National recognition for Surfers Paradise's newest landmark

The Hilton Surfers Paradise Hotel and Residences has been named Australia's best tourism and leisure development at the 2013 Property Council of Australia/Rider Levett Bucknall Innovation and Excellence Awards.

Brookfield Multiplex was presented with the Ryan Lawyers Award for Best Tourism and Leisure Development for an exceptional landmark that proved a very challenging project.

Hilton Surfers Paradise Hotel and Residences is well-deserving of national recognition for its innovative design and clever construction solutions, according to Property Council of Australia Chief Executive Peter Verwer.

Verwer explains "after the original developer ran into financial difficulties, developer Brookfield Multiplex and financier ANZ worked together to save the project. Brookfield Multiplex overcame the financial, legal, technical and delivery hurdles that had stalled the project.

"The final product is the first luxury hotel to be built on the Gold Coast in a decade, a unique residential resort, a spectacular contribution to the Surfers Paradise skyline and an economic engine for the local economy."

The Hilton Surfers Paradise Hotel and Residences comprises two striking and architecturally-distinctive high-rise towers with 410 apartments, a 5 star hotel and a high-end retail precinct.

Rider Levett Bucknall Managing Director Mark Burow says that the project has provided major economic stimulus to the Gold Coast economy, with an estimated direct benefit of $2.2 billion.

Burrow adds "Brookfield Multiplex has delivered an exceptional tourist attraction and landmark, and has driven significant employment growth for the Gold Coast region, including 2,000 new jobs directly related to the tourism and retail industries.

"We have partnered with the Property Council of Australia to present this outstanding awards program since its inception in 1982, and are proud to see the best developments recognised again in 2013."

The 2013 Innovation and Excellence Award winners were announced at The Star Event Centre in Sydney on Saturday (18th May).

The Awards celebrate innovation and leading practice within Australia's property development and investment industries.

For a full list of winners please go to www.propertyoz.com.au/awards