Australian resort Rumi on Louth put up for sale: owner admits unpaid superannuation contributions
The Rumi on Louth eco-resort on Louth Island in South Australia has been put up for sale. Che Metcalf, co-owner and director of the operating company, admitted that some superannuation contributions for former employees remain unpaid. According to him, the company plans to resolve the matter through refinancing or the sale of the island.
As ABC News Australia reports, the resort opened in 2023. It is located about a 10-minute boat ride from Port Lincoln and offers accommodation, a restaurant and outdoor recreation. In May, the venue temporarily suspended operations while the company sought financing for the second stage of development.
Co-owner’s statement
The resort is operated by Ika Shima Pty Ltd, which trades under the Rumi on Louth brand. Metcalf said that during the suspension of operations, employees were paid wages, compensation for unused leave and other termination-related payments.
At the same time, he confirmed that some superannuation contributions remain unpaid. Metcalf said the company takes the matter seriously and intends to resolve it as part of refinancing or a sale. According to him, putting the island up for sale does not change plans to resume the resort’s operations and expand it.
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Employees and vouchers
Former resort employee Scott Houston told ABC that he was owed “several thousand” dollars in superannuation contributions. He was working on a visa and, after his sudden dismissal, is looking for another sponsor to remain in Australia.
Questions have also arisen among holders of gift vouchers. Susan Thompson and her mother, Margaret Harvey, bought a voucher for a family trip, but after the resort closed they did not know whether they would be able to use it. According to Harvey, the company initially said a refund might be possible, but later extended the voucher’s validity period.
Metcalf said that all valid Rumi vouchers had been extended by 12 months. He added that the company intends to meet its obligations after operations resume and, if it is unable to do so, refund customers. The vessels used to transport guests to the island, he said, have not been sold and remain part of the business.
