Inside Asian Gaming

DECEMBER 2018 INSIDE ASIAN GAMING 75 What stands out most about Star’s newmega masterplan is the sheer scale of the investment – putting it on par with flagship propertyThe Star Sydney and the AU$3.5 billion Queen’s Wharf Development set to transformBrisbane. IN FOCUS new hotel towers and associated resort facilities on Broadbeach Island – a vast expansion on the original plan of just one new tower plus upgrades to existing facilities at The Star Gold Coast. Development of that first hotel tower, the Dorsett hotel and apartments, is already underway and expected to be completed by 2022. The Star Gold Coast is also well advanced on a previously announced AU$850 million redevelopment and opened a 17-story luxury suite hotel called The Darling – complete with private gaming room Sovereign – in March. What stands out most about Star’s new mega masterplan is the sheer scale of the investment – putting it on par with flagship property The Star Sydney and the AU$3.5 billion Queen’s Wharf Development set to transform Brisbane, located just an hour north of the Gold Coast by car. According to Star Entertainment Group Managing Director and CEO Matt Bekier, “The masterplan in its entirety would see The Star Gold Coast boast more tourism accommodation than any other resort in Australia.” Moreover, “The 3,000 hotel rooms and apartments would also exceed what the world-renowned Marina Bay Sands in Singapore offers, and be on a scale to compare with the largest integrated resorts in Las Vegas. “This would be a project of incredible scale … our expanded masterplan provides the opportunity for another four towers and world-class facilities. They would include a stunning recreational deck, water features and hero pools, a quality day spa, new dining precincts, more bars and cafes, exciting entertainment facilities, plus a nightclub where international acts can be showcased.” The Gold Coast hasn’t traditionally been viewed as a particularly high-end tourist destination – aside from its sandy white beaches, it is perhaps best known in Australia for its Cavill Avenue bar and nightclub strip and as the home of “Schoolies