The Islander resort in Surfers Paradise is set for a makeover to expand facilities
FACILITIES at The Islander Hotel in Surfers Paradise are set for expansion and upgrade in wake of its divestment a year ago by Mayor Tom Tate.
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FACILITIES at The Islander Hotel in Surfers Paradise are set for expansion and upgrade in wake of its divestment a year ago by Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate.
New owner Bickle Investments wants to increase the bar area from 192sq m to 709sq m, expand the gaming area from 35sq m to 179sq m, extend restaurant space from 335sq m to 389sq m, and cut reception and function room space from 374sq m to 245sq m.
Additionally, a two-bedroom penthouse will be expanded by 129sq m and become a premium functions and events venue.
In all, some 1226sq m will be added by way of alterations and extensions to the hotel which was acquired with the abutting backpacker hostel, The Islander Resort, in a $26.5 million deal by Brisbane nightclub owner Lou Bickle.
Mr Bickle has applied to the city council to allow the makeover in wake of gaining approval to expand The Islander’s backpacker offering.
An application lodged with the council sought approval for an additional six-level building, with rooftop terrace, to lift backpacker accommodation to 582 beds.
It said the new wing, to include an outdoor bar, would feature 15 backpacker suites spread over five levels, with each suite having bathroom, powder room and shower.
The building is earmarked for land that has hosted a tennis court.
The Islander’s existing seven-level backpacker building has 400 beds and its 12-storey hotel has 98 rooms.
Mr Bickle, a former teacher and one-time bookmaker, operates his Katarzyna Group with sons Bevan and Raphael.
Brisbane hospitality venues include Cloudland, the Press Club, The Family, Birdies, the Empire Hotel, restaurant Bincho, and Fortitude Valley backpacker business Bunk.
Mr Tate put The Islander to market with a $35 million pricetag ahead of his 2012 mayoral election win.
Its sale was handled by Tony Bargwanna, of Ray White Hotels.
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