In this episode, we speak with Lorna Hay, a Western Australia–based superhost, business owner, and operator of multiple successful Airbnb properties across Perth, Darwin, and the Kimberley. Lorna shares how her hosting journey began when her son moved to boarding school and how it grew into a thriving, lifestyle-driven business supported by her trade services company.

Alongside Ray and Silvia, Lorna discusses remote hosting, managing cleaners, family-friendly stays, preparing homes for extreme climates, and how her background in plumbing and trades gives her a unique advantage in short-term rental management.

• Silvia’s experience with poor hosting practices in Italy and why first impressions matter
• Lorna’s transition from family needs to building a short-term rental portfolio
• How she manages Airbnb properties remotely from a remote region of Australia
• The importance of strong cleaner and co-host relationships
• Managing humidity, mold, and tropical climate challenges in Darwin
• How Airbnb provides creative fulfillment beyond traditional business
• How her plumbing business, IBAC Plumbing & Trade Services, supports her hosting
• Advice for hosts wanting to operate in the Northern Territory

• Darwin Property: airbnb.com.au/h/careycove
• IBAC Plumbing & Trade Services: www.ibacplumbingandtradeservices.com.au
• Travel Blog & Booking Info: www.deadsettravel.com.au
• Instagram: @deadsettravel

• Follow us: @superhosts_down_under
• Ray’s South Yarra Property: Airbnb link
• Silvia’s Property: Airbnb link
• North Melbourne Property: Airbnb link

Hosted by Ray Yee and Silvia, Superhosts Down Under features real stories and practical insights from Australia’s top short-term rental operators. Each episode shares lessons, experiences, and strategies to help hosts deliver exceptional stays and build successful hosting businesses.

In this episode, we speak with Lorna Hay, a Western Australia–based superhost, business owner, and operator of multiple successful Airbnb properties across Perth, Darwin, and the Kimberley. Lorna shares how her hosting journey began when her son moved to boarding school and how it grew into a thriving, lifestyle-driven business supported by her trade services company.

Alongside Ray and Silvia, Lorna discusses remote hosting, managing cleaners, family-friendly stays, preparing homes for extreme climates, and how her background in plumbing and trades gives her a unique advantage in short-term rental management.

• Silvia’s experience with poor hosting practices in Italy and why first impressions matter
• Lorna’s transition from family needs to building a short-term rental portfolio
• How she manages Airbnb properties remotely from a remote region of Australia
• The importance of strong cleaner and co-host relationships
• Managing humidity, mold, and tropical climate challenges in Darwin
• How Airbnb provides creative fulfillment beyond traditional business
• How her plumbing business, IBAC Plumbing & Trade Services, supports her hosting
• Advice for hosts wanting to operate in the Northern Territory

• Darwin Property: airbnb.com.au/h/careycove
• IBAC Plumbing & Trade Services: www.ibacplumbingandtradeservices.com.au
• Travel Blog & Booking Info: www.deadsettravel.com.au
• Instagram: @deadsettravel

• Follow us: @superhosts_down_under
• Ray’s South Yarra Property: Airbnb link
• Silvia’s Property: Airbnb link
• North Melbourne Property: Airbnb link

Hosted by Ray Yee and Silvia, Superhosts Down Under features real stories and practical insights from Australia’s top short-term rental operators. Each episode shares lessons, experiences, and strategies to help hosts deliver exceptional stays and build successful hosting businesses.

Episode Description

In this episode of Superhosts Down Under, Ray and Silvia chat with Esther, founder of Nelly Woods Collective Stays, about her journey from corporate tech to hosting three design-led “slow stays” across Australia — including Into the Woods and Nelly in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, and her newest retreat Tiers Rest in Tasmania.

The conversation opens with a lively discussion on the dangers of leaving keys in letterboxes, after Silvia shares a costly cautionary tale that every host should hear. From there, Esther walks through how she built a thriving boutique brand grounded in sustainability, calm design, and genuine connection — all while scaling interstate.

Key Takeaways

• Why security and convenience can co-exist when done right
• The pros and cons of lockboxes, smart locks, and in-person check-ins
• How to build a brand that feels human and intentional
• The role of design storytelling and photography in earning press coverage
• How Esther moved from Airbnb to direct bookings and now gets 40%+ of stays through her website
• The “slow stay” philosophy and how authenticity shapes every detail — from scent and sound to handwritten notes
• Tips for hosts who want to get featured in magazines and build trust off-platform

Whether you’re managing your first property or growing a boutique collection, this episode is packed with insight on creating beautiful, intentional spaces that guests remember.

