Branson to rent Aussie private island to the public

Thought Richard Branson only had one private island? Nope, as well as Necker he also has the beautiful Makepeace Island - and he's now set to rent it out to you, the public.

The 9.2-hectare, heart-shaped island on Australia's Sunshine Coast at Tewantin near the mouth of the Noosa River, is described by Branson and its co-owner Brett Godfrey as 'our little slice of Bali heaven'. And it is truly stunning.

But you'd better get your piggy bank out - it's not cheap at AU$8,990 (approx £6000) for eight or less people per night, rising to AU$16,990 (approx £11,315) for up to 22 people.

Since buying Makepeace in 2007, Branson's reserved his Balinese-style retreat for private parties with friends and staff. But he's now offering it - along with all meals, transfers from the airport, luxury accommodation and even a dinner cruise – to wealthy members of the public who can afford the luxury price-tag.

Branson told CNN: 'When neither Brett nor myself are visiting Makepeace, we will make the island and the facilities available for others to enjoy the tranquility of what is a very special place.'

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