One of Baillie Lodges’ highly regarded lodge leaders, Bridie Bush took the top job at Capella Lodge in 2025 after career-making tenures at luxury outback camp Longitude 131° and the century-young Huka Lodge.

Bridie’s commitment to her career development is evident in her completion of an online MBA while the hospitality industry was on hold during the pandemic. Shortly afterwards, Longitude 131° called to invite Bridie to make the move to the Red Centre as Assistant Lodge Manager. Bridie offers this advice to people thinking of making the move to the remote outback lodge: “Make the most of it! It’s really nice to have a small community of people you can make friends with, while having the opportunity to save money”.

After two fulfilling years in the Red Centre, Bridie and her Executive Chef husband, Ryan, relocated across the Tasman to work at sister property, Huka Lodge on New Zealand’s North Island, where Bridie stepped into the role of Assistant Lodge Manager. In 2025, drawn by the chance to return ‘across the ditch,’ Bridie and Ryan took the reigns as Lodge Managers at Capella Lodge. They’ve embraced Lord Howe’s idyllic beauty and warm community, ready to share their favourite island adventures and create the kind of memories that keep guests coming back year after year.