BWH Hotels has signed its first-ever hotel management agreement in Australia with the Cambridge Hotel Kununurra, located in Western Australia’s East Kimberley region. This milestone marks a significant shift for the global brand, known for its strong franchise operations, as it moves into hotel management across Australia and New Zealand.
The group will officially assume management in May, with a full rebrand to Best Western Cambridge Hotel Kununurra expected to be finalised in June.
Major transformation in three stages
The hotel’s redevelopment is planned across three stages. The first phase launches with 49 fully refurbished guest rooms. Phase two will see the addition of a conference centre, wellness centre and a pool bar. By the end of 2026, the final stage is set to nearly double capacity, with an extra 48 rooms bringing a contemporary edge to this remote outpost.
Existing features include an on-site restaurant and bar, car parking, and a swimming pool. The property is just five minutes’ drive from Kununurra Airport and within walking distance of the town centre – a strategic location for both convenience and tourism appeal.
Gateway to the Kimberley
Kununurra (Goonoonoorrang), located in Australia’s remote northwest, is the eastern gateway to the rugged Kimberley region. Known for its deep connection to Indigenous culture, the region offers immersive adventure experiences, from river cruises and bush walks to scenic flights over World Heritage-listed Purnululu National Park – home to the ancient Bungle Bungle Range.
Strategic growth for BWH Hotels
“This partnership represents a significant milestone in our regional growth strategy,” said Rod Munro, Managing Director of BWH Hotels Australasia.
“The expansion into hotel management is a natural progression for our business, allowing us to leverage our extensive operational expertise while delivering exceptional value to hotel owners and memorable experiences to guests.”
Cambridge Gulf Limited CEO Tony Chafer added, “We’re thrilled to partner with BWH Hotels to elevate the Cambridge Hotel Kununurra to new heights. Their proven management expertise and global distribution strength will significantly enhance our property’s commercial returns.”
The new management approach will focus on delivering tailored experiences to both business travellers and domestic and international leisure guests drawn to the Kimberley. With its sights set on tech-savvy, independent and globally minded travellers, BWH Hotels’ strategy reflects a modern vision of hospitality that suits the unique demands of remote tourism.
Strong growth pipeline ahead
BWH Hotels’ move into hotel management in Australia builds on its success in the Asia Pacific, where nearly one-third of its properties in Thailand are directly managed. With a robust development pipeline already in place across Australia and New Zealand, the brand is well-positioned for continued growth in the region.
