Outrigger name changes

The Outrigger resort at Ettalong Beach changed its name to Mantra Ettalong Beach on March 1, following a $120 million buyout from the Stella Hospitality Group (SHG).

The Ettalong Beach resort was one of 10 Outrigger properties in Australia to reopen under the Mantra name.

Mantra Ettalong Beach general manager Mr Nicolas Bottiglieri said the takeover was "a positive one for the area".

"We have had an amazing response from guests and the local community following the change," Mr Bottiglieri said.

According to Mr Bottiglieri, "98 per cent of questionnaires returned by guests say they had a fantastic time" staying at the Mantra Ettalong Beach.

"Locals visiting the resort have also commented on how lovely the place is."

Mr Bottiglieri said the Mantra name suggested "pure relaxation", reflecting the Jhalu Day Spa and Fitness Centre on offer to guests.

Mr Bottiglieri said the takeover would introduce the area to the SHG and create "fantastic career options" for staff to "further their careers within the company".

The Mantra chain now own 21 properties nationwide, positioning it as "one of the biggest operators in the 4 to 4 1/2 star accommodation market" according to SHG chief executive officer Mr Bob East.

"The Outrigger deal is a tremendous boost to Mantra resorts in the four-star accommodation market," Mr East said.

"It delivers us a collection of premium properties in highly desirable tourism destinations around Australia."

Mr Bottiglieri said "one of the major physical changes" the Ettalong Beach resort underwent was the Mantra signage.

According to Mr Bottiglieri, "95 per cent of changes to signage were undertaken in only two days".

"This was a tremendous effort considering how much of a major undertaking the job was," Mr Bottiglieri said.

Clare Graham, 23 Mar 2007