Chefs Josh and Julie Niland, of St Peter at The Grand National, Paddington, fame will open a new restaurant at The Sundays, Hamilton Island’s new luxury boutique hotel, opening in April 2025.
The Nilands will bring their renowned flair to the island, creating a unique dining experience at The Sundays overlooking Catseye Beach. The new 59-room hotel is designed to redefine luxury and relaxation for families set against the stunning backdrop of the Great Barrier Reef.
The Sundays is Hamilton Island’s newest hotel, adding to luxury hotels qualia and Beach Club and the family-friendly Reef View Hotel and Palm Bungalows.
Drawing inspiration from his experience as a father of four and with his wife, business partner and pastry chef Julie, Josh has crafted a series of menus to embrace the whole family, celebrating togetherness and the joy of sharing meals in the stunning ocean-front setting.
“Julie and I fell in love with the entire vision behind The Sundays” says Josh. “It reflects so much of what we value – bringing people together to create memories in beautiful surroundings. We can’t wait to introduce a dining experience that feels connected to the island and its incredible natural environment.”
The menu will feature Josh’s signature whole-fish ethos while also incorporating a selection of land-based proteins and local ingredients.
“Josh and Julie’s approach to food is nothing short of exceptional,” Hamilton Island acting CEO Nick Dowling, said. “Their creativity and expertise will offer our guests an experience that is uniquely connected to the island’s natural setting.
“We are delighted to welcome Josh and Julie’s family into ours as we embark on an exciting chapter for Hamilton Island. The Sundays marks the beginning of a bold food and beverage strategy, ensuring the island remains a must-visit destination for travellers seeking world-class dining and unforgettable experiences.”
The history of Hamilton
Established in 1982, Hamilton Island has received over $400 million in improvements since it was acquired by the Oatley family of wine-making and yachting fame, in 2003, including the development of the 18-hole golf course on neighbouring Dent Island, designed by five-time British Open Champion Peter Thomson.
Hamilton Island is the Southern Hemisphere’s largest integrated island resort, offering a range of accommodation options, from self-catering holiday homes and apartments to luxury hotels, 20 casual and fine-dining restaurant options, 2 spas, a 300+ berth marina, and over 65 tours and activities.
Hamilton Island is easily accessible via short flights from major Australian East Coast cities, including Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, as well as direct boat transfers from the Queensland mainland. Over 500,000 visitors passed through Hamilton Island Airport in 2023.
Hamilton Island has an abundance of activities, including sunrise yoga, run clubs, and a gym with a range of classes. Set in beautiful natural surrounds, Hamilton Island’s Spa wumurdaylin offers a range of spa treatments, relaxation treatments, and natural therapies.
Hamilton Island also plays host to Hamilton Island Race Week – the largest offshore keelboat regatta in the Southern Hemisphere, the Hamilton Island Endurance Series, as well as Pas de Deux in Paradise – a collaborative project between The Australian Ballet and qualia, running biannually.
Launch offer
To celebrate the announcement, The Sundays is inviting guests to be one of the first to discover this extraordinary dining experience.
Those who book for four or more nights at The Sundays will enjoy 10 per cent off their booking.
Plus, they receive $500 towards their dining experience at the Nilands’ new restaurant.
