HOTELS HAVE HEARTS GALA RAISES $900,000 FOR HOMELESSNESS
INDUSTRY LEGEND CELEBRATES 25 YEARS FAREWELL BOB BOURNE
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
PRESIDENT Scott Leach
SENIOR VICE-PRESIDENT GENERAL DIVISION Lyn Humphreys
SENIOR VICE-PRESIDENT ACCOMMODATION
DIVISION Vacant
VICE-PRESIDENT Kim Maloney
SECRETARY/TREASURER Joanne Blair
METRO REPRESENTATIVE Leon Colosimo
METRO REPRESENTATIVE Rob Lees
METRO REPRESENTATIVE Carolyn Kelly
COUNTRY REPRESENTATIVE Michael Starkey
COUNTRY REPRESENTATIVE Gavin Brown
COUNTRY REPRESENTATIVE Desmond Kennedy
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
John Whelan
AA NSW GENERAL MANAGER: STACEY MCBRIDE
CO-CHAIR: RICHARD DOYLE
CO-CHAIR: PATRICK LONGERGAN
BOARD MEMBER: JEROEN MEIJER
BOARD MEMBER: SHAUN O’BRYAN
BOARD MEMBER: SALLY BURGESS
BOARD MEMBER: BERNHARD LANGER
BOARD MEMBER: GLEN BOULTWOOD
BOARD MEMBER: JANE LYONS
BOARD MEMBER: MATT RUBIE
BOARD MEMBER: MARK RONFELDT
BOARD MEMBER: EMMA HYNES
BOARD MEMBER: SCOTT BOYES
BOARD MEMBER: GARETH LONG
BOARD MEMBER: MS. MONTY MAGUIRE
BOARD MEMBER: TISH NYAR
EDITOR Jason Bartlett
MARKETING/ADVERTISING Leone Cruden
JOURNALIST Craig Vaughan
CONTRIBUTORS John Green, Nikki Taylor, Chris Gatfield
DESIGNER Deborah Zorotheos DZ Graphic Design
PRINTING Clark Murphy Print
The feature material in this edition of Hotel News was published by the Australian Hotels Association NSW. Care has been taken with the advertorial content of this issue; any enquiries regarding claims made should be directed to the companies concerned. Hotel News is printed on paper sourced from sustainably-managed forests.
The statements contained in this publication, while based on information believed to be accurate and reliable, are not guaranteed. No liability can be accepted for any error or omission. We reserve the right to reject advertising that does not comply with the AHA NSW’s Code of Practice. Advertising that appears in Hotel News is not subject to endorsement from the AHA NSW.
HOTELS HAVE HEARTS COMMITTEE - STEPHEN HARVEY, JENNY FARRELL, DANIELLE RICHARDSON, JOHN RYAN, PATRICK GALLAGHER, KIM MALONEY AND MARTY SHORT (NOT PICTURED)
CONTENTS
REGULARS
08 PRESIDENT’S COLUMN 11 CEO’S
SPECIAL FEATURES
HOTELS HAVE HEARTS RAISES MORE THAN $900,000 FOR THE HOMELESS
INDUSTRY LEGEND CELEBRATES 25 YEARS
FAREWELL BOB BOURNE
AUSTRALASIAN GAMING EXPO 2024 44 AA CEO MICHAEL JOHNSON RETIRES 46 2024 ACCOMODATION AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE WINNERS
58 WHY JUNEE HOTEL IS BACK FROM THE DEAD 65 AHA NEWCASTLE HUNTER RACE DAY CELEBRATES A DECADE OF FUNDRAISING
HAVE HEARTS COMMITTEE -
HOTELS OPEN THEIR HEARTS TO RAISE OVER $900,000 FOR THE HOMELESS
By Nikki Taylor
The Hotels Have Hearts Gala Dinner returned to Sydney in June raising a record $901,186 to address the increasing number of Australians impacted by homelessness.
Held in the Grand Ballroom of Sydney’s Hilton Hotel on Thursday, 7 June and hosted by comedian Vince Sorrenti, the Hotels Have Hearts Gala Dinner saw almost 600 hoteliers and industry representatives come together to help raise vital funds for St Vincent de Paul Society’s Housing and Homelessness Services.
Having already raised more than $4.5 million since its inception in 2001, and following a six-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the success of the 2024 event takes the total amount raised to more than $5 million.
“In a world where we can easily take our comforts and security for granted, giving back to those who are vulnerable is not just an act of charity, but a profound expression of our shared humanity,” Hotels Have Hearts Chairman Kim Maloney, OAM said.
“It could easily be you, me, or our loved ones in any situation where we need help and that’s where we are lucky to have our friends at Vinnie’s able to step in and lend a hand.”
Funds raised by Hotels Have Hearts have previously been used to help fund Vinnie’s Matthew Talbot Hostel - which provides refuge for men - and Vincentian House, an inner-city Vinnie’s service for women and families.
The gala dinner is one of the hospitality industry’s premier fundraising events and is supported by the Australian Hotels Association.
“Through fundraising events like Hotels Have Hearts - and thousands of smaller ones held in pubs across NSW - hoteliers work to ensure those in our communities who fall behind, are not left behind,” AHA NSW President Scott Leach said.
