Sharks turns attention

THE Mantra at Sharks hotel at Southport is hoping to kick some goals with an AFL supporters package as it seeks to grow its share of the sporting and entertainment visitor market.

The $25 million 120-room hotel, located next to the Southport Sharks Football Club, recently celebrated its first birthday after accommodating 23,500 guests in its first 12 months.

The seven-storey hotel has a rooftop bar and access to Southport Sharks club facilities, including catering services plus events and fitness centres.

General manager Gabby Daniels said it recorded an average of 60 per cent occupancy for the period.

“For a new property that is quite high,” she said.

“We had more than 60 days where we reached in excess of 90 per cent occupancy, which is strong for a new product.”

Ms Daniels said the proximity of the hotel to Gold Coast University Hospital, Griffith University and Harbourtown Shopping Centre are all drawcards for guests.

“We get people visiting friends and relatives staying at the hospital. Over Christmas we got a lot of people come to visit their kids that are boarding or studying at Griffith” she said.