New $68m hotel under way

Work has started on the Moreton Bay-based Comiskey Group’s Aura Hotel, which will be one of Australia’s largest hotel developments.

The ceremonial sod turning took place today within Stockland Aura, as the $68 million project moved into full construction after early earthworks.

Aura Hotel, 10 minutes south of Caloundra, will anchor the city centre precinct, backing onto a future five-hectare South Bank-style parkland.

The venue is expected to open in late 2027 and will create approximately 150 local jobs.

“Breaking ground on Aura Hotel is a huge milestone for us and something we’ve been working towards for a long time,” director Rob Comiskey said.

“With the biggest band room on the Sunshine Coast, capable of hosting up to 2500 guests, we’re delivering a venue that will bring world-class live music to the region.

“This will be the largest venue on the Sunshine Coast and one of the largest in Australia.

“We’ve hosted artists from Prince to Post Malone across our venues, and Aura Hotel will continue that—bringing major acts closer to home.”

Spanning three levels, the venue will have six bars, indoor and alfresco dining, a gaming room and multiple function spaces.

“We’ve put a lot of thought into how this venue looks and feels from the moment you arrive,” Mr Comiskey said.

“It’s designed to have real impact - from the façade through to every space inside.”

Stockland Aura Project Director, Josh Sondergeld said: “Following the start of construction on the Town Centre, this milestone reinforces Aura as a thriving destination.”

Kendall Morton, State Member for Caloundra, added: “This is very exciting for Caloundra.

“We’ve seen the impact the Comiskey Group has had at Eatons Hill, and bringing that same opportunity here is incredibly exciting.

The Comiskey Group also built and operates Sandstone Point Hotel, Dakabin Hotel, Samford Hotel and is developing five-star hotels at North Lakes and Sandstone Point.