AHA Hotel Today

Emmi Forster, Alex Kaewpraparn, Rosa Gomes, Luissa Allen, Jamie Warner, Kristin Allen and Isabella da Silva.

General Assembly, Riverland Group

Australian Hotels Association (Victoria)

AHA (Vic)

Level 1, 1 Little Collins Street, Melbourne Victoria 3000 PO Box 18067, 111 Bourke Street, Melbourne Victoria 8003 03 8631 7922 | ahavic.com.au

Editor

Priyanka Shahdadpuri

Marketing and Communications Lead p.shahdadpuri@ahavic.com.au

The feature material in this edition of Hotel Today was published by the Australian Hotels Association (Victoria). Care has been taken with the advertorial content of this issue; any enquiries regarding claims made should be directed to the companies concerned. 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.

PRESIDENt’s message DAvid canny | president

More and more you will be hearing the phase “social license” used to reference a standard by which our industry and individual operators are being held accountable to. This is beyond regulation and compliance.

AHA (Vic) will be seeking every opportunity to inform members on what a social license is and what contributes to it; how an individual operator and the industry can uphold and advance on our social license.

It has several meanings, several definitions, several perspectives, and several implications, and it varies from one hotel to another.

In simple terms, is it about gaining and maintaining the trust and confidence of the communitylegitimacy, credibility and trust are the cornerstones of a social licence to conduct business.

To our customers it is about the role we play in our community and

neighbourhoods, and the way in which we deliver our services.

For our staff it can be mean many things, from how the community interacts with our businesses to how we are addressing waste, recycling and energy.

To regulators and politicians, it is about going above and beyond simple compliance and seeing businesses address rising community expectations.

If we want to be an employer of choice and maintain our position within the community – because our sector is unrivalled in its support of those around us - then we need to continue on an upward trajectory.

We can be more outward in promoting how we support our communities and allow others to see that we assist so many.

We know that without community support our businesses don’t work. We understand that you need

community support to survive and prosper - so let’s not take for granted all the work that has occurred to ensure that we have high community standing and goodwill. Instead, let’s ask and challenge ourselves “what is next?”.

This is not about compliance - it is about how we can go above and beyond to achieve best practice.

Let us embrace the challenge of demonstrating our commitment to upholding our social license.

Pubs supporting the Royal Children’s Hospital

The Good Friday Appeal is a great opportunity for the pub and hotel industry to raise funds for the Royal Childrens Hospital.

There is a long history of pub and hotel support for the Royal Children’s Hospital and AHA (Vic) aims promote the total contribution

of the pub and hotel industry to this year’s Good Friday Appeal.

AHA (Vic) has led a coordinated effort where pubs, hotels and industry partners have carried out fundraising for the Good Friday Appeal and provided that information back to AHA (Vic) so the combined effort by the industry can be highlighted.

Cheers, David Canny President Australian Hotels Association (Vic)

Let us embrace the challenge of demonstrating our commitment to upholding our social license.

CEO’S UPDATE PADDY O’SULLIVAN | CEO

As the pub and hotel industry continually evolves, it is important that we take a holistic approach to our business practices, considering our impact on the environment, our social responsibilities, and our governance policies.

Through conversations with AHA (Vic) Principal Partner Commonwealth Bank of Australia, we have identified the importance of having an Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Policy when engaging with banks or financiers.

These policies are increasingly becoming a requirement for financial institutions, as they seek to minimise risk and ensure that the businesses they work with are taking a responsible approach to their business practices.

In order to assist members in creating their own ESG policies, we will be providing templates and resources to guide you through the process.

An emerging ESG opportunity members can participate in is the commencement of the Victorian Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) in November 2023.

This presents a great opportunity for pubs to engage with their local community or sporting groups.

We encourage members to explore how they can get involved and make a positive impact in their local areas. AHA (Vic) will be provide updates on the roll-out of the CDS as they become available and how to best be active in participating.

Community groups often organise events and activities related to the scheme, such as clean-up days and recycling drives. Engaging and supporting these types of activities can further strengthen the pub’s place in its community.

We encourage members to explore how they can get involved and make a positive impact in their local areas. AHA (Vic) will be provide updates on the roll-out of the CDS as they become available and how to best be active in participating.

It is important we continue to evolve our practices to ensure the longterm sustainability of our industry. By taking a responsible approach to our business practices, engaging with local communities, and exploring new opportunities, we can continue to thrive in the years to come.

Cheers,

By supporting a local community or sporting group participating in the scheme, a pub can actively show that it is environmentally conscious and committed to reducing waste.

Collaborations like this enhance the pub’s standing in the community and build positive relationships with residents and businesses.

Paddy O’Sullivan Chief Executive Officer Australian Hotels Association (Vic) p.osullivan@ahavic.com.au

Paddy Updates Publicans at PPP Wangaratta on ESG Strategies

MEMBERSHIP UPDATE TROY PATTERSON | MEMBERSHIP EXECUTIVE

THE PUBOVATION TOUR

The Pubovation Tour is a two-day interstate study tour for AHA (Vic) members. It is designed to educate members about new and innovative service offers pubs and hotels are doing across Australia to make them stand out from the crowd.

DAY 1

SANDSTONE POINT HOTEL

SANDSTONEPOINTHOTEL.COM.AU

The Comiskey family, own and operate the resort adjacent to Sandstone Point Hotel and across from Bribie Island. The Comiskey Group joined forces with Australia’s most popular holiday park brand, BIG4 Holiday Parks, and are listed within the BIG4 network.

Known now for their music events this venue will amaze you. We had the opportunity for a private tour of both the hotel and resort and then lunch at the newly completed Oyster Bar. The upcycled venue consisted of predominately used products throughout the venue, even down to the Palm Trees in the garden which were from Pirates of the Caribbean set on the Gold Coast. There is no shortage either of merchandise you name they have it. If it had Sandstone Point Hotel on it, it sells.

DAY 1. Focused on the Brisbane Region

DAY 2. Focused on the Burleigh and surrounding regions. The event kicked off on Monday morning with two busses and 66 participants all geared up for a jam-packed day.

OCHE BRISBANE OCHE.COM/AU/BRISBANE

This venue is next level when it comes to socialising. The key two activities are Modern Darts which is digitalised, still using your conventional darts and dart board based around a private booth. The concept is simple, choose your favourite game, order drinks and dishes to share and let the battle begin.

The other activity is SHUFL. SHUFL is the only way to play the game of Shuffleboard, played on a 22-foot champion table imported from Texas using a puk to push up the table.

The venue has two key moto’s being “competitive socialising”, and “they want to play, they want to stay”.

To see the format just head to OCHE Melbourne (263-269 Elizabeth Street. Melbourne.)

PRINCE CONSORT HOTEL THEPRINCECONSORT.COM.AU

The Prince Consort Hotel is a landmark historical pub, located in the heart of Fortitude Valley. What a surprise packet this venue was. There was not one space not utilised, whether it be in the beer garden, public bar, rooftop or even the cellar the venue has seven different venues in one. All areas classed as additional revenue streams. The venue tour was amazing seeing what can be done in every space. This is a must-see venue.

VENUE 3

JUBILEE HOTEL JUBILEEHOTEL.COM.AU

The Jubilee Hotel is a local iconic heritage listed venue that was originally built in 1887 based in the Fortitude Valley. Showcasing its two original levels, plus a jarring extension, the Heritage listed venue is here to make a statement with their redevelopment.

Our first impressions entering the building Wow, old and pristine and really cold beer. We then went on a tour and walked out into the redeveloped section which was massive, with so much space, big screens and a stage that was actually situated on top of the kitchen.

Nothing was spared and everything was big including a huge open kitchen and bar, plenty of communal spaces and function rooms. The day concluded with a cocktail style dinner and drinks in their private balcony space. Well worth a visit.

All that was in Day 1, so it was a reasonably early night for most as a bigger day was planned for Day 2 heading down to Burleigh.

MEMBERSHIP UPDATE

BURLEIGH PAVILION

BURLEIGHPAVILION.COM

What a start to Day 2. The Burleigh Pavilion is the ultimate destination by the ocean. Think beachfront views, fresh drinks and great food with the people you love. An endless summer.

A privately owned venue that is open 364 days of the year split into two section’s the bar and the pavilion and also an extra revenue stream of an outside catering offer. The venue employs 300 staff which includes “YES” this is correct 60 chefs, which is mind blowing.

The staff and the cocktails were amazing setting the tone for the day. With the views of the ocean and the great weather the entire day could have been spent there.

