Media and property entrepreneur Antony Catalano has further extended his hospitality footprint in Byron Bay with a $17.35 million investment. The deal centers on the Bonobo by Raes project, a luxury apartment and hotel precinct located in the heart of the coastal town. This acquisition marks another significant move for the businessman, who has long maintained a high-profile presence in the region’s prestige real estate market.
The Bonobo by Raes development, a joint venture between developer Podia and Centennial Property Group, features 41 apartment-hotel suites. The site, which spans over 4,000 square metres, was originally acquired during the 2021 pandemic lockdowns for $18.55 million. The project is designed to offer a blend of high-end accommodation and retail space, aiming to replicate the success of other luxury hospitality hubs in Australia.
This expansion comes as the Catalano family continues to integrate their business interests with the Byron Bay tourism sector. Jordy Catalano, the son of Antony Catalano, currently manages the Rae’s hotel brand, which has become a staple of the local luxury market. The new precinct is intended to bring the established Rae’s brand from its original Wategos Beach location into the town’s central business district.
While the project represents a major commercial development for the area, it also highlights the ongoing transformation of Byron Bay into a destination for ultra-luxury tourism. The site has attracted a range of wealthy investors, including prominent figures from the media and property sectors. As the project opens its doors, it remains a focal point for those watching the intersection of regional development and high-end hospitality investment.