Nearly two years on from Cyclone Debbie's devastating impact in March 2017, Hayman Island is set to reopen early next year.
Following the announcement of a landmark management deal between IHG and Mulpha Group, the luxury resort will be reopened at 'Hayman Island, by InterContinental'.
Managing Director of IHG Australasia and Japan Leanne Harwood commented on the partnership, saying that it is "particularly special to now welcome Hayman Island into the IHG family. We could not be more delight to continue, and strength, our partnership with Mulpha Australia as we pursue our expansion plans in Australasia."
Greg Shaw, CEO of Mulpha Australia, reiterated the sentiment, "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."
Sitting on 400 hectares of stunning natural rainforest, the 166-room resort will boast cutting edge facilities, rooms and suites for an unparalleled holiday experience.
Natassia Wheeler of Tourism Whitsundays expressed her excitement about the internationally renowned hotel name.
"As far as I'm aware it's going to be opening in the first six months of next year," she said.
"This is great for our marketing efforts globally to have a band with a large consumer following who will travel around the world to stay with that brand."
Ms Wheeler noted that Hayman Island, which will be accessed by helicopter or vessel from Hamilton Island, has a track record of instigating great tourism opportunities for the whole region.
"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.
"For example when Hayman Island held weddings they would source flowers and cakes locally."
"We look forward to working closely with IHG," she said.
(3rd August 2018)