Huge hotel upgrade announced for regional centre

A popular hotel in the historic seaport town of Port Pirie is getting a much-needed upgrade.

Jun 25, 2026, updated Jun 25, 2026
Photo: Supplied
Photo: Supplied

The Ellen Hotel in Port Pirie, a 19-room property on Port Pirie’s scenic foreshore, is undergoing a renovation, owner Sunil Kumar Singh saying the refresh would lead to “a more contemporary, comfortable, and welcoming environment”.

“The refresh focuses on modernising guest rooms, improving common areas, upgrading furnishings and amenities, and enhancing the overall presentation of the hotel,” he said.

“These enhancements, together with the planned property upgrades, will strengthen The Ellen Hotel’s appeal, improve guest satisfaction, and support the hotel’s long-term growth and success.”

Along with co-owner Swati Mittal, Singh has owned the hotel since March. He also operates other accommodation venues, including The Comfort Inn Flinders on Main in Port Pirie.

Singh said high-quality venues like the upgraded Ellen Hotel would benefit the region as a whole, encouraging visitors to stay longer and support local businesses.

“Modern, comfortable accommodation encourages travellers to choose Port Pirie as a destination rather than simply passing through,” he said.

“Quality accommodation also enhances the overall visitor experience, increasing the likelihood that guests will extend their stay, return in the future, and recommend the region to others.

“Visitors staying at The Ellen Hotel contribute to the local economy by spending money at restaurants, cafes, retail businesses, tourism attractions, and service providers throughout the area.”

Singh’s hotels were aligned with the Choice Hotels Asia-Pac Ascend Collection brand.

He said this “partnership strengthens The Ellen Hotel’s market position and enhances the overall guest experience”.

“Being part of a well-recognised international hotel network increases the property’s visibility and credibility, helping us attract a broader range of guests, including corporate travellers, leisure visitors, and members of the Choice Privileges loyalty program.”

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Choice Hotels Asia-Pac CEO Trent Fraser said The Ellen Hotel fit the “elevated guest experience” his brand aims to maintain.

“Franchisee-led growth remains a cornerstone of the company’s development strategy,” he said.

“Seeing existing franchisees reinvest and grow with Choice Hotels speaks to the strength of our franchise network and the confidence owners place in our brands and support platform.”

The Ellen Hotel refresh is expected to be completed over the next six to 12 months, with work carried out in stages to minimise disruption to guests.

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