{
  "id": 14336194,
  "title": "Couple restores 1932 woodcutter cabin into $50K-a-year retreat",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/14/couple-restores-1932-woodcutter-cabin-into-50k-a-year-retreat",
  "topic": "business",
  "section": "Business",
  "published": "2026-10-14T00:34:35.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Times of India",
    "slug": "times-of-india",
    "url": "https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/real-estate/news/a-couple-bought-a-3-04-hectare-australian-estate-for-a1-6-million-and-restored-a-derelict-1932-woodcutters-cabin-the-two-bedroom-retreat-now-earns-up-to-a50000-a-year-as-a-holiday-rental/articleshow/134887369.cms"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "A neglected timber cabin, built in 1932 and located inside a rainforest estate on Queensland’s Gold Coast, has been transformed into a luxurious two-bedroom holiday retreat. The property, situated in Bonogin, is set to be auctioned, attracting attention in the local property market due to its unique blend of contemporary architecture, equestrian facilities, and historic cottage. Marlon Sayer and Romolo Romeo bought the 3.04-hectare estate for A$1.6 million in 2016. The cabin, associated with the early timber-cutting history of the region and linked to timber hauler Frederick Fowler, had fallen into disrepair when the couple purchased it. Instead of demolishing it, the owners decided to restore the building, preserving its original cedar exterior, slate flooring, A-frame roof, and rustic character. The renovation included a new kitchen, bathroom, and improved essential services, as well as the addition of a fireplace with individually painted bricks and a deck for outdoor living. The finished cabin has two loft-style bedrooms, an open-plan living and dining area, and provides a different atmosphere compared to the larger contemporary home on the estate. Operating as a holiday rental, the cabin generates approximately A$45,000 to A$50,000 annually. The property, known as Pegasus, also features a main house with four bedrooms, New Guinea rosewood finishes, a subterranean wine cellar, a swimming pool, an entertaining terrace, and rainforest areas. The owners plan to auction the property on October 30, 2026, with the restored cabin adding value to an estate that combines modern design with local history.",
  "summary": "A once-neglected timber cabin in Bonogin has undergone an inspiring transformation into a charming two-bedroom holiday retreat. Originally constructed in 1932 and steeped in the local timber-cutting heritage, owners Marlon Sayer and Romolo Romeo acquired it in 2016, opting to maintain its historical essence. Now, the property not only generates considerable rental income but also offers a…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}