Caring for the Granite Belt, One Stay at a Time
At 31 The Rocks, we believe that enjoying nature comes with a responsibility to protect it. Nestled amongst 15 acres of native bushland and iconic granite outcrops, our accommodation has been thoughtfully designed to allow guests to experience the beauty of the Granite Belt while minimising our impact on the environment.
Every decision we make, whether it’s conserving water, reducing waste or supporting local businesses is guided by our commitment to preserving this special place for future generations.
Sustainability is an ongoing journey, and we’re continually looking for new ways to improve.
Protecting Our Natural Environment
The natural landscape is what makes 31 The Rocks so unique.
Our property is home to native bushland, granite escarpments and a diverse range of wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas and many native bird species. Seasonal wildflowers such as the beautiful native boronia and purple bearded orchid also flourish across the property.
To help protect these natural values we:
- Preserve native vegetation and wildlife habitat across our 15-acre property.
- Encourage guests to stay on designated walking tracks.
- Avoid unnecessary clearing of native bushland.
- Undertake regular weed management and habitat maintenance.
- Carry out responsible fuel-load management to reduce bushfire risk while protecting biodiversity.
- Promote respectful wildlife observation and discourage feeding or disturbing native animals.
Reducing Our Environmental Footprint
We recognise that every business has an environmental impact, which is why we actively measure and work to reduce ours.
31 The Rocks participates in the Tourism Emissions Reduction Commitment, with greenhouse gas emissions independently measured through CarbonHalo.
Current initiatives include:
- Solar electricity generation.
- Solar hot water for the manager’s residence.
- LED lighting throughout the property.
- Energy-efficient appliances.
- Ongoing monitoring of electricity consumption.
- Continuous assessment of opportunities to further increase renewable energy.
Enjoy the Sounds of Nature
One of the things our guests value most is the peace and tranquillity of 31 The Rocks. Surrounded by native bushland and wildlife, we ask all guests to help preserve this unique environment by keeping noise to a respectful level, particularly during the evening and early morning.
By enjoying the natural sounds of birdsong, rustling leaves and the quiet beauty of the Granite Belt, you’ll not only enhance your own experience but also help protect local wildlife and ensure every guest can fully relax and reconnect with nature.
Conserving Water
Water is one of Australia’s most precious resources.
To reduce our water consumption we:
- Collect rainwater for gardens and non-guest facilities.
- Maintain six rainwater tanks with a combined capacity of approximately 90,000 litres.
- Operate a greywater irrigation system for landscaped areas.
- Use water-efficient fixtures throughout the property.
- Encourage guests to conserve water during their stay.
Reducing Waste
Reducing waste is a key part of our environmental commitment.
Our waste reduction initiatives include:
- Recycling facilities in every villa.
- Food waste composting.
- Participation in the Queensland Containers for Change program returning more than 1,000 eligible containers each year and proceeds going to purchase native plants.
- Bulk purchasing where practical to reduce packaging.
- Refillable guest amenities.
- Responsible recycling of electronic waste and other materials where possible.
- Industry Partnership with Australian Bedding Stewardship Council to identify opportunities for mattress recycling.
Supporting Our Local Community
Sustainability extends beyond the environment—it also means supporting the people and businesses that make the Granite Belt such a special destination.
Whenever possible, we choose to purchase locally and encourage our guests to discover the region’s outstanding food, wine, arts and experiences.
We also encourage guests to make thoughtful purchasing decisions by supporting local artisans and producers and avoiding products made from rare, threatened or protected wildlife and plant species. Choosing authentic, sustainably produced local goods helps protect biodiversity while supporting the Granite Belt community.
We proudly support local businesses by:
- Recommending local wineries, cafés and restaurants.
- Promoting local festivals and community events.
- Partnering with local artists to display original artwork throughout our villas and guest lounge.
- Purchasing from local suppliers and trades wherever practical.
- Using locally sourced native plants for landscaping where available.
We are also active members of:
- Granite Belt Wine & Tourism
- Granite Belt Sustainable Action Network
Through these organisations we collaborate with other tourism operators to help strengthen the sustainability and long-term success of the Granite Belt.
Sharing Knowledge
We believe education plays an important role in conservation.
Guests are encouraged to learn more about the Granite Belt’s unique environment through our guest compendium, walking tracks and property information. These resources highlight:
- Native wildlife and flora.
- Responsible wildlife observation.
- Biodiversity conservation.
- Sustainable travel practices.
- Local environmental values.
- Ways guests can minimise their environmental footprint during their stay.
We also enjoy working with local environmental groups, including welcoming the Stanthorpe Wildflower Consortium for annual visits to the property.
Our Commitment to Continuous Improvement
Sustainability is an ongoing journey, not a destination.
Each year we review our environmental performance and identify new opportunities to reduce our impact while enhancing the guest experience.
Future initiatives include:
- Further reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
- Increasing renewable energy generation.
- Expanding waste reduction initiatives.
- Continuing to support local producers and suppliers.
- Enhancing biodiversity conservation across the property.
Every stay at 31 The Rocks contributes to these ongoing improvements.
Thank You
Thank you for helping us care for this remarkable place.
By choosing to stay at 31 The Rocks and embracing simple, thoughtful actions during your visit, you’re helping protect the natural beauty, wildlife and community that make the Granite Belt such an extraordinary destination.
Together, we can ensure this special place continues to be enjoyed for generations to come.