“The NSW hotel industry believes in a society where you can count on your mates and doesn’t just offer a hand out, but wants to inspire and assist with a hand-up.”
“In a world where we can easily take our comforts and security for granted, giving back to those who are vulnerable is not just an act of charity, but a profound expression of our shared humanity”
– Hotels Have
Hearts Chairman
Kim Maloney, OAM
HOTELS
STEPHEN HARVEY, JENNY FARRELL, DANIELLE RICHARDSON, JOHN RYAN, PATRICK GALLAGHER, KIM MALONEY AND MARTY SHORT (NOT PICTURED)
“Through fundraising events like Hotels Have Hearts - and thousands of smaller ones held in pubs across NSW - hoteliers work to ensure those in our communities who fall behind, are not left behind”
– AHA NSW President Scott Leach
THE ‘FOREIGN AFFAIRS MINISTER’ CELEBRATES 25 YEARS OF SERVICE
By Craig Vaughan
She is a former deputy principal who left the classroom to keep the larger, but sometimes as poorly behaved, patrons of Oatley pub in line.
She is a listener and a consensus builder.
An inspiration to female hoteliers and the queen of the international study tour.
And this year Senior Vice-President Lyn Humphreys celebrates 25 years in leadership roles at AHA NSW.
Lyn is a second-generation publican who has run The Oatley Hotel since 1990.
She attended her first AHA NSW Sub-Branch meeting with her late father John in the early 1990s and was made a Delegate in 1999.
She was unanimously elected to the Executive in 2003 and in 2006 was made Senior Vice-President, a position she still holds today.
Lyn has served under two presidents - John Thorpe and Scott Leach - and has been a member of just about every AHA NSW committee.
In 2014 she was made an AHA NSW Life Member and is colloquially referred to as the ‘Foreign Affairs Minister’.
AHA NSW President Scott Leach said Lyn brings more much than just a laundry list of achievements to the role of Senior Vice President.
“She is an acute intellect, a passionate political voyeur, an advocate for the role of women in our industry and has a tireless commitment to bringing people together in meetings and social events,” said Leach.
“And Lyn's study tours are amongst the most popular events the Association provides for members.
“She has a sense of calmness in a storm, speaks truth to power with ease and possesses the X factor – hers is a stewardship of responsibility.
“She is a guide, an advisor and is always loyal to her AHA.
“It’s been my pleasure and privilege to serve with Lyn over the past 16 years as President and I look forward to seeing her legacy grow as the years unfold.”
In an earlier interview with Hotel News, Lyn Humphreys explained that she came from a pub family, but got into the game almost by accident.
Her father John Humphreys was a milkman who sold his milk run to take over the lease of The Invicta Hotel in Surry Hills in 1974.
John was the licensee at The Invicta - which Tooth and Co eventually sold - until 1977 when he and wife Jean purchased the lease, and later the freehold, on The Oatley Hotel.
Lyn said her mum was originally reluctant to let her daughter work in the public bar.
“That lasted until there was a staff strike in the late 70s and it was a case of ‘all hands on deck’,” Humphreys told Hotel News.
“And I was hooked from then on.”
Lyn trained and worked as a teacher and a Deputy Principal, but kept up weekend shifts at the hotel.
In 1990 her brother left to go overseas and she told her parents she would quit and take on the role of full-time manager.
“My father asked how I would be able to handle drunks on a Friday night and that was like a red rag to a bull,” said Lyn.
“I went about proving them wrong and I went about transforming
an all-male public bar to the family venue it is today.”
“But once they realised I was committed my parents were 100 per cent behind me.
“Their hard work was inspiring and it was actually their belief in the importance of AHA NSW that brought me to my first SubBranch meeting at Northies Cronulla,” she said.
When Lyn was made an AHA NSW Life Member in 2014 she was introduced by her long-time friend and AHA legend the late, great Phil Webster.
Webster, who passed away in 2022, told the crowd of gathered hoteliers he sat next to Lyn at her first AHA Council meeting and it was the beginning of a beautiful friendship.
“Lyn works tirelessly for the organisation and always had,” said Webster at the time.
“She served on just about every committee AHA NSW has – and she’s chaired several of them.
“I cannot think of anyone more worthy of this recognition than Lyn Humphreys. Not only is she a colleague I work closely with, she’s my best mate.”
When she received the award and reflected on her career, Lyn thanked her husband Phil and her son Chris, who also works at The Oatley Hotel, for their support over the years.
“The AHA is a very rewarding network of colleagues, competitors and friends,” Humphreys said at the time.
“It’s given me the opportunity to grow, not only as an operator but as a person. I have loved every minute of it and am so proud to be a part of this group of people.”
Lyn’s husband Phil Mogg said he also appreciated AHA NSW and all the events Lyn gets to attend.
“It keeps her sane and gives her a bit of breathing space,” he said.
“She is very busy and we are proud of what she has accomplished.”
Humphreys was also recently made a Melvin Jones Fellow by the Lions Clubs International Foundation.
She received the prestigious honour for “dedicated Humanitarian Services” after decades of fundraising, community support and other work.
The award is the highest form of recognition given out by the global foundation and is named after is founder Melvin Jones.
It is given to “outstanding” individuals that “embody humanitarian ideas consistent with the nature and purpose of Lionism.”