DAY 2

BURLEIGH TOWN HOTEL

BURLEIGHTOWNHOTEL.COM.AU

A quick bus trip and we were there. This venue is owned by the Australian Venue Co and has just recently been refurbished. The venue has numerous areas including bistro, beer gardens and without a doubt pride themselves on their world class sports bar.

When you talk sports bars you wouldn’t believe the size of the big screens in the venue and their ability to change and format the sizes depending on what’s on. Not to mention the size of the TAB either. You have to see it to believe it. We had lunch their and had a live example of what the screens could do which was amazing.

KEY FACT (1): The venue is actually on a street called Tispura. The original owner called it that because backwards it reads r u pissed. True story.

VENUE 1

VENUE 2

VENUE 3

BALTER TAPROOM

BALTER.COM.AU

Off to Currumbin we went next to visit the Balter Taproom for some more beer tastings and an brewery tour. Based in the industrial region the Taproom was a very modern facility and had a great range of merchandise for sale.

We had a fabulous tour and the speakers at the venue who gave us all things Balter and explained the brewing process and the tap wall on site.

KEY FACT (2): In my discussions with a publican at the taproom and after a few beers I was informed he owned the Victorian Number plates Balter and 4 Pines. Who am I?

ROBINA PAVILION

ROBINAPAVILION.COM.AU

VENUE 5

The last venue was voted best TAB licenced venue in 2022 QHA Awards and was voted the Number 1 Pub on the Gold Coast. The Robina Pavilion was renovated 3 years ago and had a fabulous area out the back over looking the lake. The venue has 5 specific function areas and an extensive cocktail menu.

When speaking with the Manager they have a rotating tap strategy that works really well, in conjunction with the beer towers they activate for the outdoor areas. The also have an, annual smokehouse day just focusing on everything smoked and its booked out annually.

IRIS ROOFTOP, HOTEL X

HOTELX.COM.AU

VENUE 4

Home bound we headed for the Iris Rooftop Bar located at Hotel X in the Fortitude Valley for our final dinner and drinks to conclude Pubovation 2023. This is Brisbane’s most luxurious rooftop bar and restaurant. “A Spanish oasis in the clouds, capturing the impressive sights of the Brisbane City Skyline, New Farm, Fortitude Valley and beyond”.

A great evening was had by all and the planning now starts for Pubovation 2024. I must thank all the AHA Staff who help organise and run the event and the members and Partners who attended without you these events can’t happen.

Troy Patterson Membership Executive - AHA

Vic

PARTNERS

TIP FROM A TAB PUBLICAN

TAB Digital Retail is already in-play across close to two hundred venues throughout Victoria and New South Wales. As one of the very first pubs to adopt TAB Digital Retail in November of 2021, the All Nations Hotel in Richmond is already seeing the benefits of a digitally-led, streamlined TAB offering. AHA VIC 2019 Publican of the Year, Bob O’Kane gives us some insight into how Digital Retail has been elevating the All Nations offering.

What do you see as the biggest benefit of TAB Digital Retail?

I think that the greatest benefit of TAB Digital Retail is that it makes full coverage racing and sports vision more affordable. The provision of racing and sports vision provides benefits in a variety of ways. Importantly, it means that your regular customers don’t disappear at 12:30pm on a Saturday afternoon to watch the races and have a punt at the pub down the road. Serious punters need the full coverage of racing from all states. They like the in-venue offers that TAB provide. It means that they don’t need to change camps to get those offers.

Additionally, the sports vision, particularly the basketball, really appeals to a different demographic, and the fact that they can watch live games and have a bet on them via the TAB App if they choose to, brings a new user to the table in our pub. Without cash betting facilities and operator terminals, our staff have more time to focus on the punter, assisting with the TAB App, and ensuring they’re gambling safely and responsibly.

Have you seen new customers come to your venue?

We have definitely seen new customers coming into the venue, especially on weekends and almost always in groups. These are typically punters that want to have a pooled quaddie and a few bets for interest whilst having a meal. It’s a time-honoured tradition as we all know, but they previously couldn’t do it in our venue. Now we see them regularly.

What impact has this offering had on your venue?

Firstly, and most importantly, it hasn’t changed the “vibe”. The digital TAB has integrated seamlessly into our offering and is not “in your face”. Sometimes full-scale TAB offerings can be noisy and raucous at times which may be at odds with a hotel’s food and beverage offering. The digital version is less hard edged with people betting on their own devices. So it doesn’t alienate anyone, it simply adds to our offering. The other positives are obvious to me; new customers for new reasons. Once they have been in and exposed to our version of hospitality, they come back. It keeps people dwelling in the venue longer. I’m hearing a lot of “let’s stay to watch the end of the game” Or the ‘”gotta watch the last leg of the quaddie” It’s all important in getting a better spend per head.

What has the feedback been from your staff?

The staff are happy that it’s so easy for them. So, no negatives in respect of staff, and it gives them something else to engage with the customers about. They chat about omen bets and things like that, it adds to the banter around the bar and they don’t need to be popping tickets through, handling and balancing cash and dealing with punter issues.

Would you recommend this offering to other publicans?

I would certainly recommend TAB Digital Retail. It will not suit every venue of course and the full TAB suite of offerings will still suit many venues better, but for venues that

want the benefit of the vision and all that the vision brings, without the capex and the work involved in a full TAB, it is a no brainer.

A word from TAB

TAB’s General Manager for Venues, David Dicker, is looking forward to seeing how Digital Retail will help raise the game for hotels across Victoria.

“We’re very excited to be offering a streamlined, digitally-led retail venue fit-out to Victorian Licensed Venues. Our aim is to drive foot traffic into venues by putting live sport and racing vision front-and-centre, and by offering retail-exclusive offers and unique markets via Venue Mode on the TAB App.

Interested in learning more?

Visit

Subject to Regulatory Approval. Currently not available in all states and territories. Chances are you’re about to lose. For free and confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit gamblinghelponline.org.au

ELEGANCE AND OPULENCE APLENTY AS THE ROYCE REOPENS

This month has seen the grand re-opening of luxury hotel The Royce, following a two year-long complete refurbishment. Located on the border of Melbourne’s CBD and the leafy suburb of South Yarra, just a short walk from the Royal Botanical Gardens, Albert Park and National Gallery of Victoria, the boutique hotel intends to bring the golden age of hospitality back to the city, where service will be led with discretion, indulgence will be encouraged, and opulence will be expected.

The heritage-listed building was originally designed in 1928 by the prolific Art Deco architect, Harry Norris and the leading agent for prestige cars, Kellow Falkiner. Once one of Australia’s most prestigious automobile showrooms and the original home of Rolls Royce in Melbourne, the hotel’s latest iteration pays homage to the prestigious showroom, with an illuminated porte-cochère offering the most glamourous welcome to guests, transporting them to the hey-day of the 1920s.

Comprising 94 guest rooms, the diverse range of room options includes 18 spacious, uniquely designed suites, many of which offer balconies with views of Melbourne’s CBD and Shrine of Remembrance. Six two-storey loft-suites are of particular note - featuring original cornicing, these were once home to the original Rolls Royce mechanic workshop.

Stepping off the leafy tree-lined St Kilda Rd, guests will be greeted by The Royce’s discrete 24-hour concierge, before being swept into the lavish Lobby Lounge, reminiscent of old-world establishments that once played host to high-society. The art-deco inspired room is replete with plush furnishings in hues of navy blue and royal purple, as well as a centre-piece

AS THE SUN RISES, GUESTS WILL AWAKEN TO BREAKFAST IN THE HOTEL’S RESTAURANT, WHERE TIMBER PARQUETRY FLOORS GUIDE THEM THROUGH THE BRIGHT AND AIRY ROOM WITH HUES OF DUCK EGG BLUE AND CORAL, TAKING INSPIRATION FROM THE DELICATE BOTANICAL WALLPAPER, IMPORTED FROM BARCELONA, THAT LINES THE WALLS.

14-metre-tall curved marble fireplace, drawing guests’ eyes to the high ceilings above, adorned with a 2-metre-wide chandelier. Crossing the threshold of the capacious lounge, the 9-metre-long Showroom Bar will stretch out in front, with an elegant dark marble top and leather upholstered bar stools, which will encourage guests to sit back and sip on clandestine drinks well into the night, with an elegant array of British dishes available for dining all-day.

