Hotel Management Magazine:

Hotel industry speakers said Australia’s next generation of leaders would need commercial discipline, adaptability and strong people skills as AI, constrained supply, mixed-use development and shifting guest expectations reshaped the sector.

The 2026 AHICE Future Leaders Forum was hosted by the respected Professor Simon Pawson, Associate Dean of the Blue Mountains International Hotel Management School. Professor Pawson is a key figure in hospitality education and industry and is heavily involved with AHICE, frequently moderating panels, speaking on industry trends, and welcoming the next generation of leaders.

The Future Leaders Forum 2026 examined career pathways, leadership resilience, hotel development, operations, technology and the importance of building industry networks. The discussion was framed by the hotel school’s role in developing talent, with Pawson noting that industry input remained essential to producing graduates of value. The school’s evolution from its 1991 origins to campuses in Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide was used to underline the sector’s growing need for executive education, applied management training and research-led industry partnership.

The first panel, hosted by Tristan Cooper of Marriott International, explored careers in hotel property and development. Speakers from Colliers, CBRE, JLL, Accor and Trilogy Hotels said many had entered hotels indirectly, often through broader property, valuations, law or operations roles. Sam Abel from Colliers described hotels as “a sub-sector almost in its own little area of property”, while Taylor Morris rom CBRE said she knew quickly that hotels were where she wanted to stay because it was “such a dynamic sector” and “such a beautiful asset class”. Chris Boyd from JLL brought an operations-led background, saying every job he had held had been “somewhat related to hotels.”

A recurring theme was the variety of hotel work. Josie Hungerford from Trilogy Hotels said her first major multi-hotel deal showed her that “no deal has been structured the same and every deal has been different”. The panel agreed that hotels demanded both technical knowledge and human skills. Valuations were identified as a strong foundation for understanding KPIs, value drivers and investor expectations. Hungerford said her legal background had been useful, not only for knowledge, but for “conflict resolution, negotiation, communication”, and relationship building.

Looking ahead, the panel identified AI, constrained supply, mixed-use development and branded residences as defining issues. Chris Boyd said AI would affect “every realm within our industry, from ops to brokerage”, while Taylor Morris from CBRE argued that rising construction and labour costs would restrict new supply and support occupancy, rates and existing asset values. Mixed-use projects were seen as a practical response, with hotels increasingly positioned within broader “living” and destination precincts.

A leadership discussion with 1834 Hotels Executive Chairman, Andrew Bullock, interviewed by Serene Capital Strategy and Investor Relations Manager Amelia Perez and CBRE Asia Pacific Senior Negotiator – Capital Markets, Hotels, Nick Hill, focused on managing uncertainty. Andrew compared the GFC and COVID, noting that each presented distinct challenges but that both reinforced the importance of resilience and balance sheet strength. His key advice was that “there is always a way through”, and he told younger leaders to “keep going, keep the line, keep your head up and just try and make good decisions every single day”. On AI, Andrew compared its impact to the adoption of the internet, saying its efficiency gains were already evident in tasks such as food and beverage displacement analysis. He said AI literacy would become “one of those absolute key skills” for future leaders.

The final panel, led by Scott Barton of EVT, looked at operations and career pathways. Nick Lockyer from Accor said hotels had allowed him to turn “pulling beers into a career,” and later move from operations to development. Jessica James, GM of QT Canberra, contrasted this with a more deliberate path, saying she had known from age 15 that she wanted a hotel career and had become a GM at 24 after taking regional and international opportunities. James Clark of Ovolo Hotels stressed empowerment, describing an internal “Shark Tank” concept where staff at all levels contributed ideas, including a rooftop beehive that produced 45 kilograms of honey.

The closing YHL (Young Hotel Leaders) update reinforced networking as a career accelerator. Speakers from Brisbane, Canberra and Adelaide described YHL as a practical network for young hotel leaders across operations, valuation, legal, construction and investment disciplines. Its expansion to Adelaide was presented as further evidence of a sector investing in its next generation.

All panelists and hosts agreed that future leaders needed resilience, curiosity and confidence with technology, while the industry had to keep investing in talent, mentoring and networks that helped emerging professionals build meaningful, long-term careers.