“She is an acute intellect, a passionate political voyeur, an advocate for the role of women in our industry and has a tireless commitment to bringing people together in meetings and social events,”
– Scott Leach
AHA NSW SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT LYN HUMPHREYS PRESENTS AT THE AHA NSW AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE..
70S NIGHT AT OATLEY HOTEL.
JEAN, LYN AND JOHN HUMPHREYS AT THE AHA NSW LIFE MEMBERS LUNCH.
SCOTT LEACH, LYN HUMPHREYS AND THE LATE PHIL WEBSTER.
SHORT-TERM MIGRATION ‘FIXES’
A THREAT TO HOTELS
BY DAVID BASHEER, AHA SOUTH AUSTRALIA PRESIDENT AND AHA NATIONAL SENIOR VICE-PRESIDENT
I have handed this edition’s column over to my South Australian counterpart David Basheer for his take on the migration issue which is affecting all publicans – especially those in regional areas.
- AHA NSW President Scott Leach
Thanks Scott, for the opportunity to address AHA NSW members directly in your column.
It’s important to note, the next Federal Election has taken on added significance for AHA members, as both major parties have targeted migration as key policy areas.
As Scott and your NSW executive are well aware, these policies have the potential to further reduce our employment pool.
To examine the need to future-proof our sector, projections are that Australia will require an extra 26,000 cooks and chefs alone over the next 10 years. Members fully understand we are not starting that journey from a strong base.
Additionally, we will require an extra 12,000 restaurant, accommodation and hotel managers - all of which are roles that are difficult to fill today.
Alarmingly for our industry, cooking apprenticeships have dropped below pre-COVID levels. In September 2023, there were only 2,760 new apprenticeships, compared to 4,255 apprenticeship commencements in September 2021.
The drop in traineeships in that period has been even greater.
What needs to be done
As the gap in our labour force needs deepens, the AHA believes several critical measures are essential to prevent the inevitable black hole.
Up until 2017, employer-sponsored migrants - either temporary or permanent - were approved for virtually any occupation, provided there was a proven skill need. This programme was incredibly responsive to fill the skill gaps, particularly when it existed in local or regional areas.
As it stands today, the current criteria relies upon Canberra
determining a list of assessed skill shortages which covers the entire nation.
And, as any member who has attempted to access this system quickly learns, it is a costly and complex process that lacks any employer certainty of a positive outcome.
The current ‘national-only’ approach discriminates against smaller cities like Adelaide in South Australia and Newcastle in NSW, and absolutely against our regions nationwide.
Wages are likely to be lower in these regions, which hurts the migration criteria. But that fails to take into account this will still deliver similar economic outcomes for the immigrant, given cheaper rents and lower cost of living pressures.
Meeting our future work needs is not isolated to migration. We are suffering from the curious decision to remove the Government-funded apprenticeship and trainee incentives, along with the reduction in the number of publicly-funded students undertaking hospitality qualifications.
The AHA would welcome a better linkage with schools, so training can commence in the school year, allowing apprentices to be completed at a younger age. And, as you would be aware, the AHA has lobbied at the national and state levels relentlessly for the four-year apprenticeships - a relic of a bygone erato be modernised without ‘dumbing down’ the value of the qualification.
Backpackers
To make matters worse, the Federal Government has commenced consultation on scrapping the requirement for backpackers to work in regional areas for a minimum of 88 days.
This would deliver another major blow to country Australia which desperately needs to attract employees, not to mention the hole it will leave in small, regional economies.
On a more positive note, the Government has rejected a suggestion to cap the backpackers visa to only one year. Finally, overseas students are an important part of our workforce. There is a mood to reduce this sector to a ‘more sustainable level.’
Not only are there moves to reduce visa numbers, but to place
more barriers in place, such as increasing international visa fees from $710 to $1600 - the highest in the world.
Some people seem to have forgotten international students not only form an important part of our workforce, but also our tourism economy.
For example, in South Australia, Study Adelaide has revealed 20% of seats on international flights are passengers visiting relatives. Admittedly, not all those relatives are students, but mum, dad, brothers and sisters visiting their family members are a huge part of that.
Of course, these family visitors don’t stay at the student accommodation halls or eat in their food areas. They book hotel rooms and restaurants during their stay – we all benefit.
Getting migration settings right offers both short-term - but more critically longer term - benefits in getting the system working for industry. The current ‘one size fits all’ approach is hurting, rather than assisting our labour crisis.
This is something we will continue to work with Government on until we strike the right balance for members and workers alike.
“To examine the need to future-proof our sector, projections are that Australia will require an extra 26,000 cooks and chefs alone over the next 10 years. Members fully understand we are not starting that journey from a strong base”
– David Basheer
Ready, Set, Grow.
Hotel Industry Specialists and proud partners of AHA NSW for over 25 years.
Transform your business with the help of our Hotel specialists, dedicated to connecting you with solutions that meet the unique needs of your business. We take the time to get to know you, share valuable insights and offer a range of innovative banking solutions to help your business prosper.
