They are inheriting an impressive legacy; running continuously since 1989, the shop is the oldest uninterrupted business in Port Douglas.

While Rod and Ange weren't the original founders, they were the third owners to look after it, the changeover means Tania and Miguel are stepping in as only the fourth owners in the business's 37-year history.

For Rod and Ange, who originally planned on a five-year stint, the transition came at the perfect time.

“We’d been saying we should retire for a long time,” Ange said. “In February I told Miguel and Tania, ‘You should really come and do this. It’s an amazing lifestyle.’”

The idea struck a chord immediately. By March, the decision was finalised, forcing a fast-tracked relocation so the family could take over before the winter peak season wound down.

For Miguel and Tania, the motivation to completely uproot their lives boiled down to family, passion, and a slower pace.

“The first reason was giving our two girls a different experience,” Miguel explained. “They've just started school, and we wanted to show them that you can be entrepreneurial, and that life isn't just about studying to get a job in a big company.”

Tania agreed, noting her corporate job took too much time away from her daughters. “Moving up here was about a lifestyle change and spending more time with them,” she said.

Passion meets business

An avid mountain biker, Miguel is thrilled to align his daily work with his personal passion.

“I switched my high-end bikes in Sydney for 400 hire bikes here,” Miguel laughed. “I love the mechanical side and getting my hands dirty.”

While their immediate focus is maintaining the high standards set by Rod and Ange, Miguel is already looking to streamline operations like the digital booking systems.

Looking ahead, the future is bright; upcoming major infrastructure projects, including the Wangetti Trail and a proposed rail trail to Mossman, offer massive opportunities for the shop to expand into overnight eco-tourism and e-bike tours.