At Nationwest Aviation, we have a deep appreciation for local businesses that transform their surroundings and elevate the hospitality experience. Gerald Apartment Hotel in Geraldton is a perfect example of this spirit. What began as a passion project for its owners has now become an award-winning hotel, renowned for its service, quality, and connection to the community.

Grant’s Journey: From Builder to Hotelier

Grant, the visionary behind the Gerald Apartment Hotel, didn’t set out to become a hotelier. With a background as a builder and electrician, he initially focused on revitalising a vacant building he and his

 wife owned in Geraldton. But this practical decision quickly blossomed into a labour of love, one that has since raised the standard of hospitality in the region. “My start in the hotel/hospitality business wasn’t planned,” Grant explains. “I’d always had an interest in hospitality, but it was more about finding a new purpose for a building that needed a serious facelift.”

Recognising a lack of quality accommodations in regional WA, Grant and his wife took a leap of faith, transforming the building into a 4.5-star apartment hotel. They aimed to create a place that would feel right at home in any major city around the world. Confident that their experiences as seasoned travellers would guide them, they set out to build a hotel that reflected everything they valued in a great stay.

Personal Touches and Memorable Experiences

As a builder, Grant was deeply involved in the hotel’s transformation, from the renovation process to overseeing every design detail. His approach was to focus on the guest experience above all else, avoiding the industry standards they disliked. For example, after years of being charged for slow internet on their own travels, they committed to providing fast, free fibre-optic internet for their guests. They included large desks, well-lit bathrooms, and other thoughtful touches that made the Gerald Apartment Hotel a comfortable retreat for modern travellers.

This dedication to quality and guest experience has paid off, earning the hotel multiple awards, including Best Regional Hotel. But for Grant, the most meaningful moments come from personal connections with guests. He recalls a particularly memorable experience with an older Italian gentleman and his wife, who had never gone four-wheel driving. Seeing an opportunity to make their stay special, Grant took them on a beach tour, and they left with unforgettable memories. “He couldn’t stop talking about it,” Grant laughs. The guest later returned with a box of homegrown garlic as a thank-you gift, a gesture that still warms Grant’s heart.

A Vision for Excellence

From the start, Grant’s philosophy was simple: to create a hotel that could comfortably fit into Melbourne, New York, or London, and still impress. This commitment to quality extends beyond the amenities and into the way the Gerald Apartment Hotel integrates with the local community. The hotel supports local businesses and cultural initiatives, ensuring that guests not only experience exceptional hospitality but also gain a genuine connection to Geraldton and its surroundings.

The hotel’s success is driven by a relentless focus on customer service, something Grant and his wife instilled in their team from day one. “Customer service, customer service, and customer service,” he says. This philosophy is reflected in the hotel’s friendly staff, attentive service, and commitment to making every guest feel at home.

Looking Ahead with a Touch of Humour

As Geraldton continues to attract more visitors, Grant sees a bright future for the hotel and its role in meeting the growing demand for quality accommodation in the Midwest. And although he jokes about being ready to retire, he remains committed to seeing the hotel thrive. “I’m ready to step back,” he laughs, “but I’d still love to see the business expand. There’s so much potential here in WA’s hospitality sector.”

For those looking to enter the industry, Grant’s advice is straightforward: “Do your research, make sure you’re not undercapitalised, and plan for the worst-case cashflow scenario. Hospitality can be very rewarding, but you have to be prepared for the long haul.” His journey with the Gerald Apartment Hotel is a powerful example of how passion, hard work, and a touch of humour can transform a building—and a community.

At Nationwest Aviation, we are inspired by Grant’s story. His journey from builder to award-winning hotelier shows that with vision and dedication, it’s possible to create something extraordinary. We’re proud to share his story and look forward to seeing what the future holds for the Gerald Apartment Hotel.