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0401 679 808 vandewaterb@stgeorge.com.au
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0435 434 275 fongf@stgeorge.com.au
Benjamin Edwards Relationship Director
0466 948 947 ben.edwards@stgeorge.com.au
Scott Buffier Relationship Director Hunter Region Specialist 0412 251 202 scott.buffier@stgeorge.com.au
Patrick Lindsay Relationship Director
0466 467 665 patrick.lindsay@stgeorge.com.au
Chris Haralambous Relationship Director
0481 470 243 chris.haralambous@stgeorge.com.au
Proud Partner of AHA NSW for over 25 Years
CEO UPDATE
BY JOHN WHELAN, AHA NSW CEO
Australasian Gaming Expo 2024
Well, it’s that time of year again and there’s no doubt many hoteliers will be heading to the Australasian Gaming Expo down at the International Convention Centre at Darling Harbour on 13 August.
For more than 30 years now, the AGE has traditionally marked a busy time for our industry, with many regional hoteliers and their partners taking the chance to come to Sydney, attend the expo with its more than 200 exhibits, meet with sponsors and partners and catch up with fellow publicans over a beer or a bite to eat.
The AGE also coincides with the August AHA NSW Council meeting - the perfect chance for your delegates from right across NSW to be briefed on the latest issues impacting our sector.
This edition of Hotel News marks the importance of the AGE, with several pages of coverage dedicated to the event.
I look forward to seeing you during AGE week before we head into the busy Spring and Summer periods.
Awards Season 2024
Speaking of which, Awards season is well and truly underway at AHA NSW and our sister association Accommodation Australia NSW.
I recently had the pleasure of attending the Accommodation Association NSW Awards for Excellence, where I saw first-hand the top quality of our accommodation venues.
It was a fantastic night with a record-breaking 354 finalists across 38 categories – just over a year after the formation of Accommodation Australia. There were world-class winners including the top gong for metropolitan deluxe hotel of the year going to Capella Sydney, while regional deluxe hotel of the year went to Spicers Sangoma Retreat for the second year running.
A special thank you to keynote speaker - Minister for Jobs, Tourism, Live Music and the Night time Economy, Roads, the Arts and Special Minister of State John Graham, who impressed all with his knowledge of the tourism and accommodation sectors – and to NSW Premier Chris Minns who spoke via video link congratulating finalists as the ceremony kicked off.
Safe to say a great night was had by all – and you can see all the winners in this edition of Hotel News.
I should also use this time to pay tribute to outgoing Accommodation Australia CEO Michael Johnson - who recently announced his retirement. Michael is a true gentleman whose
dedication to the accommodation sector for more than 40 years was obvious to all who came in contact with him. I wish Michael and his family all the best for the future.
Of course, the awards focus for hoteliers now is the AHA NSW Awards for Excellence which will be held on Tuesday, 29 October 2024 at Randwick Racecourse.
We’ve received a huge 888 nominations this year, so its set to be another record-breaking event at what is a truly a spectacular setting.
Farewell Bob Bourne
All too sadly, I finish this column with a farewell to one of our industry greats. Former AHA NSW President Bob Bourne passed away recently during a trip to Spain with partner Elissa.
Bob was a one of a kind and helped shape the NSW hotel industry into what we have today.
There is a special tribute to Bob in this edition of Hotel News.
RICHARD DOYLE (CO-CHAIR AA NSW) AND MINISTER JOHN GRAHAM MLC.
When you play together it always feels like a win!
CONNECT, COLLABORATE, INNOVATE: THE AUSTRALASIAN GAMING EXPO RETURNS TO SYDNEY
As the gaming and hospitality industries continue to evolve, one event stands out as a must-attend for all industry professionals: the Australasian Gaming Expo (AGE). Scheduled to take place from August 13 to 15 at the ICC Sydney, this year's expo promises to be a landmark event filled with innovation, networking, and invaluable insights.
With more than three decades of history, the Australasian Gaming Expo is not just an exhibition; it's a comprehensive experience designed to provide attendees with deep insights into the latest industry trends and technologies.
Featuring more than 200 exhibitors, this year’s AGE will showcase new companies including Hello Fresh Australia, Ipixel Leds, and Onyx Gaming, showcasing a broad spectrum of products and services ranging from food and beverage solutions to cutting-edge gaming equipment and technology.
The diversity of exhibitors at AGE 2024 ensures something for everyone. If you're looking for the latest in sustainable venue design, commercial kitchen equipment or advanced point-ofsale systems, you'll find it at the expo. This variety not only highlights the breadth of the industry but also provides a unique opportunity for attendees to explore a wide range of solutions under one roof.
One of the Australasian Gaming Expo's core strengths is its focus on networking. The event provides a unique platform for industry professionals to meet new suppliers, catch up with colleagues and explore potential collaborations. The AGE Networking Lounge and events are designed to facilitate meaningful connections and discussions.
In addition to networking, AGE 2024 offers a robust education program featuring thought-provoking seminars led by industry pioneers. These seminars will cover customer experience enhancements, regulatory compliance, digital transformation and sustainable practices. Attendees can engage in interactive Q&A sessions and panel discussions, fostering lively debates and the exchange of ideas.
AGE 2024 is more than just an event; it's a gateway to exploring the future of gaming and hospitality. Attendees can expect to leave with actionable insights and new connections which will help their businesses thrive in an ever-evolving landscape.
Get ready. The countdown to AGE 2024 has begun.