A sweeping marble staircase curves elegantly around the side of the room, leading guests to the balcony above and through to The Royce’s Library and Ballroom. Designed for private events, The Library will provide the ideal place to enjoy a glass of champagne or classic cocktail under the sultry light. With floor-to-ceiling Zebrano timber bookshelves lined with a curated collection of classics, the space is akin to the bespoke clubs of London, suggestive of the prohibition speakeasies, sets the evening’s tone before being whisked behind the elegantly concealed doors and into The Ballroom. Echoing the plush hues of the hotel lobby, the 120-person space allows guests to celebrate underneath six grand chandeliers, whilst the walls are a nod to the building’s history,

panelled with chrome that draws inspiration from the classic Rolls Royce grill.

As night falls, guests are invited to sink into one of the hotel’s 94 rooms and suites, each uniquely and intricately designed, from the soft leather upholstery to the restored original cornices which line the ceilings, with state-of-the-art responsive technology making for the most luxurious of escapes. White Italian Carrera marble bathrooms are complete with hand cut glass alcoves and Molton Brown amenities, with many suites offering freestanding baths for an added palatial touch.

As the sun rises, guests will awaken to breakfast in the hotel’s restaurant, where timber parquetry floors guide them through the bright and airy room with hues of duck egg blue and coral, taking inspiration from the delicate botanical wallpaper, imported from Barcelona, that lines the walls. French doors fold back and reveal the glass conservatory, lined with striped awnings in French grey and white, and a classic French Lattice tiled floor to match. Just in time for the final months of summer, the hotel’s terrace provides the perfect place

to dine alfresco, or sip on a sparkling glass of champagne in the sunshine, transporting guests to the quintessential summer gardens of Britain, with heated floors and seats in place to ensure the space remains a cosy retreat in cooler months.

Whilst art deco decadence and opulent play is at the heart of The Royce, the hotel also offers three boardrooms, each named after the iconic businessmen that brought the building to life; the Henry Room, the Norris Room and the Kellow Room, making The Royce the ultimate place for both indulgent weekends away or an overnight business stay.

Rooms start at $420 per night.

The Royce

379 St Kilda Road

Melbourne VIC 3004

T: (03) 8614 1414

E: info@roycehotel.com.au

W: www.roycehotel.com.au

PARTNERS

TURNING WITH THE AUTUMN BREEZE!

As we wave goodbye to Autumn and the cooler months draw near, at Supagas, we understand the importance of your businesses’ gas needs. Providing assistance and support to Supagas customers’ and AHA VIC members through challenges in the market is what enables Supagas to adapt and service your business.

The Hospitality and Foodservices industry is constantly changing and evolving and finding new ways to appeal and service your customers’ is becoming more imperative. Supagas Victorian Branches and Liquid Nitrogen Services (LNS - A division of Supagas) will continue to offer quality products, customer service and delivery to AHA VIC members and the greater community.

The gas professionals at Supagas are here to discuss your business at a time convenient to you. For AHA VIC members the Supagas team

are here to talk about your current cylinder holding and gas needs. The Supagas team will determine your gas utilisation, the gas you require and work with you to help with all your gas needs.

As the weather cools down, Supagas can provide a gas solution for your venue. The range of gases Supagas supplies to the Hospitality and Foodservice sector include; Carbon Dioxide in cylinder and bulk, as well as Nitrogen, SupaMix, Heatagas and SupaSwap gases. Did you know, you may find the bubbles in your beer are dispensed with Carbon Dioxide and SupaMix gases such as SupaMix 30, 40 and 55? Do you require Heatagas and Heaters to warm up your venue this season? The experienced hospitality specialists at Supagas will work alongside you to recommend the most suitable product and configuration to support your venue.

For a greater customer experience, Supagas also offer Dry Ice and Liquid Nitrogen products for Hospitality businesses and venues alike for food and drink presentation.

Don’t forget to view Supagas AHA VIC Promotional Offer for your Carbon Dioxide and SupaMix cylinder requirements in Hotel Today!

For more information about Supagas products and how we can assist you this season, contact the team on 13 78 72 or visit www.supagas.com.au to enquire. When you contact Supagas with your inquiry mention that you are a member of AHA VIC to gain access to our competitive AHA VIC exclusive member pricing.

For All Your Heater, Hospitality Gas, Liquid Nitrogen and Dry Ice Needs, contact Supagas!

S p e c i a l Offer

*Offer valid until May 31, 2023.

www.heatstrip.com.au

HEATSTRIP is a world leader in elegant, high performance commercial outdoor heaters including electric infrared & slimline strip heaters, as well as portable LPG and wall-mount NG heaters A solution for all hospitality applications

PARTNERS

PREPARING FOR YOUR INSURANCE RENEWAL: TIPS FOR HOTELS AND PUBS

As it does every year your insurance will come up for renewal. Prior to your due date there are several things to think about and prepare in advance, to ensure your coverage is right for you.

With our many years of experience in placing Hotels & Pubs insurance programs and having been a partner of the AHA (VIC) for over 5 years, we would like to share some things you should consider in preparation for your renewal:

Preparation is key - Start early

This is the biggest tip we can give any client, begin to strategise and collate renewal submission information at least three months prior to renewal. With a busy insurance marketplace if you leave it too late you could leave yourself open to many insurers not having the time to review your submission.

Review and analyse your processes

Insurers like to see that you are working with them to help mitigate risk. The key things we think make a real difference are:

• Regular surveying of your site

• Regular cleaning of the kitchen and ventilation system

• A fire protection program suitable for your hotel

• Regular thermographic scanning to ensure any problems with electrical wiring can be fixed. This can really make an impact, particularly for older buildings, as it shows you are on top of one of your biggest exposures

• Staff training and processes on recognising and mitigating incident

Act on problem areas

Survey’s, thermographic scans and claims can point out problem areas in your business. Most insurers will understand these fixes take time, but what they like to see is you move quickly to fix the most urgent issues. This could be:

• Adding non-slip flooring in high-risk zones

• Installing stairwell reflective tape on steps to highlight edges

• Wiring issues fixed straight away

• Staff checking zones regularly for slip and fall issues

A proactive client will always have an easier time in getting an alternative quote or working with the insurer, even if they have had a previous claim.

Speak to an Adroit Insurance & Risk Adviser

Your local Adroit Insurance & Risk Adviser has access to insurance markets that many other Insurance Brokers do not. Therefore, they can ensure that you are not only getting a competitive deal but also talk you through the different options so you can select the cover that is right for you. Give Adroit a call today for your free, no obligation quote.

1300 MY ADROIT mail@adroit.com.au adroit.com.au

Adroit have looked after our Hotel insurance needs for over 10 years. They came to our rescue amid skyrocketing premiums and have been able to tailor policies specific to our hospitality business. We share the angst of continued rising costs of doing business but are very happy to have Adroit on our side to ensure we don’t pay any more than we have to while having the peace of mind that we are well covered.

DAVID CANNY

The Red Lion Hotel & The Montague Hotel AHA President

LEADING THE PACK: INSPIRING WOMEN OF RIVERLAND GROUP

Riverland Group is a notable example of the evolution of the hospitality industry, where there is an increasing representation of women in leadership roles. The company boasts a team of talented female leaders who bring diversity and strength to their positions. With their expertise, they are setting high standards for excellence and creativity within the industry. From managing teams of hundreds to overseeing multi-million-dollar projects, these women are proving that gender is no barrier to success.

In an interview with The Australian Hotels Association, General Manager Kristin Allen provided insight into the company’s history and evolution, as well as its unique approach to hospitality. She spoke about the company’s commitment to revitalizing spaces and creating career pathways for its staff, as well as its focus on sustainability and responsible business practices.

Speaking about her journey, Allen said, “I have been working for Riverland Group for 8.5 years now. I originally joined as a venue manager for Riverland and Pilgrim Bar in 2014. From there, I made my way to the Area Manager role, helping run the company’s businesses located along the Yarra River. Eventually, I moved into the Operations Manager position and finally into the General Manager role in 2018.”

When asked about how Riverland Group differentiates itself from other hospitality companies, Allen emphasised the importance of authenticity and passion. “We are all about good people and great experiences, the Group is still owned by the 2 mates who started it and are still very much at the forefront of it. The staff have a real sense of who they are and what they are looking for, out of the business. We are passionate about developing people and how we can create careers for individuals

within the industry.” Kristin praised the company’s founders, Richard Ludbrook and David Sharry for the exceptional level of passion and respect they bring to the organisation and its staff members.