Links

• Nelly Woods Collective Stays: https://www.nellywoodscollectivestays.com
• Instagram: @nelly_woods_collective_stays
• Follow us: @superhosts_down_under
• Ray’s South Yarra Property: Airbnb link
• Silvia’s Property: Airbnb link
• North Melbourne Property: Airbnb link

In this episode of Superhosts Down Under, Ray and Silvia chat with Karen, host of Rosehaven on Rosebud—a charming 1950s European-style cottage on the Mornington Peninsula. Karen shares how a first-guest backyard party taught her to vet bookings and set clear rules; why final walk-throughs, sustainable cleaning hacks (bicarb, lemon, ultra-fine steel wool), and thoughtful touches help maintain a perfect 5-star record across 24 reviews; and her plans to add Pilates, personal training, and candle-making as experiences for guests. Whether you manage one cottage or multiple listings, you’ll pick up practical systems for fast turnovers, smart supply management, and exceeding guest expectations. [oai_citation:0‡raymond-yees-studio_silvia-karen-ray-oct-15-2025-001.txt](file-service://file-JaBcJKYfMqFBZPEALjvM9G)

• Rosehaven on Rosebud: https://rosehavenonrosebud.godaddysites.com/
• Airbnb Listing: Rosehaven on Rosebud
• Instagram: @rosehaven_on_rosebud
• Follow us: @superhosts_down_under
• Ray’s South Yarra Property: Airbnb link
• Silvia’s Property: Airbnb link
• North Melbourne Property: Airbnb link

In this episode of Superhosts Down Under, Ray and Silvia sit down with Kim Steele, founder of Seabrook Stays, to explore her 16-year journey in short-term rentals—from one coastal cottage to managing 60+ properties across Australia and the United States, all while keeping a hands-on, family-run approach.

The conversation opens with a jaw-dropping guest story involving a homeless intruder, a loft bedroom, and an unlocked door—a cautionary tale about smart locks, clear house rules, and proactive safety. Kim then shares how she transformed underperforming listings with better photography, marketing, and dynamic pricing; scaled operations with systems and a reliable team; expanded to the U.S. during COVID; and later refocused on a curated mix of owned and rental-arbitrage properties.

• Pre-Airbnb origins: agents, Stays.com.au, and DIY hospitality
• What actually moves the needle: photos, pricing, and messaging
• Scaling without losing quality: team, tech, and playbooks
• Risk and prevention: ID verification, access control, and guest screening
• Actionable advice for new and growing hosts

Whether you’re managing one home or many, you’ll find practical insights, cautionary tales, and inspiration to build a sustainable hosting business.

Links
Seabrook Stays: seabrookstays.com.au
Follow us on Instagram: @superhosts_down_under
Ray’s South Yarra Property: Airbnb link
Silvia’s Property: Airbnb link
North Melbourne Property: Airbnb link

In this special episode of Airbnb Superhosts Down Under, hosts Ray Yee and Silvia turn the spotlight on Ray’s own South Yarra property. For the first time, listeners get a deep dive into the design philosophy, guest experience, and lessons learned from running one of Melbourne’s most thoughtfully curated Airbnb studios.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• ​Behind the design: How Scandinavian minimalism and cozy textures inspired “Sweet Scandinavia,” Ray’s Airbnb apartment in South Yarra.
• ​Guest stories & challenges: Handling demanding guests during Melbourne’s F1, the importance of towel delivery photos, and lessons from guest communication.
• ​Studio vs. one-bedroom: Why Melbourne building regulations and “borrowed light” mean some apartments blur the line.
• ​The extras that matter: Lap pool, sauna, gym, rooftop terrace, custom workspace, and lighting design that shapes guest mood.
• ​Airbnb vs. hotels: Why guests increasingly choose well-designed Airbnbs over hotels for longer stays.
• ​Superhost advice: Ray’s hard-earned tips—keep it simple, focus on comfort, consider linen services, and use reliable key exchange systems.

Why It Matters

Whether you’re a new host, an experienced Superhost, or an investor curious about short-term rentals, this episode gives you actionable insights into:

• ​Maximizing small spaces through design and storage.
• ​Balancing lifestyle with hosting by using co-hosts and services.
• ​Building repeat bookings through thoughtful guest experiences.

