The Ville celebrates 40 years

Preparations are well underway for a party four decades in the making, as The Ville Resort-Casino celebrates it’s 40th year as part of the Townsville community.

Originally opening in June 1986 as Sheraton Breakwater Casino, the property has played a
major role in North Queensland’s growth as a tourism destination, and one of the region’s
biggest hospitality employers.

The Ville CEO Tim Richardson said reaching the 40-year milestone was a great opportunity
to reflect on the significant role the precinct has played in the community since it opened.

“For the past four decades, The Ville has been so much more than just a leisure and
entertainment destination for the Townsville community,” Mr Richardson said.

“It’s played a key role in the city’s economic growth, helping to position Townsville and the
broader North Queensland region as a destination for domestic and international travellers
alike.”

“The Ville’s also been pivotal in attracting major conferences, events, and entertainment to
the city; provides valuable support for local community and sporting groups through donations
and sponsorship; and is currently employing over 1,000 locals.”

The iconic hotel has undergone several facelifts over the past four decades, but none quite
as transformational as when it was purchased by Morris Group in 2014.

After a major $45 million redevelopment was completed in 2018, The Ville Resort-Casino was
given a new lease on life, relaunching it to a whole new market of leisure-seekers with vibrant,
resort-style accommodation, and world-class dining outlets.

Since then, Morris Group’s investment in the region has increased further with the completion
of a new luxury accommodation at Pelorus Private Island; major renovations at Orpheus
Island Lodge; and the development of the brand new $80 million five-star hotel, Ardo, located
next door to The Ville.

Founder and Executive Chairman Chris Morris said Morris Group was passionate about
providing unique tourism experiences that celebrate the natural beauty of the region.

“Ever since my first visit, I’ve been in love with North Queensland – there really is no other
place in the world like it,” Mr Morris said.

“Since then, I’ve wanted to build places that really allows people to enjoy the amazing natural
beauty of the region to its fullest, and The Ville has delivered that in spades.

“But it’s also continued to be a place that is really special to the local community, which is
probably the thing we’re most proud of, and why we are committed to continuing to invest in
this region.”

The Ville’s 40th birthday celebrations kick off in the coming weeks with a special installation
on the property that pays tribute to the people, moments, and memories that have helped
shape its legacy.

General Manager of Marketing and Community Kimberley Wilkinson said a full calendar of
events throughout June would provide several opportunities for the community to celebrate
The Ville in their own way.

“The Ville has always been an integral part of this community and its story,” Ms Wilkinson
said.

“For 40 years, locals have celebrated life’s big moments with us and that’s something we’re
incredibly proud of.

“So, this 40th birthday is less about us celebrating, and more about the community gathering
together to share their memories and celebrate everything this precinct has meant to them
over the last four decades.”

Locals who have a special memory or story to share as part of The Ville’s 40-year celebrations
are invited to email[email protected].

Throughout June, The Ville will come alive with a vibrant calendar of events and offers,
marking its ruby jubilee with a month-long celebration for locals and visitors. From exclusive
hotel packages and dining offers to free live entertainment every weekend, The Ville is pulling
out all the stops to celebrate the community that has become so key to its story.

Discover the full range of birthday celebrations and offers atthe-ville.com.au/turns-40/