The hospitality industry has faced challenges in the past year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and Riverland Group was no exception. Allen explained that their focus in the past year has been on stabilising their teams and concentrating on staffing. However, they have also managed to open a new venue, Hotel Railway, and bring back their popular Juniperlooza event after a two-year hiatus.

Despite the challenges, the business has managed to maintain its focus on delivering exceptional experiences to its clients. According to Luissa Allen, Sales Manager at Riverland Group, the group’s philosophy is centred around creating great experiences and having fun. Allen emphasised that the goal is to provide clients with a memorable experience that exceeds their expectations.

Luissa and her sales team collaborate with all departments of the business to develop a product offering that they are confident in and that the venues can execute. This takes into consideration the size of the venues with The General Assembly and Riverland Bar both able to host approximately 600 people, with Hotel Railway having capacity for 900 guests and The BoatBuilder’s Yard being able to accommodate around 1,400 individuals. It is through this multi-team effort and collaboration that the sales team can provide a high standard of service to their clients and maintain that standard all year round.

“It seems crazy but right now we are planning for Christmas again which is always an extremely busy time of year! Christmas party enquiries are coming in thick and fast. It’s a testament to all staff that many are repeat clients.

To stay on top of each event hosted across all venues, the sales team has daily contact with the venues. Ultimately, it is up to each venue to deliver what we’ve sold. And at the end of the day, we are one big happy team,” says Luissa. For the team, one of the most important aspects of delivering these events is gathering feedback from clients and using it to improve the experience they provide.

As the world continues to adapt to the changes brought on by the pandemic, the hospitality industry has had to revaluate and innovate its marketing strategies. According to the Digital Marketing Manager of the business, Emmi Forster, “keeping up

From left to right: Emmi Forster, Alex Kaewpraparn, Rosa Gomes, Luissa Allen, Jamie Warner, Kristin Allen and Isabella da Silva.

to date with the digital space is important, as it is constantly evolving. It is crucial that our digital footprint provides each venue’s unique audience with a consistent message about our brands. This means understanding where our brands have a presence in the digital world and a big part of that is social media marketing for the hospitality industry.”

Emmi emphasised “that any marketing strategy in a post-covid era needs to have clear goals that are at the forefront of all activity. More importantly objectives that are constantly evaluated, allowing yourself the space to pivot when needed”. Hotel Railway’s refurbishment is a prime example of this, the historic 140-year-old Brunswick property which reopened March of 2022 has many audiences to consider, from former patrons and sporting punters to 3056 locals, families and destination visitors. Emmi says “our goals are the same but the way we are achieving them has changed since opening. This is due to things like industry trends, consumer behaviour, the evolving digital space and the learnings we gain on a daily

basis. The strength of our team really shows when we need to make a change and it happens seamlessly”.

Speaking of refurbished venues, located at the intersection of Glenhuntly Road and Riddell Parade, stands a redbrick structure that formerly served as The Caulfield Rifle Club. However, for almost two decades, the place remained unoccupied. That is until Dave Sharry and Richie Ludbrook, co-founders of Riverland Group converted the abandoned space into a lively restaurant and bar called The Rifle Club goes Bang Bang. Operating 6 days a week, the establishment offers an evolving menu, and when it comes to delivering on that promise, there’s no one better suited for the job than Head Chef Alex Kaewpraparn. With eight years of experience in the industry and a passion for creating delicious, authentic dishes, Alex is the culinary driving force behind the restaurant’s success.

One of the things that sets Bang Bang apart from other restaurants is the focus on Southeast Asian cuisine, using French

cooking techniques. Alex specialises in this cuisine and has honed her skills over the years by working as a Head Chef at several other successful Southeast Asian restaurants in Australia. She attributes her success to a genuine passion for food and a commitment to delivering exceptional dining experiences to her customers. “For me, food is an experience and it is the reward you receive in your life. When you have enough money, you want to eat good food. It makes you feel rewarded,” said Alex in our chat sitting under the shade of the stunning outdoor courtyard at the venue.

Alex’s background has also played a significant role in her success as a chef. She grew up in Thailand and learned to cook alongside her grandmother, who would slow-cook dishes for hours on end. Although she didn’t understand it at the time, she now realizes that this was the secret to achieving complex, delicious flavours in the dishes they cooked. “I take pride in being a female Chef, as I believe we not only put the hard work, but the emotions in our cooking. That’s why my grandmother’s food was

Bang Bang Head Chef: Alex Kaewpraparn

special. Others could use the exact same recipe and it would never be as good as hers.” Today, Alex uses a traditional charcoal wok, which she says is crucial to achieving authentic, delicious flavours in the dishes.

One of Alex’s key strategies for staying ahead of the curve is to build strong relationships with suppliers. She starts planning dishes and sourcing ingredients months in advance, working closely with suppliers to ensure that she can get the best quality produce at a fair price. She also prioritizes organic and sustainable ingredients, using locally sourced produce wherever possible. “I try to use organic pork from the farms, local Morton Bay Bugs and Spanner Crabs from the coast,” said Alex, with a wide smile on her face which truly displayed her love for the process of selecting the produce used in her cooking.

“I love when people get emotional and enjoy my food because that’s what makes my life as a chef whole.” Alex believes that female chefs have as much potential as their male counterparts and should not let anyone discourage them from pursuing their passions. Instead, she encourages them to keep doing what they love and to put their passion into the food they create.

During our interview with the team, I had the pleasure of speaking with Venue Manager Isabella and Assistant Venue Manager Jamie. They both shared their insights on what makes the venue unique and how they strive to maintain their competitive advantage.

Isabella explained that Bang Bang is a multi-faceted space that caters to a diverse range of customers. They offer different experiences, from the extremely popular bottomless brunch, partying or chilling, to hosting happy hours and engagement parties. Their biggest advantage, according to Isabella, is their unique location as the biggest indoor-outdoor space on the Elsternwick strip.

When it comes to their menu, Jamie highlighted that Bang Bang differentiates themselves by offering French cooking techniques with Southeast Asian herbs and spices. This is reflected in their wine and cocktail list, which perfectly complements the food. The staff are knowledgeable about the menu and can suggest the perfect dish and drink for their guests, making customer service a top priority. “I do believe that

In the background: The Boatbuilders Yard, South Wharf

people are again exploring more with their personal travels and more restaurants are trying to be authentic in their menus. They are getting their children to open up their palettes, which wasn’t the case 5 years ago, especially bringing it to a suburb where you already had to go through that transition,” responded Jamie to a question about how the locals were responding to this unique Food and Beverage offering.

Rosa Gomes, the Area Manager of the Riverland Group, has had an impressive career in the hospitality industry. Initially pursuing a career in marine science, Rosa soon discovered that her passion and talents lie in managing people and interacting with strangers. After traveling and experiencing the hospitality industry around the world, she found her home in Melbourne and began her journey as a front-of-house staff member. With over 15 years of experience, Gomes has been instrumental in the success of the group’s six sites.

Gomes attributes her success to her passion for managing people and seeing them thrive in the industry. “As an Area Manager, my role is primarily a support function to ensure that each venue has everything it needs to be successful,” says Rosa. This largely involves a focus on developing the skills and

career paths of employees at these venues, which she believes is key to growing the business.

When asked about the challenges of being a female Area Manager, Gomes acknowledges the existence of wage gaps in the industry. However, she highlighted, “Riverland Group is an equal opportunity employer led by both women and men. We are led by women as much as we are led by men. Everyone gets a fair shot regardless of gender, full stop.” Gomes encourages young women to pursue careers in management within the hospitality industry, advising them to be self-aware of their own biases and hold themselves and others accountable to equal opportunity.

Her final piece of advice to young women is to say yes to new experiences and to embrace discomfort as a means of growth. Gomes found it helpful to have other likeminded women in her life and encourages young women to seek out “girl bosses” to support and inspire them.

TRUST YOUR SPIRIT WITH WILD TURKEY

WILD TURKEY MUSIC 101 will offer mentoring opportunities to Aussie artists that Trust their Spirit as part of a bespoke live music tour.

Trust Your Spirit. It’s what all music artists do. Think with their gut. Make music for them, not someone else. It’s this ethos that is imbued into every touchpoint for Wild Turkey’s new local brand platform, Music 101.

While many believe live music is back, a new piece of research from Wild Turkey Bourbon reveals 4 in 5 (81%) aspiring musicians find it difficult to book a live gig. So Wild Turkey and local Australian Music legends are teaming up to mentor up and coming artists & help artists get more live music experience through a series of Music 101 sessions.

