Annette has always had a passion for travel and exploring new ideas. During her time living in London, she wondered how she could make money from travel. In the end, the higher wages of ‘normal’ jobs won and that paid for her passion for several years abroad, and continued when she returned to Australia.

Annette is happily married to Gavin Blake. When considering where to create their home together, and an Anniversary trip to The Carrington, they explored the possibility of a small cottage for weekend getaways and remaining in Sydney to work. Annette stumbled across 14 Lovel Street, Katoomba, and knew it was meant to be. They soon abandoned plans to live between Sydney and the Mountains and made the tree change in 2018, just six months after becoming the proud new owners of No.14.

After a varied and eclectic career ranging from film distribution, celebrity management, retail, high-end lifestyle marketing, print production, design & branding agencies in Sydney and London, and a personal commitment as Non-Executive Not-For-Profit Director; Annette fell into her perfect role as the Accidental Innkeeper. She loves nothing more than welcoming guests to No.14 Lovel St and making them feel comfortable and relaxed; and relishes sharing her local knowledge of the unknown breadth of experiences to enjoy throughout the Blue Mountains.