What Makes an Award-Winning Hotel?

While the Awards For Excellence judges are a closely guarded secret, a few clues about what they look for can be found in their comments from previous years.

Descriptions such as “incredible standards”, “stunning” and “modern hospitality at its finest”.

Providing an “experience” is also important. This is about the end result for patrons, as opposed to the bricks and mortar and is evidenced in judging comments related to “exceptional service and attention to detail”.

Another term is “ground breaking” – and the hotels that set a new standard.

The Marion Hotel, which has won two Hotel of The Year Awards, was singled out for the level of quality across all areas of operation - food and beverage, functions, accommodation, retail and gaming.

The Uraidla Hotel featured in several awards, receiving two and a commendation for a third last year. One aspect that was noted – and is similar to the Bridgeport Hotel, was the long-term commitment.

In the case of the Uraidla, it was a seven-year, $6.6 million project that now includes a restaurant, two casual dining areas; two bars; two unique and different function areas; an underground wine tank; an extensive outside area including a gazebo; a café, brewery, and bakery.

The Bridgeport took this to an entirely new level, requiring 11 years of planning and development, as well as a $45-million financial commitment. Judges described it as a true masterpiece and also highlighted “a ground-breaking jobs program for the long-term unemployed in the region.”

In his comments at the awards, AHA|SA General Manager Ian Horne provided a few clues to aspiring award winners, talking about “the incredible standards in food and beverage, service and experience”.

He also noted hotel teams that “continue to lift, innovate and set high standards across all facets of our venues”.

Uraidla Hotel

Bridgeport Hotel