Today, EVT and Dr Jerry Schwartz and the Schwartz Family Company (SFC) announced Rydges as the new operator of the Hunter Valley Resort, which is currently operated by IHG as Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley. The property is the perfect resort for both adults looking to explore the best of the Hunter Valley region and for families with the most comprehensive collection of fun activities in the region. The property will be relaunched in May as Rydges Resort Hunter Valley.

Rydges Resort Hunter Valley will be the 5th property that EVT manage for the Schwartz Family Company, reaffirming their commitment to EVT. The multi-year partnership also includes a management extension for Rydges World Square Sydney and Rydges Sydney Central.

Perfectly positioned in the heart of one of Australia's most renowned wine regions, Rydges Resort Hunter Valley features:

• 414 guest rooms including villas and suites
• 15 conference rooms and the purpose-built Hunter Valley Conference and Events Centre, located within the resort precinct and accommodating up to 1,600 guests
• Catering for families of all sizes with an exciting collection of facilities and activities within the resort including a waterpark, mini-train, carousel, a converted tug boat, the Water Dragons kids club, pony rides and the new Hunter Valley Kids Cottage, all designed specifically with children in mind
• Renowned Ubika Spa, an 18-hole championship golf course, tennis courts, resort pools, an onsite distillery and brewery, a range of restaurants including the award-winning Redsalt Restaurant, along with the recent addition of equestrian arenas.

The Rydges portfolio of hotels and resorts continues to expand with 45 properties across Australia and New Zealand.

Norman Arundel, EVT Director of Hotels and Resorts, said: “We are thrilled to be appointed to operate another of SFC’s major hospitality assets and extend the management contract of Rydges World Square and Rydges Sydney-central. Hunter Valley Resort is unique and iconic to the region; we are proud to welcome the hotel into the Rydges portfolio. As an Australasian owner-operator, we are recognised for the strength of our commercial results and ability to maximise assets. We have developed a highly effective relationship with Dr Schwartz and his company, a relationship built on mutual trust and strong performance.”

Jerry Schwartz, Director of Schwartz Family Company, said: "We are pleased to partner with EVT once again and are confident they will deliver outstanding results for Rydges Resort Hunter Valley. Being the 5th property under their management, we believe EVT’s experience, local agility and track record of market leading results will bring significant value to the future success of our property."

EVT looks forward to applying its extensive local expertise across food and beverage, conference and events, marketing, distribution and revenue services, to deliver exceptional results for the Schwartz Family Company, whilst providing a truly local experience for guests at Rydges Resort Hunter Valley.