultural understanding, encouraging a greater sensitivity for broader ecological issues.
Prior to the construction of Southern Ocean Lodge, management undertook extensive flora and fauna surveys, which identified that the rare and magnificent osprey and vulnerable hooded plover bird species were found near the site. Environmental management plans were subsequently put in place, including buffer zones and strict access controls; guest awareness programs; signage and ongoing monitoring of sites. A 20-metre wilderness buffer is maintained around the lodge and has been planted with fire-retardant native succulents and Kangaroo Island’s own endemic juniper.
“During the rebuild, it’s been wonderful to re-establish our working relationships with the talented producers and the passionate tour operators who have been such an integral part of the unique Southern Ocean Lodge experience.”
Founder, James Baillie
Southern Ocean Lodge prides itself on partnering with like-minded businesses to foster a thriving, sustainable community on Kangaroo Island.
These partnerships support growers, makers and artisans and enable small, family-owned businesses to viably produce the finest goods and offer services locally. Frequently these businesses share the lodge ethos around sustainable and regenerative practices. It is lodge policy to buy local wherever possible, minimising food miles and the emissions footprint of long-distance freight, and ensuring economic benefits permeate the surrounding region.
Once again, Southern Ocean Lodge is showcasing contemporary Australian design, custom furnishings and locally-commissioned artworks, drawing on the strong connections – forged over a decade ago – with South Australia’s leading designers.
Subtle architectural changes provide each suite with even better views of the ocean and coastal wilderness. At the same time, the design makes the most of aspect and weather patterns to encourage flow-through ventilation, and strategic glazing captures sunlight and helps store natural heat. Advances in building materials and energy-efficient technology – such as LED lighting, double insulated glass and wall insulation – will see a 25% reduction in energy use over the original lodge.
SOUTHERN OCEAN LODGE CONSERVATION ACTIVITIES
OUR LITTLE WHITE BOOK
The Luxury Lodges of Australia brochure has become a treasured and widely recognisable ‘go to’ for Australian experiential luxury, enjoyed both online and in printed form at our lodges. The brochure is available to view or download in eight languages below.