Visit www.austgamingexpo.com to secure your attendance and discover the innovations that will drive the future of gaming and hospitality. Don't miss the opportunity to be part of this influential event and take your business to new heights.
COME SEE OUR ALL-STAR LINEUP!
This AGE, we’re bringing the greatest variety show with an all-star cast!
Step right up and see Super Grand Star, Werewolf Wild, Cash Spark, Big Fu Cash Bats, and Jackpot Carnival Deluxe.
Also in our star line-up are new games for Mighty Genie, Cash Express Luxury Line and the mighty jackpots for Dragon Link on MarsX.
Plus, there’s a couple of big stars waiting in the wings too.
We’ve got the variety you need – see you at AGE.
IGT TURNS UP THE HEAT AT AGE 2024
IGT is set to turn up the heat at the 2024 Australasian Gaming Expo further strengthening its locally focused solutions strategy backed by IGT’s global strength. A scorching portfolio comprising of innovative games, hardware and systems solutions will be on show, all designed to elevate player entertainment and revenues.
IGT’s game line-up will deliver new gameplay concepts and a range of volatilities to enhance the gameplay experience for hotel players including:
• Pot of Gold Cash Pot – an evolution of IGT’s successful Pot of Gold, with an enhanced Hold ‘N’ Spin bonus feature
• Fortune Koi – a new SAP series offering an innovative take on Hold ‘N’ Spin gameplay with a multiplier variation and different math model for each game title
• Eternal Riches – features popular Hold ‘N’ Spin mechanics with the addition of a super symbol for more chances to win
• Plus, IGT will reveal a new red hot game series at the show set to sizzle!
In addition, visitors can experience the latest IGT Advantage Club innovations - including developments in the cashless and systems-based jackpots space, which are designed to provide a frictionless customer experience, efficiency and performance across a venue’s gaming room.
“We are excited to welcome customers on stand at AGE 2024 to experience our latest innovations first-hand. The show provides the perfect platform to unveil our suite of solutions across games, hardware, systems, and services - along with a sneak peek of what we have in store for future game development,” Head of Marketing, IGT Asia Pacific Lisa Colella said.
“Our new portfolio reinforces our commitment to providing solutions that are diverse, dynamic and have a wider player appeal, ticking all the boxes for the venues.”
DISCOVER THE FUTURE OF GAMING WITH LIGHT & WONDER AT AGE 2024
Get ready to experience some of our most thrilling and topperforming games at AGE:
Introducing even more Dragon Train!
Since its release, Dragon Train has experienced phenomenal success in the Australian market and around the world!! Which is why we decided to create more Dragon Train!
New Dragon Train Games: Force of Fortune and Here Comes Cai Shen
Packed with enhanced Hold & Spin features and exciting visuals for the Australian player. With a double dose of the Hold & Spin mechanic, Dragon Train games 5 and 6 are set to elevate your gaming floor to new heights.
Are you ready to be transported to another world with Jewel of the Dragon?
Captivating players with its blend of myth, mystery, and ancient tradition, Jewel of the Dragon features the exhilarating Hold & Spin and Symbol Reveal free games.
Hottest new product of the year!
A new game is set to be unveiled at AGE. Join us at booth #190 at AGE and be the first to experience the cutting-edge innovations that Light & Wonder has to offer.
If you'd like to learn more or get in contact with us for a demo now, check out our website: https://explore.lnw.com/gaming/ australia/.
About Light & Wonder
Light and Wonder creates unforgettable experiences that form lasting connections with players, wherever they choose to engage.
AGE is just around the corner, it's time to dive in and learn what show-stopping games, hardware and systems solutions we're excited to showcase. Follow Us on LinkedIn: Light & Wonder
IMAGINE THE POWER OF ONE TOTAL VENUE SOLUTION.
Managing your venue can be full of challenges and stressful at times. Banktech brings together all the smarts you need in one total venue solution to save you time, cost and stress.
Integration saves time and hours from your roster
Smart devices such as automated cashier safes and cash redemption terminals have revolutionised gaming payouts across venues. These have helped remove the need for rostering staff for manual cash payouts.
The same applies to the use of cash recyclers in speeding up gaming clearances and balancing your safe. These saved hours can help you reduce labour costs or redirect your staff to looking after your customers.
Banktech’s QuickPay Cash Redemption Terminals has also helped make life easier for venue managers and more convenient for customers, making payouts quicker and easier. Visitors to this year’s AGE will have the opportunity to take advantage of a special show offer on QuickPay 15” colour touch screen CRTs. The saving is significant and of course, dependent on your state and current gaming system.
One solution across your venue and group is the secret to saving time, cost and stress.
So, while there are a number of individual solutions to saving time, cost, and stress the real answer lies in being able to bring all the tech smarts together so you have complete visibility over your operations.
OmniVISION is Banktech’s online portal that allows users to check everything from cash levels in their devices to how their gaming floor is performing at any given time. This allows you the peace of mind to be able to check in whenever you want.
To find out how you can save time, cost and stress in running your venue, call Banktech on 1800 08 09 10 or visit Banktech and UTOPIA Gaming Systems at this year’s AGE on Stand 310, to see the latest in integrated smart tech helping drive efficiencies in venues.
