About us
We’re Johan and Yvonne — or JoY — originally from the Netherlands and happily settled in Australia since 2011. After many years in the Western Suburbs, we dreamed of finding a more rural lifestyle, and eventually discovered our forever home in Romsey. We hope you enjoy our rental cottage as much as we do. We’re passionate about 4WD adventures, camping, and exploring the incredible country we now call home.
Further information
Romsey is a peaceful rural town with a selection of great restaurants, takeaway options, and delivery services. The local Coles is a 10 minute walk and the IGA is a 15‑minute walk away. Guests can park on the property, with plenty of space at the front of the cottage; however, the garage is not accessible. Public transport is limited — the nearest train station is Clarkefield or Riddells Creek, and there is also a local bus service. From Sunbury Station, trains run directly to Melbourne’s Southern Cross and Flinders Street stations.
You can access our guestbook through the following link: Guestbook
How we started
When we purchased the property, it had previously been used as a dependent unit and was in need of significant renovation—it had a strong odor, likely from cats, and required a complete overhaul. Our initial plan was to use the house as a place for visiting family from the Netherlands. However, since it would often sit vacant for long periods—sometimes over a year—we considered offering it as a short-term rental in the meantime.
We started by painting the entire house, replacing the flooring in the living area, and closing off one of the bedrooms. We furnished it using a mix of our old pieces along with some new additions, and listed it on Airbnb. After the first year, we decided to replace the carpet in the two bedrooms to further improve the space.
In 2023 we added the third bedroom, in 2025 we renovated the bathroom and in 2026 a new kitchen. An ensuite in the third bedroom is part of our future plans.
There are plenty places to go for breakfast, lunch or diner in Romsey, we have compiled most information in our guestbook. You can access our guestbook through the following link: Guestbook, there is also a printed copy in the Guesthouse.
Getting around
Romsey is a peaceful rural town with a selection of great restaurants, takeaway options, and delivery services. The local Coles is a 10-minute walk and the IGA is a 15minute walk away. Guests can park on the property, with plenty of space at the front of the cottage; however, the garage is not accessible. Public transport is limited — the nearest train station is Clarkefield or RiddellsCreek, and there is also a local bus service. From Sunbury Station, trains run directly to Melbourne’s Southern Cross and Flinders Street stations.
Neighborhood
JoY's Guest House is located in a quiet residential area of Romsey, a welcoming country town in the Macedon Ranges. Our street is a peaceful street with spacious properties, established gardens, and a relaxed rural atmosphere, while still being only a few minutes from Romsey's town centre. The area is predominantly owner-occupied and is known for its friendly community feel and large residential blocks.
Guests can enjoy easy access to local cafés, bakeries, supermarkets, parks, and sporting facilities in Romsey. The town combines country charm with convenient amenities, making it an excellent base for exploring the Macedon Ranges region. The surrounding countryside offers scenic drives, walking and cycling opportunities, wineries, farmers' markets, and beautiful seasonal landscapes.
