Rushcutters Harbourside Hotel Sydney, the sleek, modern boutique hotel nestled on Rushcutters Bay, this month won the prestigious Australian Hotel Association (NSW) Award for Excellence 2002 in the Best Mid Market range Hotel category. It is managed by Federal Hotels International.

We are delighted with the industry recognition that this award signifies. Said Rushcutters Manager Remko Kroesen. The Hotel is a perfect destination for modern thinking travellers, situated Harbourside and 7 minutes from the CBD. The accolade marks a new maturity for the property and for its surrounding community

We have always aimed for the hotel to be a meeting place with a difference. It is a hub not only for visitors, but also for Sydneys eastern suburbs fraternity, centred around our public spaces. In particular, around our expansive terrace that borders Rushcutters Bay Park.

It now offers vergola protection from the elements, and is a natural extension of our popular New York style bar, our signature restaurant CURVE and adjacent conference facilities Mr Kroesen concluded. CURVES cuisine has been shaped by Head Chef Allan Parrish, and is largely Italian influenced.

The crescent-shaped Rushcutters Harbourside Hotel has 245 rooms, 14 suites, an open rooftop swimming pool, and a recently upgraded gymnasium with steam shower and massage facilities.

Rushcutters Harbourside Hotel also offers the discerning traveller a range of interesting packages including:

A Sailing package with award winning EastSail, including accommodation, breakfast and valet parking, A Stay - and Drive package including accommodation and breakfast, and a BMW compact roadster to drive for the weekend. Federal Hotels International operates five hotels in Malaysia and two hotels in Sydney - Rushcutters Harbourside Hotel and The Grace Hotel in the CBD. The latter was also a finalist in the AHA (NSW) Awards for Excellence in Best Superior Hotel Market category. The awards are testimony to Federal Hotels International continuing commitment to excellence and service, said Kroesen.

For bookings telephone 1800 835300 or e-mail sales@rushcutters.com Visit Rushcutters Harboursides website at www.rushcutters.com

For further media information contact Rea Francis on 96608000

22 March 2002.