LEAVING THINGS A LITTLE BETTER THAN I FOUND THEM
By Craig Vaughan
After more than five years leading the nation’s peak industry bodies for accommodation, Accommodation Australia CEO Michael Johnson has announced his retirement.
Johnson spent four years as national and NSW head of Tourism Accommodation Australia and, after leading the long amalgamation process, was appointed CEO of Accommodation Australia in January 2023.
Accommodation Australia Chair David Mansfield said he respected Johnson’s decision to hand over the reins and enjoy more time with family and friends after 45 years in the industry.
“Michael will be sadly missed by his team and the many stakeholders he works closely with,” said Mansfield.
“He has made a significant contribution to Accommodation Australia and to the industry more broadly over many years.
“He did an amazing job pulling the two associations together over the past five years and was instrumental in creating a culture that will serve as a strong foundation well into the future.
“Michael is one of the industry’s true nice guys. His honesty, hard work and generous nature will be hard to replace. We wish him the best for his retirement.”
What
follows is Michael’s final column for Hotel News.
When you are in the midst of your working life, scrambling from day to day, it feels like it will go on forever.
But when the end actually arrives, you look back and it all seems to have gone by in a flash.
After more than 40 years working in hotels and the last five years leading the nation’s peak industry bodies for accommodation, I have decided my time has come.
At the end of July, I will officially hand over the reins of Accommodation Australia to the next generation.
I plan to spend more time with family and friends and enjoy life on the other side of the check-in counter.
I do so happy in the knowledge that I leave our Association - and
our industry at large - in a better position than when I found them.
I took on the role of NSW and National head of Tourism Accommodation Australia in May 2019.
After four decades working my way through just about every role in hotels, I saw it as a way to give back to the industry which had given me so much career satisfaction and joy.
I had no idea what a ride it would become.
My arrival at TAA seemed to coincide with disaster. In October 2019 devastating bushfires began tearing up and down the east coast and they lasted for months.
They took lives and homes and starved regional venues in their prime New Year period.
Just as the smoke seemed to clear, COVID 19 reared its head.
The global pandemic, and the travel bans and border closures and restrictions and fear that came with it, crippled our industry in a way we could not have imagined.
These were huge challenges, driven by forces beyond our control, and there was no way to predict when we would return to something resembling normal.
I learnt fast in those early days of COVID, and to this day I am proud of the work we did.
TAA worked tirelessly on local and national solutions. Our efforts to open up hospitality venues as soon as possible and gain extra support once we did were critical.
During our darkest days, as most hotels sat empty and we assisted with makeshift quarantine sites, it became abundantly clear to me our industry needed a united voice.
And out of the worst of years, came something great.
At the start of the pandemic TAA represented roughly half the hotels in the country, with a focus on Sydney and Melbourne, while the other half of the nation’s accommodation hotels –particularly those smaller properties in regions - were represented by the AAoA.
For many years we competed, using resources better spent on members to out-perform each other
We tussled in the media, competed for time with politicians and policy makers, created confusion with differing views and fought for members.
There was always talk of a merger – but egos and other complications constantly got in the way.
It was a stop-start process until the pandemic came, and everyone got a wake-up call. Let’s not waste an international crisis.
MICHAEL JOHNSON AND PM ANTHONY ALBANESE.
The process to merge TAA and the AAoA was slow and difficult at times.
All up it took three years, including a member’s vote, an ACCC ruling and reams and reams of red tape.
But looking back now – the effort was well worth it.
Accommodation Australia now has more than 1400-member properties - equating to roughly 140,000 rooms - spread across all Australian states and territories.
Our members range from small regional motels, caravan parks, serviced apartments, timeshare properties and bed and breakfasts to large independent hotels and venues operated by local and international chains.
We built a new association from scratch, we focused on putting members first - and together we led our industry back to recovery.
Every graph I look at now shows that for the first time, in a long time, everything in the accommodation sector is trending in the right direction.
There are still issues - with migration, staffing and short-term rental accommodation in particular - but when you look back just 12 months there is so much to be optimistic about.
I’m sure you will appreciate this has not been an easy decision. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time representing the industry.
I feel humbled to have been the first CEO of Accommodation Australia after achieving amalgamation last year and it remains one of my career’s greatest highlights.
However, after five years with the AHA, 40 years in hotels and five
years as a diesel mechanic the time is right for me to spend more time with family and friends.
It is very hard to sum up a career in a single column. To condense the highs and lows of 45-years working in our ever-changing industry into a few paragraphs.
But I would like to take this opportunity to say a big “thank you” to all of you for your support over the past five years, particularly as we navigated our way through COVID and then working through the idiosyncrasies of the amalgamation.
A special mention to David Mansfield, Sean Hunt, Bruce Copland, Martin Ferguson, Stephen Ferguson and Jason Bartlett for your direction, help and efforts to get us to where we are today.
Whilst my official last day is the 31st of July I will continue to support the association and industry as needed, particularly settling in my replacement.
And I wish you and our association the very best for the future.
“I plan to spend more time with family and friends and enjoy life on the other side of the check-in counter. And I do so happy in the knowledge that I leave our Association - and our industry at large - in a better position than when I found them.”
