Australia’s Oatley family and their luxury Great Barrier Reef resort, qualia , have won a raft of accolades at the 2012 Hotel Management Awards, the leading awards for the accommodation industry in Australia, New Zealand and the Asia Pacific region.
SYDNEY – qualia took out a trio of awards at the prestigious ceremony in Sydney, including ‘Best Resort’, ‘Best Spa’ for Spa qualia for the second year running, and ‘Best Hotel Chef’ for British-born Alastair Waddell. In addition, qualia received several Highly Commended awards, including for Luxury Property, Australian Lodge, Hotel Restaurant (Long Pavilion) and Hotel of the Year.
Michael Shah, qualia’s General Manager, said: “qualia offers guests an outstanding and unique experience each and every time. From exceptional service, to award-winning cuisine and the best in resort leisure facilities, qualia is a beacon of understated luxury and quintessential Australian charm that simply cannot be discovered anywhere else.“
Owners of Hamilton Island and qualia, the Oatley Family was also inducted into the prestigious Hall of Fame, recognised for their significant contribution to the tourism industry through the ongoing investment in, and development of, Hamilton Island. Next year sees the 10th anniversary of the Oatley’s ownership of Hamilton Island.
qualia occupies Hamilton Island’s unashamedly beautiful and sun-drenched northern-most tip. A member of Relais & Châteaux, qualia is set amongst native Eucalypts, with breathtaking views of the surrounding Whitsunday Islands and tranquil Coral Sea. The resort’s outstanding facilities include two infinity-edged pools, two bars and exclusive restaurants, a private dining room, library, fitness centre and Spa qualia, an award-winning venue unto itself. qualia also hosts several special events for its guests throughout the year, including the popular Australian Ballet ‘Pas de Deux in Paradise’ and Great Barrier Feast series.
Alastair Waddell took the helm as executive chef at qualia earlier this year. Prior to qualia, Waddell was chef de partie at the 2 hatted Bistro Guillaume in Melbourne. Preceding his move to Australia, Waddell worked in his home town in Glasgow.
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