Source: Hotel Management Magazine 

Media Release – Government of South Australia – Tuesday 5 May 2026

Adelaide’s accommodation sector is experiencing record investment, with a new Hilton Hotel in the city’s East End the latest project in an unprecedented pipeline of hotel developments.

The new Hilton Adelaide East End will be built at 299 Pirie Street, marking the next chapter in the brand’s long-standing presence in the city. Spanning 27 stories, Hilton Adelaide East End will be a 251-room new-build hotel. Developed under a franchise agreement with Auriga Investments and to be operated by Trilogy Hotels, the hotel will form part of Arcadia, a contemporary mixed-use project set to revitalise the eastern end of the CBD.

Across the Adelaide area, 15 hotels are currently in various stages of development − 11 in the CBD including the 35-storey Treehouse Hotel next to the Adelaide Central Market, which is scheduled for completion at the end of this year. Four hotels are underway in the outer metro area including the five-storey Panaroma Hotel on Goodwood Road, which is near completion. Two hotels opened last year the seven-storey George Hotel at Glenelg and Urban Rest Hackney Hotel.

In total, the hotel pipeline will see an additional 2,161 rooms added to Adelaide’s accommodation offering. The Hilton in Victoria Square was last year bought by Thai hotel group Amora Hotels and Resorts which plans to spend $40 million upgrading the site into a five-star luxury offering. Hilton’s announcement comes as more than 1,500 hotel investors from across the globe gather in Adelaide this week for the Asia Pacific Hotel Industry Conference and Exhibition.

“Our state is experiencing undeniable economic momentum. People are looking to South Australia to invest in. This unprecedented growth in the accommodation sector is a direct result of our investment in major events, including MotoGP. Investments like these create jobs during construction, long-term employment within the hospitality sector and support our tourism and hospitality industry more broadly. The momentum is set to continue with the largest hotel conference in the Asia Pacific region here in Adelaide this week. This is where the industry comes together, partnerships are formed and hotel deals are done.”

– Peter Malinauskas

“These sorts of investments further support South Australia’s growing reputation as a world-class destination state. Our unique tourism offerings and calendar of events continue attract visitors from interstate and abroad and it’s important our accommodation sector grows with our status. Hilton has a long history in Adelaide and it’s fantastic that their story will continue with a new chapter in our city’s vibrant East End.”

-Emily Bourke

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Deicorp has announced a partnership with hotel operator Trilogy Hotels and Marriott International to bring Courtyard by Marriott back to Sydney, with the globally recognised hotel brand set to anchor the hospitality offering within the developer’s $640 million Falcon & Alexander project in Crows Nest.

Falcon & Alexander Precinct

Designed by award-winning architects TURNER, Falcon & Alexander will deliver a new vertical village that combines residences, hospitality and retail in a single, integrated destination. Courtyard by Marriott Sydney Crows Nest will occupy the first three levels of the development and is expected to feature 100 guest rooms, along with a suite of amenities designed to meet the needs of today’s modern traveller.

Deicorp Founder Fouad Deiri OAM said the partnership reflects Deicorp’s focus on aligning each project with operators that complement the character and location of the development.

“Crows Nest has always attracted people who value connectivity, great food and a strong village atmosphere. Bringing Courtyard by Marriott back to Sydney as part of Falcon & Alexander is a natural fit for this location. The brand speaks to today’s travellers – efficient, design-led and deeply connected to place, and adds another layer of activity and amenity to the precinct.”

Courtyard by Marriott 

Courtyard by Marriott offers a refined yet relaxed hotel experience that balances productivity, comfort and connection. Guestrooms are designed as smart, spacious retreats, combining plush bedding, flexible workspaces and ergonomic furnishings with high-speed connectivity to support both short stays and longer visits.

The hotel will also feature lively food and beverage venues that reflect the local culture, alongside a distinctive bar and a suite of amenities, including meeting spaces and fitness facilities.

Tristan Cooper, Marriott International’s Director of Hotel Development for Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific, said the signing reflects the strength of demand for globally recognised brands in well-connected urban locations. “Sydney remains one of our most important markets in Australia, and the return of the Courtyard by Marriott brand to the city is a significant milestone. We are delighted to strengthen our relationship with Deicorp and Trilogy Hotels within the impressive Falcon & Alexander precinct, with Courtyard by Marriott Sydney Crows Nest, ideally suited to this vibrant, well-connected north shore location. We believe the hotel will generate strong demand and contribute to precinct activation through its contemporary guest offering, and we look forward to seeing the entire precinct come to life.”

