Alan and Denise Wilkes of Edge of the Forest Motel are celebrating this week after being named the best motel in WA by Star Ratings Australia.
The online aggregator collects millions of reviews from travel websites across the globe to compile the list, including reviews written by non-English speaking travellers.
Ms Wilkes said the ratings were as important as popular benchmark website TripAdvisor due to the inclusiveness of the reviews.
“So many of our visitors do not have access to, or don’t frequently use TripAdvisor, so this award means so much knowing it has come from such an overall view of service in the region,” she said.
The couple have owned and operated the motel since making the move from Perth and count their one-on-one approach to service as the key to their success.
“We spend a good half an hour with each and every guest upon check in, learning what they are seeking on their stay and providing suggestions for tours and dining options.”
In an announcement last week, Star Ratings Australia listed the Margaret River region ahead of both Perth and Broome for accommodation, noting that the South West represents 60% of WA’s national Gold List winners.
Star Ratings Australia spokesperson Clara Lubbers said sophisticated data collection software collated traveller ratings in over 45 languages and aimed to provide a definitive list of top travel services across the country.
A number of businesses between Margaret River and Busselton are celebrating top spots on the list including the Grand Mercure Basildene Manor, RAC Busselton Holiday Park and Sojourn On Gale.
Mr Wilkes said the ratings were a clear indication that the reputation for top quality travel options in the region was growing.
“People of all budgets and travel motivation need to know they can rely on a consistently high standard of service, friendliness and local knowledge,” he said.
“We are very proud to be living in a region that delivers that experience so often to so many people.”
