Voyages’ other offering, Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre in Far North Queensland, was also part of the deal between Journey Beyond and the Indigenous Land and Sea Corporation (ILSC).
“This transaction marks an important milestone for both the ILSC and Journey Beyond,” said ILSC group CEO, Joe Morrison.
“The sale completion enables the ILSC to fulfill the first of a series of transactions that will ultimately see the transfer of land and buildings at both sites for the benefit of the respective Traditional Owners, while Journey Beyond assumes ownership of Voyages and ultimate responsibility for the operations forward, adding Ayers Rock Resort and MGCC to its portfolio of tourism experiences in partnership with Indigenous communities.”
The sprawling Ayers Rock Resort is the main tourism offering at Uluru, with the only other option in the vicinity of the Australian icon the boutique glamping experience at Longitude 131, run by Baillie Lodges.
Ayers Rock Resort incorporates multiple accommodation options, visitor experiences and space for business events.
“This is an incredibly important and exciting moment for Journey Beyond,” said the company’s CEO, Chris Tallent.
“Voyages aligns perfectly with our purpose – to create amazing, connected and authentic experiences. Our ambition continues to bring together the most distinctive, experience-led brands that celebrate the very best of Australia’s and New Zealand’s landscapes and cultures.”
As part of the acquisition, Voyages will lose “Indigenous” from its name, in line with it no longer being owned by the ILSC, becoming Voyages Tourism Australia. The established National Indigenous Training Academy at Ayers Rock Resort will continue to operate.
Already in control of unique and iconic Australian experiences including The Ghan and Sal Salis on the Western Australian coastline, Journey Beyond has been adding to and enhancing its visit economy portfolio in recent times.
Last year it began operating the new Monarto Safari Resort in regional South Australia, which is just about to open a safari-style glamping lodge in addition to its more traditional hotel offering, and last week Journey Beyond announced it will acquire the SeaLink portfolio, which includes more accommodation and a number of business events cruising offerings, including The Jackson and Starship Sydney, which both operate on Sydney Harbour.