Trilogy Hotels Ongoing Partnership with Deicorp

Earlier this year, Deicorp announced a partnership with Trilogy Hotels and Marriott International to deliver Sydney’s first AC by Marriott as part of its Hyde Metropolitan project on Liverpool Street. “Trilogy Hotels is proud to again be working with Deicorp, alongside Marriott International as franchise partner, to manage the Courtyard by Marriott Sydney Crows Nest. Sydney’s North Shore is rapidly becoming a vibrant extension of the CBD through new transport connections, and this hotel will deliver for our owners, create opportunities for our teams, and provide experiences for guests in one of Sydney’s most dynamic emerging precincts,” said Scott Boyes, CEO of Trilogy Hotels. “We’re excited to contribute to the energy and future of this amazing community and development.”

Falcon & Alexander will deliver 212 apartments, alongside boutique retail and dining at ground level, creating a lively, walkable destination that complements the existing Crows Nest village.

Construction is currently underway, with Courtyard by Marriott Sydney Crows Nest scheduled to open in late 2027.
For more information, visit falconandalexander.com.au.

Spanning 27 stories, Hilton Adelaide East End will be a 251-room new-build hotel intentionally designed with vibrant spaces to set the stage for every stay. Developed under a franchise agreement with Auriga Investments and to be operated by Trilogy Hotels, the hotel will form part of Arcadia, a contemporary mixed-use project set to revitalise the eastern end of the CBD. Strategically located just over 1km from Rundle Mall and the East End, and surrounded by dining, nightlife and cultural destinations, the hotel will place guests at the centre of this sought-after destination, capturing both business and leisure demand in one of Adelaide’s most connected precincts.

“Every great city needs a Hilton hotel, and we are honoured to have been appointed by Auriga Investments as operator of the new Hilton Adelaide East End,” said Scott Boyes, CEO of Trilogy Hotels. “This landmark project underscores Trilogy’s dedication to maximising performance for hotel owners while creating memorable stays for our guests. By combining Trilogy’s local expertise and disciplined operations, along with Hilton’s powerful loyalty program, the hotel will set a new benchmark for quality and service in Adelaide.”

Hilton Adelaide East End will offer thoughtfully designed guest rooms ranging from 31 to 140 sqm, a recreation deck, multiple food and beverage venues, and 303 sqm of meeting space, providing a contemporary full service guest experience tailored to hosting Adelaide’s growing corporate and lifestyle travel segments. Amenities will include a fitness centre and pool, set within a bustling precinct that cultivates social connection, wellbeing and a relaxed city lifestyle.

The area is well connected, with convenient tram access just 700 metres from the site. As a purpose-built development, the hotel features contemporary architecture and has been designed with sustainability and operational efficiency at its core.

“The return of Hilton to Adelaide is both a symbolic and strategic milestone,” said Tushar Raniga, Director of Development, Hilton Australasia. “This project allows us to reintroduce Hilton Hotels & Resorts as a modern, design-led flagship aligned with Adelaide’s growth and evolving skyline. Auriga’s vision and the site’s exceptional location make this an ideal opportunity to re-establish Hilton’s presence in South Australia in partnership with Trilogy Hotels.”

Eric Luk, Director, Auriga Investment Group Pty Ltd, said, “For more than four decades, Hilton has played a defining role in Adelaide’s hospitality landscape, and Auriga is honoured to be part of its rebirth. Arcadia was conceived as a place where community, design and city life come together – a precinct that blends a new residential neighbourhood with a flagship Hilton hotel. Together, they will create a destination that draws locals back into the CBD and supports the year‑round calendar of events that make Adelaide unique. This is a long‑term investment in the city’s future, and we are committed to delivering a precinct that elevates Adelaide for generations to come.”

Set to open in 2031, the full service hotel will join Hilton Honors, the award-winning loyalty program with more than 243 million members worldwide.

Deicorp has announced a landmark partnership with hotel operator, Trilogy Hotels and Marriott International to deliver Sydney’s first AC by Marriott within the developer’s prestigious Hyde Metropolitan project, marking a new benchmark for design-led hotel accommodation in the heart of the city.

