Travellers Group acquires Bundaberg’s Burnett Riverside Hotel in off-market deal

The managing director of an up-and-coming hospitality operator has described the purchase of an iconic Bundaberg hotel as a “great addition”.

The Burnett RIverside Hotel has new owners after a recent off market sale.

A legendary hotel in the heart of Bundaberg has been snapped up by an up-and-coming Aussie hospitality operator.

The famous Burnett Riverside Hotel, located on the shores of the Burnett River on Quay Street, has been purchased by Travellers Group in an off-market deal brokered by ResortBrokers.

The 44-room hotel becomes the third regional property in their portfolio, following acquisitions in Emerald and Dubbo within the past year.

Travellers Group managing director Craig Smith said the hotel’s location and established reputation made it a key target for the company’s regional growth strategy.

Mr Smith said Bundaberg was always somewhere Travellers Group wanted to be.

“Burnett Riverside Hotel is the only one of its kind in Bundaberg.

“Conveniently located in the city’s CBD, the hotel offers sweeping views of the Burnett River from its restaurant, bar, event spaces and many of its rooms.

“It’s no wonder occupancy is at an exceptionally high level.

“The property has a strong foundation and we look forward to further building on its offering. We feel it’s a great addition to our ‘growing portfolio’.”

Travellers Group Managing Director Craig Smith said the hotel’s location and established reputation made it a key target.

The hotel will be managed by Luke Thomas, who will relocate from Darwin to take up the role.

“Our focus will always be on contributing positively to the local community,” Mr Thomas said.

The sale was handled by Nathan Benjamin of ResortBrokers, who noted the competitive nature of the Central Queensland accommodation market.

“This is one of the highest per-key rates achieved for a regional leasehold hotel in the area, reflecting both the quality of the asset and the demand for opportunities in Bundaberg,” Mr Benjamin said.

The sale was handled by Nathan Benjamin of ResortBrokers.

“The vendor is handing over an exceptional asset and we were happy to achieve for them arguably one of the highest ever per-key rates for a Central Queensland leasehold hotel,” Mr Benjamin said.

Both, Travellers Group and ResortBrokers refused to comment on the sale price of the business.

Established in 2023, the Brisbane-based Travellers Group focuses on regional accommodation.

The company has rapidly expanded, targeting properties in high-demand markets outside metropolitan areas.

The acquisition highlights Bundaberg’s growing appeal as a regional hub for tourism and business, with the Burnett Riverside Hotel poised to play a significant role in the city’s hospitality sector.