Fiji and the Pacific Celebrated on the Australasian Stage

Tuesday, 24th November 2025 (Natadola, Fiji): Fiji and the Pacific were showcased with distinction at the 2025 Australasian HM Awards, held on Friday, 21 November at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney.

This year’s honours celebrated the region’s growing influence within the hospitality landscape and highlighted the leadership and talent shaping its future.

The evening’s most prestigious recognition was awarded to Lachlan Walker, Regional General Manager, Fiji and Pacific, IHG Hotels & Resorts, who received the Ashley Spencer Service to the Industry Award. This accolade is reserved for individuals whose long-term contribution, influence, and advocacy have shaped hospitality across Australasia.

Lachlan’s leadership is anchored in people, purpose, and place. With decades of experience across luxury and lifestyle hospitality, his approach has strengthened the identity of Fijian and Pacific hospitality through cultural connection, investment in talent, and a commitment to elevating guest experience. His work across Fiji has brought global attention to the region’s potential, supported future leaders through development pathways, and deepened industry collaboration.

Adding to the region’s success, Akshay Singh, Regional Director of Sales and Marketing, Fiji and Pacific, IHG Hotels & Resorts, was named Sales Associate of the Year. Recognised for his commercial leadership and passion for tourism’s positive impact on Pacific communities, Akshay continues to shape the region’s market presence through strategic growth, industry advocacy, and a commitment to sustainable tourism.

The awards also acknowledged InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa as Highly Commended in the Fijian Hotel of the Year category, reflecting its continued position as one of the region’s most admired luxury resorts.

“This recognition is especially meaningful for our teams across Fiji and the Pacific, I am humbled to be acknowledged alongside Akshay. These awards truly reflect the passion, care and professionalism our colleagues bring to work every day. Their commitment to welcoming guests with genuine Fijian hospitality is what sets us apart. I would like to thank the Hotel Management Awards for this honour, and express my deep appreciation to our owners, the Fiji National Provident Fund, for their continued trust and support. This achievement belongs to all of us.” commented Lachlan Walker, Regional General Manager, Fiji and Pacific, IHG Hotels & Resorts.

The achievements recognised in Sydney build on a year of momentum for Fiji and the Pacific. From commercial leadership and operational excellence to community partnerships and cultural storytelling, the region’s influence continues to expand.

Leaders like Lachlan and Akshay exemplify this progress. Their work reflects a broader movement within the Pacific, one that prioritises developing local talent, strengthening community ties, and nurturing a hospitality offering that is both internationally competitive and deeply rooted in culture.

The 2025 Australasian HM Awards reinforce that the Pacific is not only keeping pace with the region’s most acclaimed destinations, but also helping to define the future direction of hospitality across Australasia.

ENDS

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Media Contact

[Krishnil Prasad, +679 673 3300 +679 998 2641]

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Notes to Editors

About Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course

Natadola Bay Championship Golf Course is Fiji’s premier 18-hole championship course, offering a world-class golf experience set against the breathtaking backdrop of the South Pacific. Blending dramatic coastal scenery with lush rolling pastures, the course features 15 ocean-view holes and a layout that challenges and delights golfers of all skill levels.

Measuring 6,566 metres from the championship tees, the par-72 layout includes up to five tee positions on each hole. The course’s unique design has been recently revitalised by Fijian golf legend Vijay Singh, enhancing its playability and scenic appeal.

Opened in 2009, Natadola Bay has hosted prestigious tournaments including the Fiji International, Fiji Open, Natadola Bay Fiji Classic, and Nomura Cup. Its signature clubhouse, inspired by traditional South Pacific architecture, offers panoramic views over the course and coral coastline—an ideal place to unwind post-round with a meal or drink from the open-air bar and restaurant.

Whether you're chasing a personal best or simply soaking in paradise, Natadola Bay invites you to wash away the everyday—one unforgettable round at a time.

About InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa

Facing one of the world’s best sandy beaches and looking out over the azure waters of a beautiful bay to the expanses of the South Pacific, InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa is a tranquil retreat where elevated service is delivered with Fiji’s famous warmth and generosity.

The award-winning luxury resort is just 55 minutes from Nadi International Airport yet feels remote and secluded. Echoing the layout of a traditional Fijian village, the resort’s rooms and suites are spread out across 35 acres of beachside tropical gardens.

About IHG®

IHG Hotels & Resorts [LON:IHG, NYSE:IHG (ADRs)] is a global hospitality company, with a purpose to provide True Hospitality for Good.

With a family of 18 hotel brands and IHG One Rewards, one of the world's largest hotel loyalty programmes, IHG has over 6,000 open hotels in over 100 countries, and more than 1,800 in the development pipeline.

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