The Hotel will occupy the lower levels of Deicorp’s elegant Hyde Metropolitan tower, designed by acclaimed architects Candalepas Associates. The hotel will off er a distinctive blend of modern design, seamless service and understated luxury to Sydney’s CBD, complementing Hyde Metropolitan’s 169 high-end residences positioned above.

The 104-room, AC Hotel by Marriott – Sydney Hyde Metropolitan, will off er a refi ned experience for guests who value elegant design, sophistication and a sense of connection. True to the AC Hotels brand philosophy, spaces will feature harmonious interiors, warm materials, and curated details, with hotel guests having access to a signature ground-floor restaurant and a Skybar on level six.

“Hyde Metropolitan will bring together homes, hospitality and lifestyle in one of Sydney’s most connected locations,” said Fouad Deiri OAM, Founder and Chairman of Deicorp.

“Partnering with Trilogy Hotels and Marriott International to deliver the first AC Hotel in Sydney reflects the project’s vision of refined elegance and style. It introduces a grand new hotel experience to the Hyde Park precinct: design-led, elegant and perfectly positioned to reflect our ambition for this building and the city around it,” said Mr Deiri.

Incorporating the AC Hotel by Marriott – Sydney Hyde Metropolitan into their flagship CBD project reflects a broadening of Deicorp’s mixed-use development strategy and responds to the critical need for more visitor beds in Sydney.

With more than 250 hotels worldwide and a further 180 in the pipeline, AC Hotels by Marriott is one of the fastest-growing brands in Marriott’s lifestyle portfolio, renowned for its European sensibility, contemporary design and social spaces that transition seamlessly from day to night.

Marriott International’s Director, Hotel Development – Australia, New Zealand and The Pacific, Tristan Cooper, said, “Expanding Marriott International’s footprint in the tightly held Sydney market is always a milestone, and to do so alongside Deicorp – with a mutual dedication to high quality and standards – is particularly pleasing. This lifestyle hotel is slated to bring a sophisticated edge to the Sydney market, backed by our world-leading Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program with nearly 271 million global members, who thrive on fresh, distinct experiences. We thank Deicorp for their trust in Marriott International and AC Hotels, and we look forward to a successful collaboration with Trilogy Hotels as they lead the hotel’s management.”

Independent hotel management company Trilogy Hotels currently manages 18 investment-grade hotels across Australia and will provide an operating platform to maximise the performance of this premium hotel. “We are very proud to partner with Deicorp and Marriott International to manage Sydney’s fi rst AC Hotel,” said Scott Boyes, CEO of Trilogy Hotels. “This prestigious project aligns with our commitment to delivering operational excellence for hotel owners while providing guests with unforgettable experiences.”

Located on Liverpool Street near Hyde Park, and positioned within steps of Museum Station and the new Gadigal Metro, Hyde Metropolitan offers unparalleled connectivity to Sydney’s transport network, luxury retail, cultural institutions and the city’s world-class dining scene.

Construction is currently underway, with the hotel scheduled to open in late 2027.

(Sydney, Australia: February 2026): Independent hotel management company Trilogy Hotels has commenced operations of Peppers Gallery Hotel Canberra effective 2 February, a distinctive heritage boutique property located in Canberra’s vibrant New Acton precinct. The transition marks Trilogy’s continued expansion across the nation’s capital and strengthens its growing presence in Australia’s premium hotel sector.

The 80-room heritage-listed property was designed by the prominent architect John Smith Murdoch, who also designed Old Parliament House and the Hyatt Hotel Canberra. The hotel was built in 1927 to accommodate newly employed public servants for the grand opening of the first Parliament House.

The hotel will be managed by Trilogy Hotels and operate under a franchise agreement with Accor, leveraging Accor’s global distribution network and loyalty program.

“We are honoured to be appointed to manage the Peppers Gallery Hotel Canberra on behalf of Molonglo” said Scott Boyes, CEO of Trilogy Hotels. “This exceptional property exemplifies the kind of distinctive, high-performing asset we are passionate about managing. The hotel’s unique positioning in Canberra’s cultural precinct presents a tremendous opportunity under our independent management approach.”