ACCOMMODATION AUSTRALIA NSW PARTNERS
RECORDS SMASHED AT ACCOMMODATION INDUSTRY’S NIGHT OF NIGHTS
Records were smashed at this year’s illustrious Accommodation Australia NSW Awards for Excellence as the state’s best properties and operators were celebrated before a crowd of more than 700 guests.
Attended by political leaders including NSW Minister for Jobs and Tourism, Minister for the Arts, Minister for Music and the Night-time Economy, Minister for Roads, Special Minister of State and Deputy Leader of the Government in the Legislative Council The Hon. John Graham, MLC, VIP guests, and industry operators, the star-studded event was held at The Fullerton Hotel in Sydney’s CBD on Thursday, 18 July.
Celebrating twelve months since the formation of Accommodation Australia NSW, the event saw a record breaking 354 finalists across 38 categories, including the newly launched Workplace Health and Wellbeing Property of the Year, Best Outdoor Experience (including rooftop bars), and Best Casual Dining Experience Awards.
Accommodation Australia NSW Co-Chair Richard Doyle described the event as a perfect way to celebrate hotels and operators who are every year leading the way in innovation, inspiration, staffing and service.
“It has been twelve months since the creation of Accommodation Australia NSW and what a first year it has been,” he said.
“We have built a new association with a focus on putting the needs of members first, and we are very proud of everyone here tonight and what they have achieved for both themselves and our industry overall.”
Likewise, Co-Chair Patrick Lonergan said the level of talent in the room was testament to the stellar contribution NSW hotels make to the country’s annual tourism economy.
“Our industry employs more than 400,000 people and generates more than $17 billion each year,” he said.
“Looking at the calibre of talent here tonight, I have no doubt our industry will continue to flourish for years to come.”
Winners on the night included Capella Sydney named winner of the prestigious Metropolitan Deluxe Hotel of the Year and Spicers Sangoma Retreat taking the title of Regional Deluxe Hotel of the Year for the second consecutive year.
In the Superior Hotel of the Year category, Hilton Sydney took top honours for Metropolitan, while Rydges Resort Hunter Valley took the Regional title as well as the inaugural Workplace Health and Wellbeing Property of the Year Award and Best Innovation Project.
In the all-important ‘people awards’, it was Joanna Carruthers of Rydges Sydney Airport taking out Executive of the Year, while Conference and Events Talent of the Year went to Tegan Skyllas of Rydges Sydney Central.
Excellence in food and beverage was also celebrated with Chef of the Year going to Elements of Byron’s Ebony Baker, and Food and Beverage Talent of the Year won by Vinura de Silva of Oaks Cypress Lakes Resort.
Restaurant of the Year (Deluxe Hotels) was awarded to Restaurant Amara at Spicers Sangoma Retreat, while the Midrange/Superior award went to Glass Brasserie at Hilton Sydney. Best Casual Dining Experience was won by Abode Bistro.Bar at PARKROYAL Darling Harbour.
The Bar at InterContinental Sydney Double Bay was awarded Bar of the Year (Deluxe Hotels), while Jackalberry at Hyatt Regency Sydney won the Mid-Range – Superior category.
Another new award launched this year was Best Outdoor Experience (Including Rooftop Bars). The category was won byAster at InterContinental Sydney, while Best Health Spa and Wellness Experience was taken out by Crown Spa at Crown Towers Sydney for the third consecutive year and Redeveloped/ Refurbished Property of the Year was awarded to Bells at Killcare Boutique Hotel, Restaurant & Spa.
Accommodation Australia NSW General Manager Stacey McBride said it was fantastic one year post amalgamation to see the industry come together in such unified fashion.
“The exceptional level of talent we have is what makes the NSW accommodation industry world-class,” she said.
“To see a group of people with such skill, talent, and dedication together under one roof celebrating each other’s accomplishments speaks volumes and I congratulate every finalist and winner on their hard work over the past year.”