These select gigs will be scheduled across Australia – offering fans a unique & intimate live music experience. Additionally Wild Turkey is partnering with pubs & venues all around Australia to deliver more live music to consumers in all corners of Australia.

Wild Turkey has also crafted a first of its kind mobile music home featuring a recording studio, bar and live stage. Fans can sip on Wild Turkey bourbon from the bar while artists play from the stage or record a demo in the back.

Fans and AHA members are encouraged to keep an eye on Wild Turkey’s social channels to enter the draw for a chance to win tickets to see special artists and the Wild Turkey Music 101 sessions,

Get ready to experience the ultimate intimate music journey with Wild Turkey’s new platform, Music 101. From intimate 101 music sessions held across the country with a unique and curated selection of artists, our platform promises to deliver a truly unforgettable experience. So, join us and immerse yourself in the world of Wild Turkey’s Music 101 – where every note is a journey and every song tells a story. Sign up for your chance to win tickets at www. wildturkeybourbon.com

Wild Turkey. Trust Your Spirit.

For more information contact info.australia@campari.com

wildturkeybourbon.com

For more information contact info.australia@campari.com

LE MÉRIDIEN MELBOURNE

DRAWS BACK THE CURTAIN WITH AN IMPRESSIVE DEBUT

This grand occasion marked the brand’s highly-anticipated reintroduction to Australia. The impressive new hotel development, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary hotel brands, now proudly sits within Melbourne’s Parliamentary precinct at 20 Bourke Street in Melbourne’s CBD. Its location, near Spring Street and the east of Melbourne invites travellers to savour the moment and connect with the city’s famed art, culture and culinary scene through the brand’s timeless perspective on modern travel.

“We are excited to reintroduce Le Méridien to Australia and bring the brand’s European essence of savouring the good life to global tastemakers and locals.” said Jennifer Connell, Global Brand Leader, Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts and Vice President, Distinctive Premium Brands, Marriott International.

One of Melbourne’s most historic entertainment sites has been reimagined, following the opening of Le Méridien Melbourne recently.

“Melbourne is a destination known for its rich history and thriving art, culture and culinary scene, which makes it the perfect fit for Le Méridien. We look forward to welcoming travellers as they explore Melbourne in style.”

Originally built as a hotel in the 1850s, the site has been a cornerstone of Melbourne’s arts and culture scene through its many iterations as a theatre, cinema, nightclub, and live performance venue. Returning to its original interpretation as a hotel, Le Méridien Melbourne pays homage to its rich history through curated design, immersive art installations, and exciting culinary collaborations.

Mid-Century Modern Design

The property offers 235 guest rooms including 14 suites, where contemporary style meets mid-century elegance with custom joinery, eye-catching lighting, and chic marble bathrooms. Soothing neutrals are paired with tactile finishes and a pop of colour – such as the striking air-force blue velvet chairs that give a nod to the brand’s Air France origins. High room floors feature floor-to-ceiling views over the pool and out to the east of Melbourne, while lower levels immerse travellers in Melbourne’s bustling laneways or the historic red brick and stained-glass façade.

All guest rooms feature the brand’s signature room scent, Malin + Goetz bath amenities, signature Le Méridien beds, Marshall Speakers, 55-inch LCD TVs, bottled cocktails by The Everleigh Bottling Co., a personal coffee machine with artisan coffee pods and a dedicated working desk designed for the creative-minded traveller. Suites are elevated with black stone kitchenettes, premium Smeg appliances, luxury barware, a selection of art books, beautifully-crafted oak board games, and Yamaha MusicCast 500 turntables with a selection of vinyls from artists such as Prince and James Brown, who once performed on-site.

Focus on Local Art

Retaining the original Art Deco façade paired with chic mid-century interiors, the 12-story building designed by Melbourne architecture practice, Peddle Thorp, brings a sense of glamour and theatre to Bourke Street. Guests are greeted with a private porte-cochère driveway featuring a striking mural by local artist Stephen Baker, before entering the dazzling lobby filled with mid-century inspired furniture, polished natural stone and terrazzo. A large-scale sculptural installation by Marta Figueiredo and projected video art by Wendy Yu introduces lobby visitors to Le Méridien’s global Unlock Art programme, which

connects guests with the “Art of Noticing” self-guided walking tour and complimentary access to local cultural attractions, all simply accessible by presenting their Unlock Art™ room key.

European Classics with a Local Twist

Le Splash – the showpiece rooftop pool and terrace – hosts an additional large-scale mural by Stephen Baker and features an open-air bar serving cocktails, poolside snacks and inventive local gelato flavours from Le Scoop by Le Méridien – the brand’s signature handcrafted gelato and sorbet cream programme. There will also be a seasonal pop-up cinema on the rooftop that will launch later this year. Adjoining the pool deck is a 24-hour TechnoGym complete with virtual personal trainers and a sauna. Intermission is a lobby café serving baristabrewed Axil coffee by day and transforms into a wine bar by night, offering petit plates and an extensive list of local and imported rosé wines. In the subterranean level, low-lit restaurant, Dolly, serves elevated European dishes by Executive Chef Christian Graebner made from local Victorian produce, accompanied by an extensive wine list, and artful cocktails designed in collaboration with The Everleigh Bottling Co.

WE ARE EXCITED TO DRAW BACK THE CURTAIN ON MELBOURNE’S MOST GLAMOUROUS NEW HOTEL AND INVITE GUESTS TO SAVOUR THE GOOD LIFE THROUGH IMMERSIVE ART, ELEVATED EUROPEAN DINING AND OUR SHOWPIECE ROOFTOP POOL.” SAID PETER MINATSIS, GENERAL MANAGER, LE MÉRIDIEN MELBOURNE.

Creative Meetings and Events

The hotel offers 420 square metres of total conference space, with the largest presenting 182 square metres that can be divided into two rooms. A dedicated meetings floor features four additional rooms and three private working booths. The facilities in the heart of Melbourne CBD include ample onsite parking, high-speed Internet access and the latest audio and video equipment. These flexible, functional spaces are crafted for conferences, planning workshops, executive boardroom meetings, social functions and weddings.

For more information on Le Méridien Melbourne or to make a reservation, please visit www.lemeridienmelbourne.com.

Le Méridien Melbourne

20 Bourke Street, Melbourne

T: (03) 9123 3900

GIN TOUR 2023

This year, AHA (Vic) hosted its firstever Gin Tour in partnership with Diageo, giving members a chance to explore the art of Gin making at some of Northeast Victoria’s best family-owned distilleries. The event was a huge success, with participants getting a unique opportunity to witness the passion, dedication, and creativity that goes into making every bottle of Gin.

The tour was a great opportunity for members to connect with other like-minded individuals and support local businesses. Billson’s Brewery, Backwoods Distilling Co., and Glenbosch Wine Estate were the venues for the tour, and each one offered something special to the members.

The tour was a fantastic opportunity for members to gain an in-depth understanding of the Gin-making process and the industry. It was also a chance to learn about the unique history and traditions of each distillery that we visited.

We are committed to providing more of such experiences to its members, allowing them to explore the industry, learn from experts, and connect with peers. With the increasing popularity of local spirit tours, the association looks forward to bringing more unique and exciting opportunities to its members in the future.

Lee Attwood hosts a tasting at Backwoods Distilling Co.

ABOVE: Members arrive at Billson’s Brewery for the Tour LEFT: Bree Attwood, Blackwoods Distilling Co

BELOW: AHA (Vic) Members at Glenbosch Wine Estate

Billson’s Brewery Retail Shop

PARTNERS

THE NUMBER 1 THING YOUR EMPLOYEES WANT? TRAINING!

IF YOU’RE STRUGGLING TO FIND STAFF FOR YOUR HOTEL YOU’RE NOT ALONE. THE PANDEMIC, LOWER IMMIGRATION RATES, LOW UNEMPLOYMENT RATES, AS WELL AS INCREASED SICK AND ANNUAL LEAVE HAVE ALL CONTRIBUTED TO MAKING IT MORE AND MORE DIFFICULT TO FIND AND KEEP STAFF

But consider that it’s not just the employers who are facing challenges. Employees also face difficulties in feeling confident in their job role. Consider that the hospitality industry sees a high proportion of younger staff, who are generally inexperienced.

The 2022 AHA Hospo Survey found that the number 1 thing employees look for in a hospitality employer is TRAINING!