Molonglo is a design-driven property developer with more than six decades of experience shaping distinctive places across Australia and Greece. Its projects span hospitality, mixed-use and residential developments, guided by a philosophy that values architecture, collaboration and thoughtful intervention at every scale.

“We see Trilogy Hotels as a highly capable and values-aligned operator with the expertise to unlock the full potential of this asset. We look forward to working closely with their team to strengthen Peppers Gallery Hotel Canberra’s positioning in the Canberra market,” said Nikos Kalogeropoulos, Molonglo co-director.

The hotel features conference and meeting facilities complemented by art installations throughout both public and private spaces. The hotel is located just 300 meters from Canberra’s CBD, the Civic Centre. Guests enjoy premium amenities, including a fitness centre, library bar, and 24-hour reception, alongside close proximity to Lake Burley Griffin, the National Museum, and Canberra’s leading cultural institutions. The property’s distinctive heritage character, combined with contemporary amenities, makes it an ideal destination for discerning travellers and a compelling venue for corporate events and conferences.

“Peppers Gallery Hotel Canberra continues to be an excellent, character-rich representation of our Peppers brand in an important market,” said Adrian Williams, Chief Operating Officer for Accor in the Pacific region. “This transition demonstrates the strength and flexibility of our franchise model, which is designed to support hotel owners in achieving their long-term objectives, while enabling operators like Trilogy Hotels to manage day-to-day operations and harness the capability and strength of Accor’s global distribution, loyalty and brand platforms to accelerate stronger, sustainable performance.”

“Our success with third-party management has created positive momentum in the market,” shared Boyes. “We’re receiving strong interest from hotel owners who recognise that partnering with an experienced, independent operator delivers tangible results. The Peppers Gallery Hotel Canberra is another opportunity to demonstrate the value this model creates for hotel owners, teams and guests.”

Meet the Trilogy Team

Trilogy Hotels is pleased to announce the appointment of Paul Pratt as Director of Finance and Development, reinforcing Trilogy’s commitment to optimising financial and operational outcomes across our portfolio.

Pratt joins Trilogy Hotels with more than two decades of senior leadership experience across finance and operations, including key Regional and Vice President finance roles with Accor in both Australia and Asia, as well as prior senior positions with TFE Hotels. Over this time, he has led large multi-country portfolios, partnered closely with owners, and delivered strong financial and operational performance.

In his new role, Pratt will be responsible for driving Trilogy Hotels’ portfolio performance, enhancing financial analysis and feasibility, and contributing to new management opportunities.

Trilogy Hotels’ Chief Executive Officer Scott Boyes shared, “Great people are at the heart of Trilogy’s success and at the centre of everything we do. Paul not only brings outstanding capability and experience but also a deep alignment with our values – collaboration, integrity and performance. His leadership will further enhance our ability to deliver value for owners, exceptional experiences for guests, and meaningful careers for our teams.”

(Sydney, Australia: December 2025): Effective 2 February 2026, Leura Gardens Resort, will be rebranded as Comfort Resort Leura Gardens under a franchise agreement between hotel owner Schwartz Family Company and Choice Hotels Asia-Pac. Trilogy Hotels will continue to operate the resort. The strategic collaboration marks the first time Trilogy Hotels has partnered with Choice Hotels.

Comfort Resort Leura Gardens will operate under the globally recognised Comfort Resorts brand, leveraging Choice Hotels’ world-leading distribution network and loyalty program Choice Privileges. The multi-year franchise agreement extends through 2034, signalling strong confidence in the long-term potential. Located just minutes from the picturesque town of Leura and the gateway to the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains National Park, less than two hours from Sydney, Comfort Resort Leura Gardens offers guests an ideal destination for relaxation, corporate retreats, conferences, weddings, and functions.

Expansion

The property’s historic gardens, created in the 1920s by Lady Mabel Fairfax and renowned gardener Hector Hood, remain a distinctive feature of the resort experience today. Currently operating 92 rooms, Comfort Resort Leura Gardens will undergo significant expansion with the addition of approximately 100 new rooms throughout 2026. In addition to room expansions, the property is undergoing comprehensive renovations including upgrades to its solar-heated swimming pool, enhanced guest facilities, and a major redesign of The Olive Tree restaurant.

