Mala McAlpin It’s been two whole years since the devastation of Cyclone Debbie, but Hayman Island is slowly making its way back to the top of the list of Australia’s most sought-after spa resort destinations.
Following a landmark deal last week between InterContinental Hotel Group (IHG) and Malaysian multinational Mulpha Group, the resort will be relaunched next year as “Hayman Island, by InterContinental”. IHG will still continue management of both InterContinental Sydney and InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort.
The hotel, which will be the only property on the 400 hectare island, will boast 166 rooms and world-class facilities, and be accessible by either luxury vessel or helicopter. Mulpha will also be making available a selection of homes for purchase, for those wanting a slice of island paradise for themselves.
Hayman Island has been known as one of our country’s most luxurious holiday destinations since its development in the 1950s by Australian businessman and aviator Sir Reg Ansett.
InterContinental’s Sanctuary Cove resort will also enjoy an upgrade and refurbishment.
“Luxury travellers to Australia have long had an affinity with InterContinental Sydney and InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort, so we are thrilled to continue their legacy for many years to come,” says IHG’s managing director Australasia and Japan Leanne Harwood.
“We are delighted to continue our successful partnership with InterContinental Hotels and Resorts and look forward to an exciting period of investment to reinforce our leading position in the Australian luxury hotel market,” added Greg Shaw, CEO, Mulpha Australia Limited.
The partnership comes as an exciting development for Hayman, since it was dropped from One&Only’s portfolio mid-last year.
IHG currently has 47 hotels across Australasia, including InterContinental, Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express. An additional 19 are currently in the works, including Hotel Indigo and EVEN Hotels.
According to Tourism Whitsundays general manager Natassia Wheeler, the resort should be opening within the first 6 months of 2019. “Two years on from the cyclone and it’s a really exciting celebration for us as visitation to the islands creates a ripple effect for the entire region,” says Wheeler. “For example when Hayman Island held weddings they would source flowers and cakes locally. We look forward to working closely with IHG.”
Further updates and information on the luxury spa facilities will be released closer to the launch date – stay tuned!
