Leading With Purpose With Dawn Romanella, General Manager of Coral Sea Resort

Running a resort isn’t just about luxury; it’s about the people who make it unforgettable. At Coral Sea Resort, General Manager Dawn Romanella creates a thriving workplace culture and drives sustainable initiatives, ensuring both staff and guests have exceptional experiences.
In an industry known for high turnover, Dawn focuses on employee satisfaction, knowing that a happy team leads to outstanding guest experiences.
"People are the heart of this business. If our team isn’t happy, that energy filters through to the guest experience. We’ve put a real focus on making Coral Sea Resort a great place to work.”
Having worked her way up through various hospitality roles, Dawn’s hands-on experience has shaped her leadership style.
"I’ve been in their shoes! I know what it’s like to be on the floor during a packed-out service or to manage behind the scenes. That experience helps me connect with the team and understand what they need to succeed. Leadership isn’t about just calling the shots—it’s about lifting people up and helping them grow.”
Sustainability is a core value at Coral Sea Resort, with the team constantly seeking ways to reduce their environmental impact. From minimising waste and using eco-friendly products to implementing energy-efficient practices, they are committed to responsible operations.
“We introduced a pool towel token system to cut down on unnecessary washing, and we’re sourcing more local ingredients for our restaurant. Little things add up, and we want to make sure guests can enjoy their stay knowing we’re doing our part."
While focusing on sustainability, the resort still maintains luxury.
"Sustainability and luxury can absolutely go hand in hand. People don’t want to sacrifice comfort, but they do appreciate thoughtful choices—like using locally made, high-quality products rather than mass-produced ones. We focus on making smart changes that feel natural, not forced."
Dawn says what sets Coral Sea Resort apart is the guest experience, stunning views and fantastic staff members.
“It’s the warm, personal service that keeps people coming back. We don’t want guests to just ‘stay’ here—we want them to feel connected, relaxed, and genuinely taken care of."
What’s one item that’s always in your handbag?
Lipstick, always! It’s surprisingly versatile—great for a quick touch-up, a pop of colour, or in desperate times, even a makeshift blush.
Do you follow any inspirational women online?
“I listen to a mix of podcasts—some insightful, some purely for entertainment. I love Chelsea Handler and Alex Cooper for their boldness and humour, and when I need something more thought-provoking, Mel Robbins always has great advice on resilience and mindset.”
Have you had any wonderful women role models in your life, like a mentor, who helped you achieve success?

“I’ve been lucky to have strong women around me at every stage of life. There has always been someone I could lean on—whether it was a mentor who challenged me, a colleague who had my back, or my family, who have been my greatest source of strength (and unsolicited advice). Their influence has shaped how I lead, problem-solve, and navigate challenges. I truly believe success isn’t just about personal achievements but about the people who support, challenge, and inspire you along the way.”

Coralsearesort.com

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