This room expansion follows the Schwartz Family Company’s recent site acquisition of the adjacent Blue Mountains International Hospitality School, which will be reconfigured along with the addition of Hotel Etico – Australia’s first social enterprise hotel, providing hospitality training for people with disabilities.

“The combination of Trilogy’s operational expertise with Choice Hotels’ global reach and loyalty network, supported by Jerry Schwartz’s strategic vision and investment, creates a compelling proposition for guests and stakeholders alike. We’ve been impressed by the calibre and flexibility of the Choice Hotels team and look forward to building on this relationship,” said Scott Boyes, Chief Executive Officer, Trilogy Hotels.

Jerry Schwartz, Principal of the Schwartz Family Company, shares a longstanding partnership with Choice Hotels, having previously collaborated on Hotel Harry, an Ascend Collection Hotel.

“Our decision to partner with Choice Hotels for Comfort Resort Leura Gardens reflects the brand’s strong position in the mid-scale resort segment and its proven performance in regional markets,” said Schwartz.

“We are confident the globally recognised Comfort brand – combined with Choice’s distribution reach and Trilogy’s operational expertise – will unlock significant value for the property while enhancing the experience for guests and the local community,” added Schwartz.

Trent Fraser, Chief Executive Officer of Choice Hotels Asia-Pacific, added: “We are thrilled to further our relationship with Jerry Schwartz and the Schwartz Family Company through Comfort Resort Leura Gardens. This opportunity also represents our first collaboration with Trilogy Hotels, whose independent management model and focus on operational excellence align perfectly with our mission to connect the world through the power of hospitality.

“Choice Hotels is renowned for delivering a strong value proposition for hotels in the mid and upscale segments, with particular strength in Australia’s regional markets, and we look forward to expanding our offering and portfolio in New South Wales by working hand in hand with these top hotel and hospitality innovators.”

The resort features an on-site restaurant, fitness room, guest lounge, and solar-heated swimming pool. Its strategic location provides easy access from Sydney while offering proximity to world-class attractions including the Blue Mountains National Park, local wineries, and adventure experiences.

The resort also benefits from an established partnership with the adjacent golf course, also owned by the Schwartz Family Company, providing guests with integrated leisure offerings. For the resort’s existing team members, this collaboration represents enhanced professional development opportunities and access to Choice Hotels’ extensive global training and career progression programs.

The continued management by Trilogy Hotels ensures operational consistency while bringing fresh momentum and resources to the property. This collaboration underscores the growing trend of hotel brands and management companies collaborating to deliver superior results for owners and guests. It positions Comfort Resort Leura Gardens as a gateway destination for those seeking premium value, distinctive experiences, and authentic Blue Mountains hospitality.

Trilogy Hotels commenced operations of the contemporary Melbourne property on 1 December 2025

(Sydney, Australia: December 2025): Trilogy Hotels announced it assumed management of the Ink Hotel Melbourne Southbank on 1 December 2025, rebranding the 162-room property as ibis Styles Melbourne Southbank under a franchise agreement with Accor. This marks Trilogy Hotels’ first venture into the Melbourne market, amidst its rapid expansion across Australia. The hotel is owned by Nadathur Group (a Singapore privately owned company).

Located at 167 City Road in Southbank, the hotel is situated in one of Melbourne’s most vibrant entertainment and cultural precincts. The rebranding to ibis Styles Melbourne Southbank underscores Trilogy’s commitment to providing flexible and agile management solutions for hotel owners. Accor will serve as the franchise partner, offering brand distribution and access to its loyalty program.

“We are honoured to be working with Nadathur Group and excited to be entering Melbourne with this exceptional property,” said Scott Boyes, CEO of Trilogy Hotels. “The conversion to ibis Styles Melbourne Southbank under Trilogy management will deliver strong operational performance, great guest experiences and launch careers in the industry we love.”

“We are pleased to be partnering with Trilogy Hotels and Accor on the transition of the hotel to ibis Styles Melbourne Southbank,” shared a spokesperson of the Nadathur Group. “Our decision to partner with Trilogy Hotels stems from their demonstrated ability to unlock value in premium hotel assets while maintaining service excellence. Combined with Accor’s international distribution network and brand strength, this partnership creates a compelling value proposition for guests, staff, and stakeholders. We look forward to supporting the hotel’s next chapter in one of Australia’s most dynamic urban precincts.”