Training provides a solution to both these problems – it helps employees gain new skills and knowledge, which helps them perform their jobs better. It also boosts their confidence and motivation, leading to higher job satisfaction and reduced turnover rates. Training also helps employers improve the quality of their services, which leads to increased customer satisfaction, loyalty and sales. And the best thing is it’s easy to start!

But how can you provide training that is effective, but also affordable, and efficient?

Here’s some tips from AHA (Vic) training partner AVTES:

Internal Training

This is training you provide within the business. You can generally implement internal training immediately;

• Standards and Procedures – ensure you have up to date processes, that staff are aware of them, and that they have easy access. Consider signage and diagrams that could be placed in relevant places around the workplace. (If you need help with this, organisations like AVTES can help you develop and implement effective standards and procedures)

• Demonstrations – for new and existing staff. Got a piece of equipment or specific task that needs more consistency across the venue? Bring staff together and do a quick demonstration.

• Shadowing or Buddy System – great for new staff or where staff are promoted. Have them shadow an experienced worker for a time to learn from them.

External Training

External training uses outside expertise to provide training (which can be done at the workplace or an external venue).

• Workshops – employees can learn practical and soft skills from industry experts and bring new perspectives and skills back to their role and workplace.

• Online training – provides flexible learning opportunities that can fit into busy schedules. Allows affordable access to expertise, but generally less effective than face-to-face.

• Accredited Training – employees earn recognized certifications with an accredited training provider (like AVTES). Increased skills, knowledge and performance boost employee career prospects, while employers can access government subsidies and financial incentives where eligible.

By implementing training in your hotel you will contribute to a positive work environment where employees feel valued and appreciated. This in turn maximises the performance and potential of your existing staff, which is better for you and them.

For advice and assistance with all your training needs get in touch.

Alex Parratt Client Relationship Manager

m: 0418 730 409 e: alex@avtes.com.au WWW.avtes.com.au

AHA (VIC) INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY BRUNCH 2023

On 9 March 2023, AHA (Vic) hosted an International Women’s Day brunch at the splendid Park Hyatt in Melbourne, that left a lasting impression on all who attended. With a line-up of exceptional speakers, partners who generously provided prizes and giveaways, and a commitment to supporting an important cause, the event was a resounding success.

Azmeena Hussain OAM delivered a personal and powerful speech on inclusivity, support, and upliftment for every individual in the workplace. Her inspiring words resonated with everyone in attendance, regardless of gender or industry. Lee Sammartino, Head of Business Growth & Acquisition at HostPlus, also shared meaningful life experiences that were greatly appreciated and remembered by every single attendee.

The event was made possible thanks to the ongoing support of partners Hostplus, Coca-

Cola Europacific Partners, Treasury Wine Estates, Carlton & United Breweries, and Encore Event Technologies. They provided much-needed resources and made the event a memorable experience for everyone.

Attendees were also treated to epic prizes and giveaways thanks to partners Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Australia, Bupa Health Insurance, Tabcorp, Stan Sport, and TCNThe Card Network. From Roku Gin gift bottles to health insurance and sports memorabilia, there was something for everyone. The lucky draw winners even received $100 Pub and Bar Gift Cards from TCN.

In addition to celebrating International Women’s Day, the Hotel Care Foundation pledged to donate $5,000 to Share the Dignity, a women’s charity in Australia that supports those experiencing homelessness, fleeing domestic violence, or facing hardship. The donation will help the organisation

continue its mission to end period poverty, which Founder and Managing Director Rochelle Courtenay emphasised is a basic necessity that no one should have to go without.

Hosted by Kimberley Malcolm - General Manager of Member Experience and Compliance at AHA (Vic), the event showcased the power of collaboration and highlighted the importance of creating an inclusive and supportive workplace for all. It serves as a powerful reminder of the impact women can have when they come together to support each other. It showcased the importance of women empowerment and the need to continue creating inclusive and supportive workplaces where all individuals, regardless of gender or industry, can thrive.

Azmeena Hussain OAM Delivers a Powerful Speech to The Attendees.

Lee Sammartino, Head of Business Growth & Acquisition at HostPlus

The Card Network gives away $100 gift cards to lucky winners

PARTNERS

KENO’S VIC DIGITAL ERA BEGINS

Keno’s launch of Victorian omni-channel play is creating greater enjoyment and synergy for customers, coupled with a distinct, new revenue stream for pubs.

The digital era of Keno was heralded in on 22 February when The Lottery Corporation launched the Victorian game online, literally putting it into the hands of hotel customers.

This final stage in the introduction of digital play, which aligns the game draws in Victorian hotels with the Keno App draw, was an Australian first for the country’s largest lottery company.

It was also a bold demonstration of its ongoing commitment to supporting the state’s hotels by rewarding eligible venues for helping bring the digital evolution to their patrons.

With the Keno App, hotel customers can have a synergistic and convenient experience inside their favourite pub, and more flexibility to play anywhere, anytime they want.

The Victorian Keno App is linked with the East-Coast jackpot pool, allowing customers

to play the same game as via traditional tickets sold through the Keno operator and Self-Service Terminals in-venue.

This means the games players purchase at and watch on their hotel’s Keno Display Screens, are the same as the ones they can buy and play on the Keno App.

Paddy O’Sullivan, CEO of AHA (Vic) said, “the launch of online play is a great opportunity for Victoria’s pubs and hotels to engage in the progression of the game. The new digital commission offering by Keno will enable pubs and hotels to unlock the benefits of promoting the online Keno platform invenue.”

He also noted “In rolling out the digital commission system, Keno, a key partner of AHA (Vic), understands the challenges and pressures placed on Victoria’s pubs and hotels in the current economic climate.”

Digital commissions bring new revenue stream

While omni-channel play has delivered customers with a more seamless way of playing, a major facet of its enablement is that it opens the door to the potential for hotels to earn digital commissions for the first time.

The attractive digital commission structure builds on the valuable in-venue revenue stream Keno offers partners and is set to further contribute to the Victorian hotel industry’s vitality and robustness.

“Omni-channel enablement in Victoria is a game-changing development, allowing Keno to augment the opportunities for hotels and their customers to benefit from consumer trends,” explains Paul Malek, Keno’s General Manager of Licenced Venue Operations.

“It represents a distinctly new prospect for hotels to grow their Keno sales and generate a steady, passive, revenue stream

WE WANT KENO TO BE A PART OF VICTORIANS’ EVERYDAY LIFE.

by embracing the latest technology and accommodating the way their customers like

“We want Keno to be a part of Victorians’ everyday life, reinforcing the fun and increasing the excitement of playing it in their favourite local hotel, as well as back our venue partners by providing a new way to bring revenue to their businesses.

“Keno is actively supporting hotels to do this through offering eligible venues commissions for games which their patrons play via the Keno App, regardless of whether they are inside their venue or not.

“Our business has been delivering the original and much-loved Keno game to Australians for generations, and we look forward to continuing to do so in Victoria with the support of our hotel partners.”

Results point to a profitable future

The success of the game’s digital presence is already apparent. In just two and half weeks, 64% of eligible venues had a customer play in venue and then also play out of venue, earning them a trailing commission at 50% of the standard commission rate.

Keno has paid out more than $29,000 in trailing commissions since launch – that’s over $600,000 in turnover from retail customers playing out of venue. In fact, Keno’s top two venues earnt $3,500 in trailing commission each for that period, equating to around $85,000 in turnover from their digital customers.

All of these early statistics point to a more profitable future for Keno’s Victorian partners in the months and years to come.

Hotel staff have also been swift to learn more about omni-channel play, with more than 400 operators jumping onto the Keno Training portal to understand how the digital offering works.

Keno is backing the launch in hotels with a host of digital and printed Point of Sale materials that encourages customers to download the App and play.

Go to the Keno Connect toolkit section to find out more about how digital commissions can benefit your hotel.

Contact your Keno Sales Executive to discuss moving to a Keno Access Fee (KAF) agreement to facilitate the opportunity to earn digital commissions.

OMNI-CHANNEL ENABLEMENT IN VICTORIA IS A GAME-CHANGING DEVELOPMENT.

What ZERO COST EFTPOS can do for you

PARTNERS

HOSTPLUS ‘BEST OF THE BEST’ AWARD WINNERS

HOSTPLUS WAS PROUD TO RECEIVE THREE ACCOLADES IN MONEY MAGAZINE’S ‘BEST OF THE BEST’ AWARDS FOR 2023.

