New era for K’gari: 1834 Hotels to manage landmark Queensland resorts

A major shift in the management of two of Queensland’s most iconic island resorts has been announced, with 1834 Hotels appointed to take over operations of Kingfisher Bay Resort and K’gari Beach Resort from August 1, 2025.

The appointment by parent companies Kelsian Group and SeaLink Marine & Tourism marks a significant milestone for the growing national hotel group, whose portfolio now surpasses 4000 rooms under management across Australia and the Pacific.

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Located on the UNESCO World Heritage-listed K’gari (formerly Fraser Island), the two eco-accredited resorts are among the country’s most celebrated nature-based tourism destinations, offering beachfront stays, immersive outdoor experiences, and sustainable hospitality practices.

In a statement, 1834 Hotels CEO Andrew Bullock expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity.

“We are honoured to be entrusted with the management of such significant Australian tourism assets,” he said.

“Our proven track record in driving operational excellence and sustainable value aligns perfectly with the vision Kelsian and SeaLink have for K’gari’s future. We look forward to working with the local community and existing teams to deliver memorable stays that respect and showcase this extraordinary destination.”

The new arrangement forms part of an orderly divestment strategy by SeaLink, aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and ensuring continuity of service. While 1834 Hotels will manage all resort operations—from guest services to staffing and revenue—SeaLink will continue to operate all marine and touring services on the island, in collaboration with 1834 to maintain seamless guest experiences.

Donna Gauci, CEO of SeaLink Marine & Tourism, noted the decision was made to ensure the resorts remain in capable hands during the transition.

“Our focus is on ensuring the K’gari resorts continue to deliver the exceptional experiences our guests expect,” she said.

“1834 Hotels’ expertise and national scale make them the ideal partner for this next chapter. We are confident this collaboration will maintain the high standards SeaLink is known for and provide strong interim leadership for the K’gari team.”

The management transition will be carried out in close coordination with current resort teams to ensure stability for both guests and staff.

This appointment further cements 1834 Hotels’ position as a trusted operator of major tourism assets, as the group continues to expand its footprint in key tourism markets.