About Secrets
For centuries, Baroon Pocket was an important gathering place for the aboriginal people in South East Queensland. In 1843 the explorer, Leichardt, reported that the plain that aboriginals called ‘Booroon’ was the rendezvous for mock fights between tribes who came from near and far to enjoy the bi-annual harvest of the Bunya Tree. Leichardt came across Obi-Obi Creek (thought to be named after the warrior Ubie Ubie) and the site of several bora rings.
In 1984 George and Aldy Johnston were living in Baroon Pocket, on a farm that was bordered by the beautiful Obi Obi creek with sparkling waterfalls, swimming lagoons and rapids. They had chickens and cows, kiwifruit orchards and a huge veggie patch. They grew fields of watermelons, tomatoes and peas. They also had big dreams of what they wanted to do with their land – George and Aldy had plans to build treehouse cabins down by the creek for visitors to the area to enjoy.
However, their plans became somewhat sidelined when their land was resumed to build what is now Lake Baroon, a $40 million dollar project that now provides water to the Caloundra and Maroochy Shires. Their plans were only put on hold momentarily however, as their good friend and neighbour Steve Weiss offered to sell them what remained of his land after it was also partially resumed for the lake.
It took George and Aldy years of hard work and planning to build the haven they had been envisioning for years on their new land – first came the boathouse, built with recycled timbers and features, followed by the old Beerburrum Railway Station in search of a new name and home. Slowly, slowly the treehouses were designed and built, high in the rainforest filled with amazing woodcarvings, suspended fireplaces, and sumptuous spas. None of these buildings and walkways would have been possible without the major building construction and artwork of our son Rob, a gifted and visionary craftsman and hands-on builder.
They finally opened their business ‘Treetop Cabins on The Lake’ (which was later renamed to ‘Secrets on The Lake’) in 1997, and have been adding and extending the business and facilities ever since. Aldy had a dream or two of her own along the way and Secrets Café is the culmination of a lifetime’s devotion to culinary delights and creative healthy cooking, and each new cabin, extension or change is discussed at length, researched or tested and embraced with enthusiasm.
For George and Aldy, Secrets on the Lake is more then just a business, it is the culmination of all of their dreams and plans.
Beautiful gardens, panoramic views and lake side walks are all a part of the Secrets on The Lake experience
In addition to the natural beauty of the rainforest, lake and mountains, Secrets has stunning gardens and a charming lake house. All guests have access to the grounds unless there is a wedding that has exclusively booked the grounds for their ceremony. Our Secret Garden has stunning flowers, decks, rock pools, arbours and a carved bar and servery. There are toilets at the lakehouse.
The Lake House is a beautiful colonial style building on the foreshore of Lake Baroon. It is cream and white with a crystal chandelier, spacious deck and internal balcony. It has a kitchen, disabled access and toilets. There is also a beautiful jetty which is a lovely spot for fishing, relaxing or wedding photo shoots. Lake Baroon has been stocked with lots of fish, including bass, and canoes, fishing rods and life jackets are available for use – please ask at reception.
OUR MAP
Secrets on the Lake’s interactive map is your guide to exploring our enchanting retreat. Discover the location of our luxury treehouses, Dining on the Deck, walking paths, gardens, and scenic lookouts — all set within the stunning rainforest beside Lake Baroon. Use the map to plan your stay and uncover the hidden gems that make Secrets so magical.
The Nest
This is our special new ‘house’ sized cabin that has all of the facilities of the treehouses while being able to cater for up to six people. It is very family friendly and private.
Whistle Stop Cabin
This quaint cabin includes one queen bed and two singles and is ideal accommodation for small families. The cabin is a heritage building and has it’s own unique personality.
The Moons
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Dining on the Deck
Dining on the Deck is part of the enchanting Secrets on the Lake, a luxury retreat offering treehouse stays, romantic escapes, and unforgettable celebrations.
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The Bower
Discover beauty everywhere: The Bower’s shower features a captivating ceramic sculpture, turning bathing into an experience.
Two Frogs
This treehouse surrounded by the rainforest up amongst the treetops, has the most ‘treehouse feeling’.
Waterlilies
Beautifully appointed and with a view directly to Lake Baroon, Waterlilies is a delightful and very private treehouse, perfect for a couple’s retreat.
Lizard Lair
Lizards Lair has an amazing frill-necked lizard carved into its massive front door with a very private balcony overlooking the lake.
Possums
At eight metres above the ground, the Possums cabin is our highest treehouse, giving it a very special view of the lake and gardens below.
Wait A While
Wait A While has 2 Bedrooms (2 x Queens), a spacious kitchen/dining area and large exterior deck.
Platypus
Platypus is built near the lakes edge and has its own private walkway access and cosy fireplace suspended above the floor.
Dragonfly
Backing onto a cliff face and sitting on a large sandstone rock, Dragon fly is suitable for a couple and has a step down spa bath with a television nestled into a rock and cedar sculpture.
The Secrets Cabin
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Experience our “honeymoon suite” cabin, high in the rainforest on a rock ledge, offering a private oasis surrounded by a grove of palms and ancient red cedar trees. A private waterfall cascading over an ancient cliff face.
The Lake House
Your wedding reception is a dream come true when you book at Secrets on the Lake. You can choose from our stunning lakehouse chapel for a day time reception right by the shores of Lake Baroon, or a beautiful night time reception at our Dining on the Deck restaurant.
The Secret's Garden
Secrets offers a range of ceremony locations to choose from. With stunning panoramic views of the water and beautiful carved decks overlooked by lush rainforest mountains, Secrets Gardens is a beautiful place to get married!
The Jetty
The Jetty at Secrets on the Lake offers a truly magical setting for your wedding ceremony. Suspended over the tranquil waters of Lake Baroon, this stunning location is surrounded by lush rainforest and breathtaking lake views, creating the perfect backdrop for exchanging your vows. Whether you’re planning an intimate elopement or a romantic lakeside celebration, The Jetty brings a sense of serenity and natural beauty that makes every moment unforgettable.
Helicopter
Take your special event to new heights at Secrets! From proposals and honeymoons to “just because” celebrations, arrive in style by helicopter with stunning aerial views — or make a splash by arriving by kayak. Our team is here to bring your unique vision to life.
Canoeing
Add a touch of adventure to your special event at Secrets! From proposals and honeymoons to “just because” celebrations, arrive by canoe and glide across the tranquil waters of Lake Baroon. Our team is here to help make your unique vision a reality.