Our Socially Responsible Investment – Balanced options for our super and retirement products were named the ‘Best Diversified ESG Super Product’ and ‘Best Diversified ESG Pension Product’. And our Balanced (MySuper) option was named the ‘Best MySuper Single Strategy Product’. This award recognises our Balanced option for its leading long-term performance, with the option continuing to rank #1 over 10 and 20 years, according to SuperRatings.1

While our key measure of success is what we deliver to our members, it’s nice to receive recognition from third parties like Money magazine. Awards like this help validate our continued focus on providing better retirement outcomes for members.

END-OF-YEAR PERFORMANCE IN 2022

Financial markets across the world endured a rocky 2022. One dominant factor drove the negative returns: inflation.

In these challenging market conditions, the median return for 50 balanced options in Australia was -4.76% for the year. Hostplus’ MySuper Balanced option delivered a 12-month return of -2.48%.1 Our Pension Balanced option delivered -2.76%.2

It may be worrying for members to see their super balances going down over the short term. But it’s important to remember that it’s the long-term returns that really count.

As mentioned, Hostplus members in our MySuper option are in the number-one performing balanced option over 20 years, according to SuperRatings. Across that time, it’s returned 8.11%.

That 20-year period includes occasional stretches of negative returns. It’s a normal, expected part of investing in assets like shares.

At Hostplus, we have a proven, diversified investment strategy. We invest not just in shares and bonds, but in a wide range of unlisted assets. These include property, infrastructure, private equity and alternatives. That diversification spreads your money across many different types of investments. It aims to smooth out the ups and downs of the markets.

ADVICE FOR THOSE WHO NEED IT

For members who would like help understanding how their super is performing, contact us today. We now offer greater

Fund Crediting Rate Survey – SR50 Balanced (60-76) Index, December 2022.

2. SuperRatings Pension Fund Crediting Rate Survey – SRP50 Balanced (60-76) Index, December 2022.

Issued by Host-Plus Pty Limited ABN 79 008 634 704, AFSL 244392 as trustee for the Hostplus Superannuation Fund (the Fund)

flexibility in our financial advice services. Our friendly and professional advice support officers are licensed to provide general advice at no additional cost. This means members can get general superannuation information faster. The team can be reached through our dedicated Hostplus Advice number – 1300 303 188.

If members are looking for personal advice about their Hostplus account relating to contributions, investments or insurance, these services are provided at no additional cost (and included as part of the membership fee). For more comprehensive personal advice about planning for retirement, our financial planners can help. Their flexible pricing structure, which starts at $295, gives your staff more control as they can decide the level of advice they want and pay for it as they go. That’s a plus.

Visit hostplus.com.au/financial-planning to find out more about our advice services. You can check out our brandnew website while you’re there.

This information is general advice only and does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider if this information is appropriate for you in light of your circumstances before acting on it. Please read the relevant Hostplus Product Disclosure Statement (PDS), available at hostplus.com.au before making a decision about Hostplus. For a description of the target market, please read the Target Market Determination (TMD), available at hostplus.com.au.

Net investment returns represent the rate of return on investments after investment-related fees, costs and taxes have been deducted. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance and should never be the sole factor considered when selecting a superannuation fund.

Money magazine awards are solely a statement of opinion and do not represent a recommendation to purchase, hold, or sell this product, or make any other investment decisions. Ratings are subject to change. Ratings are only one factor to be taken into account when deciding to invest. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. Go to moneymag.com.au for details of its ratings criteria.

Hostplus is a top-performing super fund that puts members first. That’s why we’re proud to have been named the 2023 Fund of the Year by third-party ratings agency SuperRatings. Judged across three areas: strong performance, competitive fees, and an ongoing focus on members, we’re thrilled to receive this recognition.

The rating is issued by SuperRatings Pty Ltd ABN 95 100 192 283 AFSL 311880 (SuperRatings). Ratings are general advice only and have been prepared without taking account of your objectives, fi nancial situation or needs. Consider your personal circumstances, read the product disclosure statement and seek independent fi nancial advice before investing. The rating and awards are not recommendation to purchase, sell or hold any product and are only one factor to be taken into account when choosing a super fund. Past performance information is not indicative of future performance. Ratings are subject to change without notice and SuperRatings assumes no obligation to update. SuperRatings uses objective criteria and receives a fee for publishing awards. Visit www.lonsec.com.au/superfund/ratings-and-awards/ for ratings information and to access the full report. © 2022 SuperRatings. All rights reserved. General advice only. Consider the relevant Hostplus PDS and TMD at hostplus.com.au and your objectives, fi nancial situation and needs, which have not been accounted for. Awards and ratings are only one factor to consider. Host-Plus Pty Limited ABN 79 008 634 704, AFSL 244392 trustee for Hostplus Superannuation Fund, ABN 68 657 495 890. HP2388

NEW PARTNERS

INVICIUM PRINT MANAGEMENT

Invicium Print Management is an Australian owned, Melbourne based business that began in 1991 as a print management specialist. Decades later, Invicium has evolved into a multifaceted organisation overseeing a broader range of services, spanning across the printing, signage, apparel, warehousing and logistics management arena.

A long term provider to the Liquor industry, Invicium is well qualified to provide all the necessary marketing services support to the AHA (Vic) membership base. Coupled with a customer centric service ethos, the simplicity and satisfaction will be evident from the very first conversation.

Tim Campisi tim@invicium.com.au

0422 214 413

CHEF’S HAT

Chef’s Hat is the largest family-owned and operated hospitality supplier in Australia, stocking the most comprehensive range of hospitality equipment from world-renowned brands to service the needs of the Australian Hospitality industry.

Chef’s Hat also offer support and consultation services to all clients, big or small. From a venue’s concept design to the final touches, Chef’s Hat have been trusted to provide advice and equipment for industry leaders such as Crown Melbourne, Victorian Racing Club and a large number of pubs and hotels across Victoria.

SOLAR ENERGY ENTERPRISES

Solar Energy Enterprises is the Australian Hotel Industry’s trusted renewable energy partner. Their extensive experience includes managing multi - site rollouts for the likes of Laundy, Oscars, O’Hara and Malloy Hotel Groups, and instal ling for some of Australia’s most renowned hotels. Solar Energy Enterprises has built their reputation on delivering projects to the highest standard, with the knowledge and support required to maximise your energy savings.

At the forefront of technology a nd with a holistic view to energy usage, Solar Energy Enterprises offers a dynamic product range including solar PV systems, ESG Reports, PPAs, solar batteries, carbon offsetting, customised electricity tariffs and EV chargers.

NEW members

Sadik Ardolli sa@chefshat.com.au

call 0409 254 423

Adam Dragic adam@solarenergyenterprises.com.au

0404 944 449

HOTEL BELLINZONA

HEPBURN SPRINGS

TONY BARRADALE

ACCOMMODATION HOTEL

Hotel Bellinzona is a landmark.

From the turn of the 20th century to the present day, luxury and regional splendour, a blending of cultures.

We have 43 beautifully appointed rooms. Attentive service, bespoke decor, a revitalising sojourn, Hotel Bellinzona has a remarkable curated flair.

Your number one destination, a regional staple that inspires a longing to return.

Eat, drink, rest.

