On Wednesday 23 July 2025 at 11:00am, Senator Katy Gallagher and Former ACT Chief Minister, Gary Humphries AO, with Hyatt Hotel Canberra General Manager, Shane Jolly, proudly unveiled a new Canberra Tracks heritage sign at Hyatt Hotel Canberra, commemorating the hotel’s significant contribution to the early development of the Nation’s Capital.

The installation forms part of the Yarralumla Residents Association’s project, “Discovering and Valuing Yarralumla’s Heritage”, and was supported by an ACT Government heritage grant. The initiative seeks to deepen public understanding of the suburb’s cultural and historical importance and its role in shaping the foundation of modern Canberra.

The unveiling was attending by members of the Yarralumla community, media, government officials and staff. Also in attendance was Amy Southwell, the great, great niece of Isabella Southwell, who was the hotel's first manager. Isabel's contribution to the early success of the hotel has been recognised on the new sign.

The heritage sign will join the Canberra Tracks heritage sign network, an ACT Government program highlighting sites of historical and cultural significance across the capital. It is located at the front of the hotel towards Albert Hall.

Main image: L-R Amy Southwell, Minister Katy Gallagher, Hyatt Hotel Canberra General Manager, Shane Jolly, Anne Charlton Bien, Alan Froud, Mr Gary Humphries AO and Peter Pharaoh (Yarralumla Residents Committee).

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