Terms of Use

By booking your stay with us, you agree to the following terms and conditions. We've kept things simple so you know what to expect.


Holiday Rental Agreement (Terms & Conditions)

Welcome to The Happy Place @ Tinnanbar, our home away from home — and we want it to be yours too! This agreement ensures that you, your guests, and future visitors enjoy a safe, relaxing, and memorable stay. The “Owner,” “we,” “us,” or “our” refers to the property owners. “You” and “your” refer to the person making the booking and all guests staying at the property. Please read carefully — these Terms and Conditions form the basis of your agreement with us. Your statutory rights under Australian law are unaffected.


1. Booking Confirmation & Payment

  • Bookings are made online through our website
  • To confirm your booking a deposit must be made within 48hrs of the booking.
  • If the deposit is not received within 48hrs, the booking will be automatically cancelled and the dates released.
  • Final payment is due 7 days before arrival. Bookings made less than 1 week before arrival require full payment upfront.
  • Booking and payment details are securely stored in Smoobu (for reservations) and in our bank software (for payments)
  • We, the owners reserve the right to refuse any booking at our discretion at any time prior to your stay, without obligation to provide a reason.


2.Guest Numbers & Additional Fees

  • A maximum of 10 guests are permitted at the property
  • All guests, including children, must be declared in you booking
  • Any undeclared guests or exceeding the maximum limit may result in termination of stay without refund and forfeiture of bond
  • Additional fees apply for extra guests not included in the original booking request.


3. Changes and Cancellations

We understand that plans can change, and we aim to be fair and flexible.

  • Cancel 14+ days before check-in – Full refund
  • Cancel 7–13 days before check-in – 50% refund
  • Cancel within 7 days of check-in – No refund or option to rebook

In the case of severe weather or emergency conditions (e.g. local flooding, road closures, or official weather warnings that prevent safe access), we are happy to offer a full refund or the option to rebook for another date, subject to availability.

*Cancellations by owners* As the owners of the property, we are entitled to cancel the booking in cases of severe weather, emergency conditions or unforeseeable events (damage to vacation rental) In such case, all payments already made will be fully refunded.

If you need to cancel or reschedule, please contact us as soon as possible.


4. Check-in & and Check-Out

  • Check-in Time: after 1pm on arrival date
  • Check-out Time: by 11am on departure date unless otherwise arranged. Late check-out without approval may result in loss of bond.


5. Guest Responsibility During Your Stay

  • You and your guests agree to treat the property with respect and leave it in good condition. Report any damages or issues immediately.
  • You are responsible for the conduct of your party and visitors. Noise must be kept to a minimum after 10pm to respect the neighbours.
  • No parties, schoolies, or disruptive events permitted.


6. Cleaning and Departure

  • There is no cleaner after your leave. Guests are responsible for cleaning the property before departure, including bathrooms and floors.
  • Failure to do so will result in loss of bond.


7. Pets and Furniture

  • Pets are only allowed if agreed in writing prior to your stay.
  • Pets must be kept outside to prevent significant cleaning and replacement costs.
  • Guests must clean up after their pets and ensure they do not disturb wildlife or neighbours.
  • Pets that bark excessively may be requested to leave the property.


8. Vehicles, Caravans, Tents & Camping

  • Caravans, rooftop tents, swags, or camping setups are not permitted without prior written approval.
  • If approved, additional charges may apply, and the total number of people on the property must not exceed 10.
  • Do not park on the esplanade or block neighbouring views.


9. Smoking and Candles

  • Smoking is strictly prohibited inside the house.
  • Smoking must be done at least 4 metres from entrances, and butts must be disposed of thoughtfully
  • Candles are not permitted inside the home
  • Mosquito coils and similar must be used in suitable container. 


10. Bond, Damage & Repairs

  • A bond is required and will be refunded within 7-10 days of departure, pending inspection.
  • The bond may be withheld if:
  • There is property damage
  • Extra cleaning is required
  • Items are missing or broken
  • Check-out obligations are not met
  • Guests must allow access for essential repairs or inspections during their stay if required.


11. Complaints & Disputes

  • If an issue arises, contact us immediately so we can address it as quickly as possible.
  • Complaints not reported during your stay must be submitted in writing within 7 days of departure.
  • This agreement is governed by Australian law. Any legal disputes will be handled in the courts of Queensland, Australia.
  • Please note: We are not responsible for any incidents involving third parties (e.g., neighbours, contractors, passersby) on or near the property during your stay.


12. Respect for Property & Liability

  • You agree not to cause any damage to the walls, doors, carpets, windows, or furnishings of the property.
  • You also agree not to engage in any behaviour that may reasonably be considered as illegal, a nuisance or disturbance to neighbouring residents, or the surrounding community.
  • You are responsible for taking all necessary steps to safeguard your personal belongings during your stay.
  • We accept no liability for damage to, or loss of, your property while on-site.
  • We are not responsible for any injury, loss, or damage suffered by you or any of your guests while staying at or visiting the property.


12. Owner’s Rights Property & Restricted Access

  • The property contains locked cupboards and storage areas that hold the owners’ personal belongings.
  • These are not for guest use and must not be accessed or tampered with.
  • Outdoor sheds and storage areas are also off-limits to guests.
  • Entering restricted areas without permission may result in charges for damage or loss, and could affect the return of your bond.


13. Owner's Rights, Access & Community Etiquette

While we do our best to ensure your privacy and enjoyment during your stay at The Happy Place at Tinnanbar, please note the following:

  • This is a private holiday home, and by booking, guests are granted a license to occupy the property for short-term holiday purposes only. This does not constitute exclusive possession.
  • The owners retain full rights to access the property when needed—for example, for maintenance, repairs, inspections, or emergencies. Wherever possible, we will give reasonable notice and respect your space.
  • As part of a small and friendly coastal community, you may encounter local residents who stop to say hello or offer a friendly wave—it’s just the Tinnanbar way! While we value your privacy, we also ask guests to embrace the local charm.
  • At various times throughout the year, members of the Tinnanbar Community Association may visit to offer guests the opportunity to purchase raffle tickets. All proceeds from these fundraisers go directly back into supporting the local community.
  • We cannot control uninvited visitors such as doorknockers, service providers, or others who may occasionally enter the area or knock on the door. While uncommon, this is outside our control and we appreciate your understanding.

We ask for your understanding and welcome any concerns or questions you may have before or during your stay.