Hyatt Sanctuary Cove

Hyatt Sanctuary CoveMulpha is set to rebrand Hyatt Regency Sanctuary Cove an InterContinental, following the signing of a letter of intent with InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) to manage the 274-room property on Queensland’s Gold Coast.

The changeover comes into effect at midnight on December 5, 2012 when the property will transition from Hyatt Regency Sanctuary Cove to InterContinental Sanctuary Cove and Mulpha Australia’s Head of Hotel Investments, Lloyd Donaldson, said the company was looking forward to working further with IHG.

“We are delighted to be entering into this extended relationship with IHG,” Donaldson said.

Mulpha also owns InterContinental Sydney (that was purchased in 2004), as well as luxury Queensland resort Hayman.

“This agreement will provide significant co-operative and strategic marketing and promotional activity for both our Sanctuary Cove and Sydney properties within Australia and internationally as part of the IHG brand,” Donaldson said.

At this stage, HM understands a management contract is yet to be signed, however when contacted yesterday, an IHG spokesperson said the company was looking forward to extending its relationship with Mulpha Australia Limited.

Hyatt’s Area Director of Sales and Marketing – Pacific, Kate Atkinson, told HM the company had enjoyed a strong working relationship with Mulpha Australia Limited and was leaving the property on good terms.

“With the contract coming to an end both parties Mulpha and Hyatt have amicably decided to part ways and look to other options,” she said.

“Hyatt will operate as managers until midnight the 5th of December 2012 and are committed to ensuring that the employees, guests and relevant stakeholders are provided with support and guidance during the transition period.

“We have successfully operated Hyatt Regency Sanctuary for the past 24 years with Mulpha being happy with the management of the hotel. With the contract coming to an end – Hyatt are looking to focus on their key existing hotels as well as explore new opportunities,” Atkinson said.

Hyatt Regency Sanctuary is the second property to leave the Hyatt portfolio in Queensland this year alongside Hyatt Regency Coolum (now Palmer Resort Coolum).

James Wilkinson

Editor-In-Chief, Hotel Management