Executive chef Robert Lambert, formerly at the Sheraton in Brisbane, said he was looking forward to introducing diners to the subtle flavours of crocodile and kangaroo, as well as the more familiar taste of Queensland beef, Victorian lamb and fresh seafood.

"A few years ago I did an Aussie-food promotion at the Sheraton in Essen, Germany, and I was amazed at the favourable response," Lamber said.

"We were packed every night, and while the steaks and lamb were certainly popular, we were surprised at the positive reaction to our dishes using the lesser known produce, particularly the crocodile", he said.

A variety of Australian cheeses and wines will also be offered.

Australia has for some time been renowned for the quality of its beef, lamb, seafood and wine. More recent visitors to its shores will also have noticed that crocodile and kangaroo meat is now widely found on menus in fast-food shops as well as fine-dining restaurants.

The hotel will arrange free transportation from anywhere on Phuket for parties of four or more that book in advance.

Suchat Sritama

The Nation