valerie black
The serene coastal town of Phillip Island holds a hidden gem, a place that bears both a poignant history and a promising future. Originally conceived as the domain of tranquility for Valerie Black’s massage therapy studio, it now stands as a testament to her legacy, transformed into a beachside accommodation where her spirit lives on.
Valerie was more than just a masseuse; she was a beacon of strength and resilience, a warrior who faced the daunting challenge of triple-negative metastatic breast cancer with unwavering courage. For two years, she battled relentlessly, her massage studio, Phillip Island Massage Therapy, a symbol of her determination and dedication to healing others.
However, when cancer claimed her energy and vitality, Valerie made the difficult decision to pass the reins of her beloved studio to her colleague, Andrew Schneider. Though Andrew continues to honor Valerie’s legacy through his work, her absence left a palpable void in the space she once filled with warmth and compassion.
After Valerie’s passing in January of 2024, her husband Kieran and their two young children were left to grapple with the profound loss of a wife and mother. The studio, once bustling with the energy of healing hands, now stood empty—a silent testament to Valerie’s enduring spirit and the fragility of life.
Determined to preserve Valerie’s memory and honor her legacy, Kieran made the heartfelt decision to repurpose the studio into a beachside accommodation, ‘Cape Woolamai Surfers Retreat’. Every aspect of the transformation was imbued with Valerie’s essence, from the soothing color palette to the meticulously chosen furnishings she had designed herself.
Today, this accommodation serves as a sanctuary for travelers seeking solace and serenity by the sea. But more than just a place to stay, it is a living tribute to Valerie’s indomitable spirit and boundless compassion. In her memory, $10 from every booking is donated to cancer charities, supporting young families affected by the same insidious disease that claimed Valerie’s life.
Through this gesture, Valerie’s legacy continues to touch the lives of others, offering hope and comfort to those facing similar struggles. As guests relax and rejuvenate in the space she once called her own, they become part of Valerie’s enduring legacy, ensuring that her light continues to shine brightly in the world, illuminating the path for others to follow.