Taisei Kanko Australia has rebranded its Cairns property, from Holiday Inn to Cairns Harbourside Hotel, with a switch to local management and focus on offering a tropical experience, Accom News reported.

This hotel, now being relaunched as a self-managed, independent property, has been owned by Taisei Kanko since 1991.

The owner expanded the hotel from its original 100 rooms to 173, each featuring private balconies with views of water, mountains, and tropical gardens.

The hotel's Harbourside Bar & Kitchen offers a farm-to-table dining experience, emphasising local produce and an organic wine selection.

Other amenities include a swimming pool, spa, conference facilities, and a CBD shuttle service.

Plans are also underway for a comprehensive room refresh, including new furnishings and bathroom upgrades.

Glen Macdonald takes the helm as the rebranded hotel’s general manager.

Macdonald brings expertise from his 12-year tenure as Fitzroy Island Resort’s general manager and CEO.

His management and marketing strategies are claimed to have significantly improved the resort's performance.

Alongside his deep connection to Far North Queensland are said to make him well-suited to guide the rebranded hotel.

Macdonald was quoted by Accom News as saying: “I am thrilled to lead Cairns Harbourside Hotel into this new era. Our goal is to offer guests a truly immersive experience that captures the essence of Tropical Queensland, from our interior design to the cuisine we serve.”