Oaks Hotels, Resorts and Suites will open its 28th property in Queensland in September as the final stage in construction prepares to wrap at the group’s newest location in Cairns.
The opening of the 76-room hotel will complete the AUD$12 million redevelopment of a prime former commercial and retail site at 59 Cairns Esplanade which saw three levels added to the existing building. Oaks Cairns will be the brand’s second opening in three months, following Oaks Toowoomba, which opened doors to guests on 1 July.
Oaks Hotels, Resorts & Suites Chief Operating Officer, Craig Hooley, said the year had been challenging for all hotel providers experiencing the effects of the pandemic.
“Minor [Hotel Group] is confident in the return of the traveller and thrilled to see Oaks continue to move forward and expand its portfolio into the city centre of Cairns, offering a premium accommodation option from which to explore the region,” he said.
Guest facilities at the new Oaks Cairns Hotel will include the rooftop Oak & Vine restaurant and bar, which will serve breakfast and light lunch options. Each evening, the space will become a vibrant cocktail bar, with a menu of Peruvian share plates and modern Australian snacks.
Oaks Cairns will welcome guests from 15 September, complementing the existing Oaks Port Douglas resort in tropical North Queensland.
Kelly Development Services Director, Paul Kelly, said the conversion of the existing site combined with Oaks’ well-known brand recognition in the area made the development a perfect fit.
“New Boutique hotel stock is a necessity for Cairns to reflect the changing needs of travellers and capitalise infrastructure and improvements taking place along the Cairns waterfront,” Kelly said.