Dr Jerry Schwartz became the official owner of Paradise Resort on 29 February 2020 and upon purchasing the resort said it was important for Paradise Resort to have a renewed vision, as premium family resorts in such prime locations were very rare.
“Paradise Resort has accommodated families from all over Australia and overseas for four decades, providing one of the most enjoyable holiday experiences imaginable,” - Dr Schwartz, who has three young children himself.
Learn more about the Schwartz Family Company
For over 15 years, Paradise Resort has been led by David Brook, who's bold “cruise ship on land” vision has helped shape the resort into one of Australia’s leading family holiday destinations. Affectionately known as “Willy Wonka” for his creativity, David continues to bring fresh ideas that elevate the guest experience.
Employing more than 285 people from 27 countries, the team brings together a rich mix of cultures, perspectives, and ideas. From young starters to experienced professionals, the culture at Paradise Resort fosters a dynamic and inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive.
And with more than 36 staff members dedicating over 10 years of service and two reaching the incredible milestone of 30 years of service, longevity and loyalty is something we are incredibly proud of. Their passion, knowledge, and mentorship continue to shape the Paradise experience for both our guests and future team members.
Voted Australia's Best Family Resort 15 years in a row, Paradise Resort Gold Coast is currently Australia's only resort with a giant Waterpark, Ice-Skating Rink, Kids Club, Daily Activities, Miniature Train and loads more all under one roof.
QLD Hotels Association Awards for Excellence
Winners announced 1 June 2026
QLD Hotels Association Awards for Excellence
Winners announced 1 June 2026
Mews Unfold Awards
Winners announced May 2026
Out and About with Kids
2010 - 2025
Holidays with Kids
2010 - 2025
Australian Traveller - Readers Choice
November 2025
Gold Coast Business Excellence Awards
2025
Gold Coast Business Excellence Awards
2021 + 2025
Gold Coast Business Excellence Awards
2025
Gold Coast Business Excellence Awards
August 2021 + October 2025
Australian Tourism Awards
March 2022
Queensland Tourism Awards
November 2021
QLD Restaurant and Catering Awards
2021
QLD Restaurant and Catering Awards
2021
The resort originally opened as Ocean Blue in November 1981 with 409 rooms and featured an onsite bakery, hairdressing salon and nightclub. It was popular for sporting groups, families and romantic getaways and regularly featured as the major prize given to contestants on the popular 80's Television series 'The Perfect Match' hosted by Cameron Daddo.
In the late 90s Hotel Management chain, Accor signed a 10-year management agreement where it was known as the 'Mercure Resort' and commenced its transition to a family resort installing the first Gecko Kids Club in Australia under the Accor brand.
The resort was purchased by Melbourne family, the Zagame’s who invested $6million over the following 5 years into a refurbishment of the waterpark, outdoor pool area, guest rooms and several facilities including the installation of Australia’s first hotel based ice-skating rink under the leadership of General Manager David Brook.
By 2015 the resort was earmarked for demolition in a sale to the Ralan Group which aspired to build 4 towers on the site, set to be called The Ruby Collection. By July 2019 plans had fallen through and Paradise Resort was again up for sale.
In November 2019, Paradise Resort was given another life after being purchased by Australia's largest private hotel owner DR JERRY SCHWARTZ with a final settlement on 29 February 2020. The resort re-launched with a major charity event, a renewed vision and a $12 million plan to bounce back and retain the title of Australia's favourite family resort.
By March 27 2020, the global pandemic known as COVID-19 saw the resort close its doors for the first time in 40 years. True to his word Dr Schwartz injected over $3 million to commence a much-needed and long overdue makeover and General Manager David Brook engaged the team with an opportunity to be repurposed throughout the resort. Turning a terrible situation into something positive we saw chefs on paintbrushes, housekeepers working in gardens and kids club attendants cleaning out the waterpark all pitching in to re-open with a new vision and inspired team on 1 September 2020.
With Covid restrictions being lifted early in the year and Australian families ready to travel and holiday close to home we added additional attractions with a miniature train, carousel, large central activity screen, new characters, new live shows, and activities.
2023 marked a significant milestone in the ongoing journey as a prominent holiday destination in Australia having been recognised and voted as Australia’s Best Family resort for the 11th year in a row.
March brought an unexpected challenge when Cyclone Alfred hit the Gold Coast, prompting a week-long closure for repairs, power restoration, and managing cancellations. Despite this, the year saw major progress: 48 more Dusty’s rooms were refurbished, including two Accessible Family rooms, and work continued on the adults-only pool, lounge bar, activities hub, and multipurpose arena set to open in early 2026. Enhancements included a new Clip and Climb Adventure Wall and refreshed theming in Cleo’s Castle and Dusty’s Digs, featuring a princess carriage and playful animal figures to create a magical family welcome.
The resort originally opened as Ocean Blue in November 1981 with 409 rooms and featured an onsite bakery, hairdressing salon and nightclub. It was popular for sporting groups, families and romantic getaways and regularly featured as the major prize given to contestants on the popular 80's Television series 'The Perfect Match' hosted by Cameron Daddo.
In the late 90s Hotel Management chain, Accor signed a 10-year management agreement where it was known as the 'Mercure Resort' and commenced its transition to a family resort installing the first Gecko Kids Club in Australia under the Accor brand.
The resort was purchased by Melbourne family, the Zagame’s who invested $6million over the following 5 years into a refurbishment of the waterpark, outdoor pool area, guest rooms and several facilities including the installation of Australia’s first hotel based ice-skating rink under the leadership of General Manager David Brook.
