McKillop Geelong by Gold Star Stays

Avoid this place and book with a reputable serviced apartment provider or hotel. No reception for check in. Advertised at the time I booked as having a swimming pool when it doesn't. Over charged me $153 for extra guests and a month later they have still failed to refund my money after countless emails and phone calls.

I had a downstairs, single bed spa unit. Front door lock broken, see photos. The "repair" was a bit flimsy. Owner said he'd get it fixed but didn't. Several dirty marks on the walls. Surfaces and floor were nice and clean, apart from some high areas which were very dirty. Quiet room as requested, even though there was an upstairs neighbour. Bed very comfortable, and I slept well. The pillows were very poor quality and lacked support, though. I had brought my own pillow, fortunately! Dated decor and furniture. Looks 1980's. Table very scratched Dishwasher didn't work well. Filter full of fat and black mould, Cleaned it but still not good as heater seemed not to be working in it. Vertical blinds were damaged and someone had cobbled them together to try and maintain privacy. I daren't turn the spa jets on having seen the filter in the dishwasher. Spas need to be cleaned well and often, or they're a health hazard. Some very loose power sockets. Kids could probably get fingers behind them. The wifi was a very weak signal and the best I got was 2MBPS, that's not enough for modern devices. I hot spotted my phone instead. Laundry is advertised but it's not clear that it's a shared laundry with the other units. The property is well place for Gull airport transfer (6 min walk), Town centre (12 mins), and GMNBA Stadium (12 mins). This could be a lovely unit if it was repaired and refurbished.

We booked for 2021 and it all got cancelled due to restrictions. John has been dodging our communications for our deserved refund, and I have taken this to the ACCC (currently in motion). When we have reached him, John was overtly sexist and rude. He owes us a refund and is still ignoring all communications. Having read other reviews, I can see this would not have been a safe stay anyway as females. Do not book here.

The most terrible experience from start to finish. I've never written a review about anything but felt compelled to write one regarding this accommodation. Absolutely would NOT book again even if there was nothing else available. Rude. Unprofessional. Dodged my messages, e-mails and calls regarding a refund until I changed my caller ID to "Private Number". He then answered not realising it was me then proceeded to hang up on me. Shocking experience.

John cancelled our stay last minute without an explanation, He was very rude and creepy, tried to charge us a cancellation fee. We called him to ask why and he was so rude and hung up on us. We had a family wedding in geelong the next day and had to try and find new accommodation with one days notice, I would not book at this hotel as it seems this is a common occurance.