First Neon were selected to provide the signage for the Chifley Hotel identification in Wollongong. Externally the signage consists of illuminated signs on the Eastern and Western elevations of the hotel as well as yellow neon lighting outlining architectural features of the hotel.

The signage serves to identify the hotel and incorporates the Hotel Group's Logo and name,  the neon outline "landmarks" the building.

A composite panel material was chosen for the construction of the external signage due to its superior performance in the weather conditions expected due to the proximity to the ocean. 

The individual logo and text elements of translucent acrylic are fitted into the shapes cut-through the composite panel and are internally illuminated. 

This construction produces a striking effect particularly at night as the background is totally opaque creating the illusion of the illuminated sections appearing to float above the strong yellow line.
  
Signage can only be made to certain dimensions, restricted by the building's architecture and of course the authorities, and obviously good design. 

These factors  limit the size of the signage and therefore the legibility from distant viewing. However an illuminated building outline is like a beacon and is visible for miles - well kilometers. This landmark building

outline works well where the structure has a dominant profile on the landscape, which this situation surely has. There is no doubt that distant viewers and even passing ships will be able to point and say " that's the Chifley!"

Neon lighting was chosen for its superior lighting performance, longevity and ease of installation instead of LED. The lighting elements were installed in a metal c- channel to give the light a sharp cut-off creating a well defined line of light, as well as affording mechanical protection.

It is not uncommon to have neon installations still operating 100% - meaning all units are still illuminating, after 70,000 hours and more, and in some instances the transformers that operate the neon have not been replaced either.

Internally the signage consisted of all the hotel room numbers, the level indicators and much of the incidental signage that is needed in any international quality hotel vis-a vis the parking area signage as well as directional and  information signage for the comfort of guests.

First Neon also provided the main reception sign which would be described more as an architectural sign - being composed of specialised materials and segments assembled to give a dramatic presence to the reception area. The individual, high quality paint finished segments are fixed to a mirror background for a striking effect. Mirrors produce a transparent effect around the letters that again gives the impression of the logo and text floating. Obviously full credit to the creativity and expertise of the designer.

First Neon