Accor Pacific Chief Operating Officer, Adrian Williams, commented, “We’re thrilled to welcome ibis Styles Melbourne Southbank into the city’s Accor network in partnership with Trilogy Hotels. As Melbourne’s hotel landscape continues to evolve, Southbank is the perfect setting for a bold and playful ibis Styles experience, and a strong contribution to the city’s growing visitor economy.”

The property features an on-site restaurant, coffee shop, bar, and 24-hour front desk services. Its prime location places guests at the heart of Melbourne’s cultural and entertainment district, with Crown Melbourne directly opposite, and the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre just steps away for business guests. Cultural landmarks such as the National Gallery of Victoria, Arts Centre Melbourne, and the Royal Botanic Gardens are within walking distance.

“Melbourne is a great city with wonderful hotels, it is critical that Trilogy has a presence in Melbourne and ibis Styles represents the perfect opportunity for us. Southbank is a very exciting precinct where art, entertainment, and business all contribute to the market mix,” Boyes added.

The hotel embraces ibis Styles’ distinctive design-led philosophy, featuring vibrant social spaces, playful interiors, and unique artistic elements that inspire creativity and connection.

For the hotel’s existing team members, the move to Trilogy Hotels’ management represents new opportunities for professional development and career growth.

Trilogy Hotels expands its Western Sydney footprint with management of Mercure Penrith

Trilogy Hotels has commenced operations of Mercure Penrith under a management deal with Serene Capital

(Sydney, Australia: September 2025): Independent hotel management company Trilogy Hotels has commenced operations of the Mercure Penrith, a contemporary hotel adjacent to the Panthers Penrith Leagues Club. Together with the Club, Pullman Penrith and Western Sydney Convention Centre, this move builds a fully integrated sports, entertainment and accommodation precinct.

This is the first hotel management deal between Trilogy Hotels and Serene Capital, an innovative and highly experienced real estate management company with over $850 million in assets under management, including 15 hotels in Australia. This deal continues Trilogy’s focus and expertise on the Greater Western Sydney market, where it now manages seven hotels. Accor will continue to provide world-class brand distribution and guest loyalty program support under the Mercure franchise agreement.

The Mercure Penrith features 222 accommodation rooms, a fitness centre, a guest lounge, an outdoor swimming pool, a BBQ area, and ample parking.

Its prime location is adjacent to the Panthers Precinct and the Western Sydney Conference Centre, which can accommodate up to 1,000 seated guests, enhancing its appeal. The precinct is home to major live music and stage show venues, as well as numerous adrenaline activities, including Aqua Golf, iFly Indoor Skydiving, and Cables Wake Park. Additionally, the hotel’s proximity to the Blue Mountains makes it an attractive destination for both business and leisure guests.

“We are very proud to partner with Serene Capital and Accor to manage the Mercure Penrith,” said Scott Boyes, CEO of Trilogy Hotels. “Glen and his team have done a wonderful job in building a strong business that will be a wonderful addition to the precinct and lay the groundwork for a very exciting future ahead.”

Glen Boultwood, CEO and Co-Founder of Serene Capital, added, “We are delighted to collaborate with Trilogy Hotels on our first franchise arrangement in Australia as we position the hotel in anticipation of the opening of the new Western Sydney International Airport (WSI). We look forward to working together to ensure the Panthers Precinct remains Western Sydney’s go-to place for conferencing, sports, and entertainment for the local community, domestic, and international guests.”

Western Sydney is Australia’s third-largest economy, boasting iconic venues like Sydney Olympic Park and the Western Sydney Parklands. The WSI is scheduled to open in late 2026 and is predicted to welcome 10 million passengers annually by 2031. Significant new infrastructure projects, including improved road and rail access between Penrith and the airport, are already underway.

With seven hotel assets now under its management in Greater Western Sydney, Trilogy Hotels aims to position itself as a conduit between public and private partners looking to unlock the full potential of the region’s tourism offerings.

This partnership further demonstrates the destination strength of Western Sydney. “With a new airport around the corner, these positive partnerships highlight the very bright future we have ahead of us. It is indeed very exciting to be a hotelier in Greater Sydney right now,” Boyes shared.