Cairns Harbourside Hotel: A New Era of Independent Hospitality Begins

Monday, February 19, 2024

Taisei Kanko Australia Pty Limited, a prominent hotel proprietor in Cairns, proudly announced the transformation of their Cairns hotel into an independently operated entity, now named Cairns Harbourside Hotel. This significant shift from its former identity under the Holiday Inn banner marks a new chapter in its history.

In a strategic move to transition to local oversight, the hotel has welcomed one of Cairns’ leading tourism experts, Glen Macdonald, as its General Manager. With a rich background including over a decade of leadership at Fitzroy Island Resort, Macdonald brings a wealth of experience in elevating resort offerings through creative management and promotional strategies.

Macdonald, a dedicated advocate for Far North Queensland’s tourism, with his tenure as a board member for the Association of Marine Park Tourism Operators, is perfectly suited to steer Cairns Harbourside Hotel towards its bright future. The hotel is set to continue its legacy as a cornerstone in making Cairns and its surroundings a globally acclaimed destination for tropical vacations.

Since acquiring the Harbourside in 1991 and expanding it in 1993, Taisei Kanko has been instrumental in the growth of tourism in Cairns, enhancing the hotel from its original 100 rooms to 173, all featuring balconies that offer stunning views of the water, mountains, and tropical landscapes.

Situated along the renowned Esplanade of Cairns, which recently saw a $28 million facelift, the Cairns Harbourside Hotel boasts the Harbourside Bar & Kitchen. This unique dining venue emphasizes a Farm-to-Table concept, prioritizing local ingredients complemented by an impressive selection of organic wines, all set against the picturesque Trinity Bay.

The hotel provides an array of amenities including a swimming pool, spa, event spaces, and a shuttle service to the city center, enhancing the guest experience.

With the introduction of new management, Taisei Kanko is eager to reposition the hotel as a standalone establishment that truly embodies the essence of Cairns. This rebranding effort will be highlighted by the unveiling of new signage and the launch of a dedicated website, www.cairnsharboursidehotel.com.au.

Plans are underway to refresh the guest rooms, which will see updates to the furnishings and bathroom facilities, further elevating the guest experience.

Mr Macdonald said that he is thrilled to be appointed General Manager of a hotel that has played such an important role in Cairns’ tourism development.

“I was fortunate enough to lead the team at Fitzroy Island Resort as it established a new direction after I joined in 2011, and I am looking forward to being part of the fresh new vision for Cairns Harbourside Hotel,” said Mr Macdonald.

“All the travel trends in recent years have highlighted visitors increasing desires for accommodation that captures the destination’s DNA. With the new brand image and the plans for upgrading the Hotel, we look forward to delivering a very authentic Tropical Queensland experience, through interior design, the food we offer at our restaurant, and warm and relaxed service.”

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