HEPBURN SPA™ SIGNS 'SISTER SPA' AGREEMENT WITH BATH SPA UK

In a first for an Australian Spa, Hepburn Spa has signed a 'sister spa' agreement with THERMAE BATH SPA, located in Bath United Kingdom. The world renowned Thermae Bath Spa has recently undergone a £40 million pound renovation which took ten years from conception to completion. Popularised by the Romans 3000 years ago, Bath features natural mineral waters and is regarded as one of the key birthplaces of global Spa culture.

The sister spa partnership became obvious because Thermae Bath Spa and Hepburn Spa share many similarities such as iconic status, natural mineral waters and both play a leading role in their respective countries Spa history.

As the founder of Australian spa culture, Hepburn Spa is proud of its association with Thermae Bath Spa. The association with Bath Spa will foster greater global awareness of Hepburn Spa and the Australian Spa industry as well as planned staff exchanges and joint promotional activities and professional development.

The partnership allowed Hepburn Spa access to the latest technology and innovations included at Bath Spa that will be incorporated into the new building such as innovative private changing suites and modern filtration systems.

HEPBURN SPA AWARDED BEST VICTORIAN SPA 2005 BY LUXURY TRAVEL MAGAZINE

Readers of consumer magazine, Luxury Travel, have voted Hepburn Spa best Victorian Spa for 2005.

HEPBURN SPA JOINS INTERNATIONAL SPA ASSOCIATION (ISPA)- USA

Hepburn Spa has joined the ranks of some of the greatest Spa's in the world through membership of the prestigious International Spa Association (ISPA), which is based in the United States. ISPA membership means Hepburn Spa has access to the latest treatment innovations and trends as well as a greater global profile within the Spa industry.

HEPBURN SPA RECEIVES PRESTIGIOUS CIDESCO ACCREDITATION

The world's most prestigious Beauty/Spa Therapy organisation, CIDESCO, has approved Hepburn Spa's registration as an accredited Beauty/Spa Therapy centre.

Founded in Switzerland in 1947, CIDESCO is a non profit accreditation/examining body that conducts global examinations for Beauty/Spa Therapists and inspections for Spa's and Salons worldwide.

Only Spa's that maintain the highest standards of professionalism, hygiene and safety standards are accepted by CIDESCO as an accreditated Beauty/Spa Centre and must first pass a rigorous inspection by a CIDESCO examiner.

HEPBURN SPA ESTABLISHES COMMUNITY ADVISORY COMMITTEE (CAC)

A Community Advisory Committee has been established to provide a forum for feedback, advice and consultation between Hepburn Spa and the local community.

The CAC members include local tourism operators, employees, consumers, a trade union representative and is Chaired by local businesswomen, Jenny Beacham. The CAC will provide advice and consultation to Hepburn Spa Management on a range of subjects including tourism, business, operational, marketing and promotional matters as well as providing a voice for local community members to have a say about Hepburn Spa operations.

As one of the largest employers in the region, Hepburn Spa generates about $20 million annually for the local tourism economy. Many local hotel, B&B's, motels, restaurants, cafes and tourism businesses rely on Hepburn Spa visitation.

The CAC will help create closer links and opportunities with these businesses and encourage the local community to get involved.

1/2 PRICE LOCALS SPECIAL EVERY WEDNESDAY - HERE TO STAY

Following overwhelming feedback from the Community Advisory Committee and Locals, Hepburn Spa has introduced 1/2 price local specials available every Wednesday.

Simply obtain a coupon from the front page of the Advocate to access these weekly specials.

HEPBURN SPA OPENS NEW RECEPTION

Our new reception is located opposite the entrance to the Mineral Springs Reserve on the corner of Mineral Springs Crescent & Golden Springs Avenue, Hepburn Springs. Look for the big yellow house / white pathway as you approach the car park.

Please note, pool and sauna are not currently available. All other treatments remain as usual.

GETAWAY'S CATRIONA ROWNTREE CHOOSES HEPBURN SPA AS FAVOURITE

Hepburn Spa has been chosen as one of Catriona Rowntree's favourite Australian destinations in her new book, "Catriona's Australia". The coffee table guide to the best Australian destinations is available from all leading boookstores.

HEPBURN SPA AGAIN MAJOR SPONSOR OF THE SWISS ITALIAN FESTA

Mark your diaries for next years cultural journey into the rich history of the Swiss Italian community that inspired the establishment of Spa culture in our region. The Festa is held in mid April 2008 and features a diverse range of activities including a Bocce Tournament, Heritage Walk, Community Feast and of course extensive food and wine offerings. Check out the website for further details www.swissitalianfesta.com

HEPBURN SPA SPONSORS CHILL OUT FESTIVAL 2008

Hepburn Spa is proud to sponsor the 2008 ChillOut Festival. After a well-earned break in 2007, ChillOut returns over the upcoming Labour Day long weekend, 7-10 March 2008. The largest gay and lesbian festival in regional and rural Australia - ChillOut is a Festival like no other in the world. See the official website for further details. www.chilloutfestival.com.au

HEPBURN SPA TO EXPAND HEPBURN SPRINGS FACILITIES

Hepburn Spa confirms it's commitment to regional Victoria, announcing it's intention to upgrade its wellness retreat facilities and expand it's product offerings in and around the region. The Spa is considering a number of exciting regional opportunities with further announcements to follow shortly.