Links & Resources

• ​Follow us on Instagram: @superhosts_down_under
• ​Ray’s South Yarra Property – View on Airbnb
• ​Silvia’s Property – View on Airbnb
• ​North Melbourne Property – View on Airbnb

Keywords for Discoverability

Airbnb hosting tips, Melbourne Superhosts, Scandinavian design Airbnb, South Yarra Airbnb, Airbnb vs hotels Melbourne, Airbnb host challenges, short-term rental tips Australia, cozy Airbnb design, Airbnb guest communication, Airbnb studio apartment Melbourne.

In this episode of "Superhost Down Under," we welcome Fei, the owner of Hazel Beach House, to share her journey from being an avid Airbnb guest to a successful host. Join us as we delve into the challenges and joys of managing a coastal property, the importance of community connections, and the art of creating a memorable guest experience. Whether you're a seasoned host or just starting out, Fei insights and stories offer valuable lessons on navigating the world of Airbnb. Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with practical tips and heartfelt moments.

Fei’s Property

https://www.airbnb.com/l/B77AJ7aE

@hazelbythesea

Connect with Us:

Follow us on Instagram: @superhostdownunder

Links to Ray and Silvia’s Properties:

Ray’s South Yarra Property – ⁠https://www.airbnb.com/slink/I2cCaaW5⁠

Silvia’s Property – ⁠https://www.airbnb.com/slink/Kpse4K4X⁠

North Melbourne Property – ⁠https://www.airbnb.com/l/KGfcunu3

In this episode of Superhost Down Under, we welcome Kim, a seasoned property management expert, to share her insights on managing Airbnb properties. From setting clear boundaries with guests to styling holiday homes, Kim offers invaluable advice for both new and experienced hosts. Tune in to learn how to navigate the challenges of property management and enhance your hosting experience.

Key Topics:

The importance of setting boundaries with guests Tips for styling and managing holiday homes Challenges in property management and how to overcome them The role of communication in successful hosting

Guest Information: Kim is a property management expert with over a decade of experience. She runs Central Coast Beach Breaks, a boutique property management company. Learn more about her services at Central Coast Beach Breaks and follow her on

Instagram @central_coast_beach_breaks

https://centralcoastbeachbreaks.com.au

Connect with Us:

Follow us on Instagram: @https://www.instagram.com/superhosts_down_under/

Links to Ray and Silvia’s Properties:Ray’s South Yarra Property – ⁠https://www.airbnb.com/slink/I2cCaaW5⁠ Silvia’s Property – ⁠https://www.airbnb.com/slink/Kpse4K4X⁠North Melbourne Property – ⁠https://www.airbnb.com/l/KGfcunu3

Hashtags: #Airbnb #PropertyManagement #Superhost #CentralCoastBeachBreaks

In this episode of Superhosts Down Under, we sit down with Kath and Philippe, hosts of a peaceful, art-filled retreat nestled in the foothills of Queensland’s picturesque Granite Belt.

Originally from France, Philippe brings his passion for art and antique restoration, while Kath shares her love of gardening, sustainability, and thoughtful hosting. Together, they’ve created a welcoming space that blends nature, culture, and comfort—offering guests a restorative escape from the city.

They share their journey of moving from the city to the countryside, their approach to hosting longer stays, and how they navigate everything from shared spaces to choosing the right guests. This episode is rich with heart, humour, and practical insights into what it means to host with intention.

Links to Ray and Silvia’s Properties:Ray’s South Yarra Property – ⁠https://www.airbnb.com/slink/I2cCaaW5

⁠Silvia’s Property – ⁠https://www.airbnb.com/slink/Kpse4K4X⁠

North Melbourne Property – ⁠https://www.airbnb.com/l/KGfcunu3

In this episode of Superhosts Down Under, we speak with Marg, a superhost based in Mount Barker, South Australia. Marg is a vibrant artist, retired mediator, and theatre performer who welcomes guests into her quirky, history-filled home—Fettlers Cottage.

Marg shares her unique approach to live-in hosting, how she manages two Airbnb rooms with one shared bathroom, and why transparency, empathy, and human connection are key to her hosting style. We also hear stories of traveling guests, sharing spaces, and how Airbnb has brought friendship and creative energy into her life.

Whether you’re a live-in host or thinking of listing your cottage-style home, this episode is packed with reflections, practical tips, and heartwarming stories that will inspire you to open your doors with confidence and creativity.

Links to Ray and Silvia’s Properties:Ray’s South Yarra Property – ⁠https://www.airbnb.com/slink/I2cCaaW5⁠

Silvia’s Property – ⁠https://www.airbnb.com/slink/Kpse4K4X⁠

North Melbourne Property – ⁠https://www.airbnb.com/l/KGfcunu3