BEST INNOVATION PROJECT
Rydges Resort Hunter Valley
SPONSORED BY SYDNEY MORNING HERALD
OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT IN TRAINING
Four Seasons Sydney
SPONSORED BY TAFE NSW
OUTSTANDING COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTION
Spicers Guesthouse
SPONSORED BY KENO
BEST ENVIRONMENTAL/SUSTAINABILITY PRACTICES
Crystalbrook Byron
SPONSORED BY SAMSUNG
WORKPLACE HEALTH AND WELLBEING PROPERTY OF THE YEAR
Rydges Resort Hunter Valley
SPONSORED BY HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY INSURANCE
DISABILITY INCLUSION & ACCESS AWARD
Hotel Etico
SPONSORED BY ASURIA AUSTRALIA
PARTNERS & ASSOCIATE MEMBERS
ACCOMMODATION TO
ACCOMMODATION BOOKING.COM
Web: booking.com
Contact: Melissa Ellison
Email: melissa.ellison@booking.com
ACCOUNTING
PITCHER PARTNERS
Web: www.pitchernewcastle.com.au
Contact: Derrick Eube
Phone: 02 4923 4000
Email: derrick.eube@pitchernewcastle.com.au
QUANTACO
Web: www.quantaco.co
Contact: Mitchell Stone Phone 028346 6000
Email mitchell@quantaco.co
WIRELY
Web: www.wirely.com.au
Contact: Nick Chernin
Phone: 0411 329 397
Email: nick.chernin@wirely.com.au
HOTEL ACCOUNTANTS PTY LTD
Web: www.hotelaccountants.com.au
Contact: John Morrison
Phone: 02 9922 1444
Email: john@hotelaccountants.com.au
HARDMAN WAYNE CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS
Contact: Will Hardman
Phone: 02 8539 7702
Email: will.hardman@larosahardman.com
PROSPERITY ADVISERS GROUP
Web: www.prosperity.com.au
Contact: Colin Samuel Phone: 02 8262 8700
Email: csamuel@prosperity.com.au
ATM & EFTPOS SUPPLIERS
ST. GEORGE BANK
Web: www.stgeorge.com.au
Contact: Barry Van-de-Water Phone: 0401 679 808
Email: vandewaterb@stgeorge.com.au
BANKTECH AUSTRALIA
Web: www.banktech.com.au
Contact: Henry Kiwarkis
Phone: 1800 08 09 10
Email: henryk@banktech.com.au
NCR ATLEOS
Web: www.ncratleos.com
Contact: Neil Pugsley
Phone: 0408 243 518
Email: neil.pugsley@ncratleos.com
NEXT PAYMENTS
Web: www.nextpayments.com.au
Contact: Peter Walford
Phone: 1300 659 918
Email: info@nextpayments.com.au
AUDIO VISUAL & LIGHTING
BIG SCREEN VIDEO
Web: www.bigscreenvideo.com.au
Contact: Andrew Lee
Phone: 0414 407 718
Email: andrew@bigscreenvideo.com.au
ENCORE EVENT TECHNOLOGIES
Web: www.encore-anzpac.com
Contact: Michael Magafa
Phone: 02 9556 8888
Email: Michael.Magafa@encore-anzpac.com
JANDS PTY LTD
Web: jands.com.au
Contact: Ilias Sintrikos
Phone: 0408 506 620
Email: isintrikos@jands.com.au
NSW COLOUR TV COMPANY
Web: www.australiancolourtv.com.au
Contact: Danny Grant
Phone: 02 4957 8355
Email: danny@australiancolourtv.com.au
BEVERAGES
CAMPARI AUSTRALIA
Web: www.camparigroup.com
Contact: Ben Hallett
Phone: 0407 809 075
Email: ben.hallett@campari.com
CARLTON & UNITED BREWERIES
Web: www.cub.com.au
Contact: Peter Yeomans
Phone: 0419 445 646
Email: Peter.Yeomans@cub.com.au
COCA-COLA EUROPACIFIC PARTNERS
Web: www.cocacolaep.com
Contact: Jessica Healy
Phone: 0403 702 066
Email: jessica.healy@ccep.com
CUB PREMIUM BEVERAGES
Web: www.cub.com.au
Contact: Todd Colman
Phone: 0409 480 978
Email: Todd.Colman@asahibeverages.com
DE BORTOLI WINES
Web: www.debortoli.com.au
Contact: Warwick Brook Phone: 02 8887 6800
Email: warwick_brook@debortoli.com.au
DIAGEO AUSTRALIA Web: www.diageo.com
Contact: Emily Sharp Phone: 0482 184 474
Email: emily.sharp@diageo.com
INDEPENDENT LIQUOR GROUP
Web: www.ilg.com.au
Contact: Patrick Kenny Phone: 0409 308 341
Email: p.kenny@ilg.com.au
INDEPENDENT LIQUOR RETAILERS
Web: www.ilr.net.au
Contact: Anthony Abdallah Phone: 0419 254 619
Email: anthony.abdallah@ilr.net.au
LION
Web: www.lionco.com
Contact: Greg Watt Phone: 02 9320 2200
Email: greg.watt@lionco.com
LIQUOR MARKETING GROUP/BOTTLEMART
Web: www.bottlemart.com.au
Contact: Aidan Desmond Phone: 0427 250 618
Email: adesmond@lmg.com.au
RED BULL AUSTRALIA
Web: www.redbull.com
Contact: Tyson Blais
Phone: 0402 395 682
Email: tyson.blais@redbull.com
TREASURY WINE ESTATES
Web: www.treasurywineestates.com
Contact: Jim Grant Phone: 0418 644 458
Email: jim.grant@tweglobal.com
VITTORIA FOOD & BEVERAGE Web: www.vittoriafandb.com
Contact: Mark Haj Phone: 0405 622 278
Email: Markh@vittoriacoffee.com
AUSTRALIAN LIQUOR MARKETERS Web: www.almliquor.com.au
Contact: Jacqueline Hamilton
Phone: 0408 289 426
Email: jacq.hamilton@almliquor.com.au
COOPERS BREWERY Web: www.coopers.com.au
Contact: Graham McDonald Phone: 0438 048 534
Email: graham.mcdonald@coopers.com.au
LIQUOR STAX AUSTRALIA PTY LTD Web: www.liquorstax.com.au
Contact: Guy Bohan
Phone: (02) 9554 8831
Email: guy@liquorstax.com.au
CLEANING
COMMERCIAL CLEAN AND CO
Web: www.commercialcleanandco.com.au
Contact: Tony Luu
Phone: 0448 424 996
Email: tony@commercialcleanandco.com.au
EMPIRE HOSPITALITY AUSTRALIA Web: www.empirehospitality.com.au
