Adding even more depth to its rapidly expanding portfolio in Asia Pacific, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, announced an agreement with Metacap Empire Square Pty. Ltd. to open a new-build Westin hotel and residences in Brisbane, the state capital of Queensland, Australia. The Westin Brisbane Empire Square will offer 306 rooms. The new Westin hotel will share a 66-story tower with The Residences at The Westin Brisbane Empire Square - the first internationally branded residential development in Australia. Both the hotel and residences will open in early 2012, marking the return of the Westin brand to this dynamic Australian city.

"We are thrilled to come back to Brisbane with the signing of The Westin Brisbane Empire Square. Brisbane's strong lodging market dynamics, thriving economy and marked increase in tourism arrivals positions the city as a key target destination for many hotel companies," said Miguel Ko, President, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Asia Pacific. "We are also delighted to partner with Metacap Empire Square Pty. Ltd. to introduce the Westin brand to Brisbane, where we will offer guests the services, products and amenities that allow them to relax and rejuvenate in the heart of downtown."

The Westin Brisbane Empire Square will be the brand's third hotel to open in Australia, joining the Westins in Sydney and Melbourne. Westin is also present in Auckland and Fiji and has a hotel scheduled to open in Queenstown in late 2009. Starwood had experienced phenomenal growth in Asia Pacific, where it currently has 136 hotels in its portfolio an additional 80 hotels under development.

"The Westin Brisbane Empire Square will not only re-establish the Westin brand in the vibrant city of Brisbane, but also inspire personal renewal in one of the most prominent developments in the city," said Sue Brush, Senior Vice President, Westin Hotels & Resorts. "Westin provides a sophisticated, refreshing atmosphere and thoughtfully designed amenities and services designed to restore mind and body."

Metacap Empire Square Pty. Ltd. is a private property company established by Newell Palmer Securities, a Sydney base financial advisory firm and Alex Jimenez, a local Brisbane property developer. The company's focus is on prime sites located in Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne.

"The company's strategy is to draw on the top local talent in each of their selected locations and seek strong brand alliances to ensure that each project is an attractive and unique asset. Empire Square is one of the first high-rise developments in Australia to combine offices, hotel and residences and will set new benchmarks," said Jerome Chopard, Director, Newell Palmer Securities.