Expansion ahead for Port Hedland's Walkabout

Port Hedland’s Walkabout Hotel is set to undergo a $20 million, three stage redevelopment, which will upgrade hotel facilities and provide budget accommodation targeting both the industrial and tourism markets.

Developer Westate Capital said it was in the process of lodging a development application with the Town of Port Hedland to expand the hotel from 100 to 200 rooms and upgrade the existing facilities.

The application also includes a 200-room construction camp, which will be converted into budget accommodation once the hotel expansion is completed.

Westate managing director Paul Berresford said costings were being finalised for the project and negotiations were in process to secure off-take agreements which would underpin the redevelopment.

“It’s important to be clear that our project is not merely targeting tourists and other visitors to Port Hedland,” Mr Berresford said.

“The Walkabout is a Pilbara landmark and we are very well aware that the old place is due for an overhaul.

“We intend to provide a facility which the whole community can come and enjoy.”