AusLeisure

Queensland Premier Anna Bligh has officially reopened a new look Hayman Island Resort, after five months of rectification works in the wake of Cyclones Anthony and Yasi.

Premier Bligh said the popular destination had undergone a multi-million dollar repair operation since the cyclones in addition to a $66 million rejuvenation over the last year, stating "this paradise was battered and bruised but is now back even better than before, Hayman is restored, reopened and ready for business.

"Like so many determined Queensland companies, Hayman picked itself up after the summer disasters and has shown tremendous rebuilding spirit.

"That's great news for the region and for Queensland tourism.

"I congratulate Hayman for employing staff who lost their jobs with other resorts following the cyclones and recruiting Queensland contractors through Queensland company Lend Lease to complete the restoration.

"At the outset Hayman committed to retaining all its employees, with 250 choosing to stay on to assist with repairs and work with celebrity landscape designer Jamie Durie to recreate the tranquil Hayman garden setting.

"The island's iconic 16 hectare botanic garden has been revitalised with the introduction of 33,000 new plants, including 327 new plant species."

Queensland Minister for Tourism, Manufacturing and Small Business Jan Jarratt said the multi-million dollar rectification was a massive vote of confidence in the local economy and would instil confidence in Whitsunday businesses.

Minister Jarratt added "Hayman represents the resilience of the Whitsundays. The resort has withstood two cyclones and prolonged rains, yet in just a few short months it's back in business and looking better than ever..

"In the face of the challenges confronting our industry, the team at Hayman has demonstrated that we can fight back from a shocking summer as a community and as a state.

"The island's refreshed infrastructure and sleek new image broadens the appeal of our region and reminds the world that this is an unbeatable destination offering unbeatable experiences."

Lloyd Donaldson, Head of Hotel Investments for resort operator Mulpha Australia said challenges along the road to recovery were worth it, as the results spoke for themselves.

"We are proud to be showcasing Hayman and thank everyone for their kind support, commitment and good wishes over the last few months, during our period of closure.

"It was an extremely difficult decision for Mulpha Australia to close Hayman for this five month period, particularly with its ongoing investment strategy for the island however the works required and the anticipated disruption to guests meant we had no other choice.

"Once this decision was made we undertook to complete the works as quickly as possible to minimise inconvenience to everyone involved."

The Club Med resort on nearby Lindeman Island remains closed.

For more information go to www.hayman.com.au

4th March 2011 - EXTRA $2 MILLION BRINGS QUEENSLAND TOURISM RESCUE PACKAGE TO $12 MILLION

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