Sydney (14 September 2010): Sofitel Luxury Hotels has been named ‘Best Hotel Brand’ at the 2010 Hotel Management Magazine (HM) Awards held in Sydney this month.

Sofitel Luxury Hotels was one of the most commended hotel brands at the 2010 HM Awards ceremony, recognised not only for being the region’s most outstanding hotel brand but earning equal praise across a variety of diverse categories including regional hotel awards, department awards and key staff and supplier accolades.

In the ‘Major Awards’ categories, Sofitel Luxury Hotels was not only awarded ’Best hotel Brand’ but earned the prestigious “Best Hotel’ prize for stunning Sofitel Queenstown Hotel & Spa won Best New Zealand Hotel, a timely prize on the heels of the hotel’s recent multimillion dollar renovation and upgrade program.

Launched in 2005 as Queenstown’s original five-star hotel, Sofitel Queenstown Hotel & Spa has been reborn this month, following an impressive $2 million upgrade and extension. The multi-million dollar injection into the Queenstown hotel sector follows the purchase of the hotel and the complex’s retail space by established property developer, Graham Wilkinson.

The new look hotel now featured an updated ground level which has extended to incorporate a new leisure business centre with a meeting space exclusive for more intimate gatherings and functions suited to VIP clientele. In addition, Sofitel has launched Left Bank Cafe, inviting hotel guests and other patrons to take breakfast and lunch in charming Parisian style, without ever having to leave the heart of Queenstown

Sofitel Brisbane Central, Classic Hits 4KQ and Brisbane Arcade will host a winning Melbourne Cup luncheon on Tuesday 2nd November.

Punters, fashionista’s and race day enthusiasts will enjoy the spectacular action of the Melbourne Cup on the Sofitel ballroom cinema screens whilst indulging in a gourmet feast by Executive Chef Patrice Falantin.

Hosted by Classic Hits 4KQ Breakfast Crew, the Melbourne Cup luncheon includes Champagne cocktail on arrival, a three course gourmet menu, free flow sparkling and a selection of wine and beer.

The contagious tunes of “Out There” will keep guests entertained as they perform an impressive repertoire of classics including hits from Tom Jones, Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, Elvis The Temptations, Tina Turner and many more. 

Enjoy spring fashion parades by Brisbane Arcade, fashions on the field competitions, sweeps and the convenience of on-site TAB.

Fantastic prizes are up for grabs and one lucky fashionista will strut away with a 5 night holiday for two at the luxurious Sofitel Fiji, including return airfares for two and breakfast daily. Bula!

Event commences at 11.30am. Tickets limited. Early bird special available until 30th September, $149pp or from October 1st, $175pp.

Harlequin Jack has opened! The new bar, bistro and gaming lounge is located on the lower lobby level of Sofitel Brisbane Central, with access also via Central Station. Harlequin Jack offers relaxed bistro style dining, full gaming facilities including Keno and more than 30 pokie machines along with Fox Sports and TAB services. Open 10am until late Monday - Saturday Harlequin Jack is a perfect meeting place in the heart of the CBD.