AHA (Vic) Partner Directory

ACCOUNTING AND BUSINESS ADVISORY SERVICES

SW Accountants & Advisors www.sw-au.com

Tim Stillwell

tstillwell@sw-au.com

03 86351861

Charman Partners www.charmanpartners.com.au

David Gow

david@charmanpartners.com.au

03 9878 8200

HTL Capital htlproperty.com.au

Matthew Wright Matthew.wright@htlcapital.com.au 0423 182 144

Pacific Business Partners www.pacificbusinesspartners.com.au

Alistair Jarvis alistair@pacificca.com.au 0412 811 702

BEVERAGE SUPPLIERS

Australian Liquor Marketers (ALM) www.almliquor.com.au

Jeremy Goodale

jeremy.goodale@almliquor.com.au

03 8368 6333

Campari Group www.camparigroup.com/en

Peta Hemphill peta.hemphill@campari.com 0488 235 712

Carlton & United Breweries www.cub.com.au

Tim Powell tim.powell@cub.com.au

03 9420 6468 I 0417 416 050

Coca-Cola Europacific Partners www.ccamatil.com

Justin Mckenzie justin.mckenzie@ccep.com

0400 637 085

CUB Premium Beverages www.asahipremiumbeverages.com

Simon Grant simon.grant@cub.com.au 0411 205 161

Diageo Australia www.diageo.com

Lucy Perkins lucy.perkins@diageo.com 0490 301 970

Lion www.lionco.com

Matt Windsor matthew.windsor@lionco.com 03 9277 5826 I 0417 262 270

Nakedlife Non-Alc Spirits www.nakedlifespirits.com.au/ pages/aha-vic-trade-offer

Edward Shrimplin ed@nakedlife.com.au 0478 658 663

Superdrop www.idlehourvodka.com Ewen Pettit ewen@idlehourvodka.com

Top Shelf International www.topshelfgroup.com.au

Rick Maplestone rick.maplestone@topshelfgroup.com.au 0419 556 605

Treasury Wine Estates www.treasurywineestates.com

Neil Grant neil.grant@tweglobal.com 0412107 764

ATM

AND EFTPOS CASH OUT

SUPPLIERS

Banktech Group www.banktech.com.au

Michael Queale michaelq@banktech.com.au 0408 462 321

NEXT Payments www.nextpayments.com.au

John Bakker jbakker@nextpayments.com.au 0418 500 868

AHA (Vic) Partner Directory

AUDIO, LIGHTING & STAGING

Jands www.jands.com.au

Ilias Sintrikos ISintrikos@jands.com.au

0408 506 620

BANKING SERVICES

Commonwealth Bank www.commbank.com.au

Steven Chapman Steven.Chapman@cba.com.au

0436 820 085

BOOKKEEPING

OnTap Hospitality www.on-tap.com.au

Freddie Deegan freddie@on-tap.com.au 03 8779 6505

BUILDING MATERIALS

Bunnings www.bunnings.com.au

Laura Downes ldownes@bunnings.com.au 0439 852 394

BUILDING AND INTERIORS DESIGN GROUP

TM Design Group www.tmdg.com.au

Ian Macklin imacklin@tmdg.com.au 0417 147 110

BUILDING AND MAINTENANCE SERVICES

Johns Lyng Group www.johnslyng.com.au

Jake Pantas jpantas@johnslyng.com.au 0427 971350

CASH SOLUTIONS

Authentic Security www.authenticsecurity.com.au

Adam Lowdell alowdell@authenticsecurity.com.au

0475 832 770

CLEANING SERVICES

KADD Facility Group www.kaddfacilitygroup.com.au

Nick Bailey nick.bailey@kaddfg.com.au

03 9545 5759

DEFIBRILLATORS

AED Authority aedauthority.com.au

Wayne Thomas wayne@aedauthority.com.au

0437 803 353

DIGITAL MARKETING

Impact Data www.impactdata.com.au

Sarah Franklyn sarah.franklyn@impactdata.com.au

03 9827 7790

AHA (Vic) Partner Directory

EFTPOS & PAYMENTS

Oolio Pay www.oolio.com

Samuel Benjamin samuel.b@oolio.com

0425 302 354

Zeller www.myzeller.com

Chris Rich chris.rich@myzeller.com

0422 269 315

ENERGY

Solar Energy Enterprises www.solarenergyenterprises.com.au

Adam Dragic adam@solarenergyenterprises.com.au 0404 944 449

Trans Tasman Energy Group www.tteg.com.au

Craig Marschall cmarschall@tteg.com.au 1300 118 834

Energis www.energis.com.au steven@energis.com 0418 317170

ENERGY DRINK

Red Bull Australia www.redbull.com.au

Zane Hudson zane.hudson@redbull.com 03 9647 7402 I 0423 799 371

EVENT STAGING

Encore Event Technologies www.encore-anzpac.com

Catrina Bennell catrina.bennell@encore-anzpac.com.au 0408 679 958

EQUIPMENT LEASE AND RENTAL SOLUTIONS

Silver Chef www.silverchef.com.au

Cam Hardy cameron.hardy@silverchef.com.au 0436 699 009

FINANCE SOLUTIONS

Berkley Capital Partners www.bcpartners.com.au

Wal Constable wal.constable@bcpartners.com.au 0422 009 639

FOODSERVICE EQUIPMENT

Comcater www.comcater.com.au

Matthew Crozier m.crozier@comcater.com.au 0475 777 006

Chef’s Hat www.chefshat.com.au

Sadik Ardolli sa@chefshat.com.au 0409 254 423

FOOD SERVICE DISTRIBUTORS

PFD Food Services

www.pfdfoods.com.au

Gavin Keegan gkeegan@pfdfoods.com.au 0457184 505

Nestle Professional www.nestleprofessional.com.au

Amanda Stamp amanda.stamp@au.nestle.com 0418 619 814

FURNITURE & REFURBISHMENT SPECIALISTS

Strand Hospitality Furniture www.strandhospitalityfurniture.com.au

Rob Lens rob@strand.furniture 0422 049 355 | 03 9421 4717

AHA (Vic) Partner Directory

GAMING

Keno www.keno.com.au

Jade Clark jade.clark@thelotterycorporation.com

0400 941 728

Tabcorp www.tabcorp.com.au

Paul Carew carewp@tabcorp.com.au

03 9868 24281 | 0439 398 761

GAMING MACHINE MANUFACTURERS

Aristocrat www.aristocrattechnologies.com

Matt Mccarroll matt.mccarroll@aristocrat.com

03 9644 1000 I 0438 457 246

Konami www.konami.com/en

Matt Stuart stuart0307@konamigaming.com

0419 245 023

Light & Wonder

Sandra Renwick srenwick@lnw.com

0420 315 461

GAS SUPPLIER (CYLINDER & BULK)

Supagas www.supagas.com.au

Leigh Street LeighStreet@supagas.com.au

0410 533 941

GIFT CARDS

The Card Network www.pubandbar.gift

Hannah Clarke hannah@tcnpayments.com

0406 172 797

HOSPITALITY TECHNOLOGY

MrYum www.about.mryum.com

Asher Jonas asher@mryum.com

0425148 722

Operandio operandio.com/aha

Daniel Scoble

daniel@operandio.com

0422 398 294

ICE MAKING EQUIPMENT AND SERVICES

Coast Ice & Cold Solutions www.coastdistributors.com.au

William Knott william@coastdistributions.com.au

0466 180 024

IMMIGRATION ADVICE & PROCESSING

Absolute Immigration Services www.absoluteimmigration.com

Majlinda Lulo majlinda.lulo@absoluteimmigration.com

1300 227 658

INSURANCE

Adroit Insurance and Risk www.adroit.com.au

Travis Noffke travisn@adroit.com.au

0419 299 402

Bupa www.bupa.com.au/corporate

Katie Dolling katie.dolling@bupa.com.au

AHA (Vic) Partner Directory

IT MANAGEMENT

Efex www.efex.com.au

David Rose david.rose@efex.com.au 0478116112

JUKEBOXES & POOL TABLES

Armada www.amarda.com.au

Con Frances cfrances@amarda.com.au 0487 555 445

LIQUOR, GAMING & PLANNING LAWYERS

BSP Lawyers www.bsplawyers.com.au

Alison Elverd aelverd@bsplawyers.com.au

Elizabeth Priddle epriddle@bsplawyers.com.au 03 9670 0722

Wisewould Mahony www.wisewoulds.com.au

Tony Joyce tony.joyce@wisemah.com.au

Paul Ryan paul.ryan@wisemah.com.au 0418 393 535

LIQUOR BUYING GROUPS

United Innkeeper Association

Thirsty Camel/ Liquor $avers/Drink Link www.thirstycamel.com.au

Adrian Moelands adrianm@thirstycamel.com.au 0408 871 629

Liquor Marketing Group www.lmg.com.au

Chris Christofi cchristofi@lmg.com.au 0401 714 257

MEDIA

The Age www.theage.com.au

Marina Caccavari mcaccavari@fairfaxmedia.com.au 0439 773 584

MUSIC SOLUTIONS

Nightlife Music www.nightlife.com.au

Chris Condoleon chris@nightlife.com.au (07) 3858 2565

OIL MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS

Cookers Oil www.cookers.com.au

Robbie Coccaro rcoccaro@cookers.com.au 0447 474 425

OUTDOOR HEATING SOLUTIONS

Thermofilm www.thermofilm.com.au

Greg Trezise g.trezise@thermofilm.com.au 0402127 375

OUTSOURCED ACCOMMODATION SERVICE

PROVIDER

ahs hospitality www.ahshospitality.com.au

Leanne Graham lgraham@ahshospitality.com.au 0417 698 639

AHA (Vic) Partner Directory

PAY TV

Foxtel for Business www.foxtelbusiness.com.au

Mark Bishop mark.bishop@foxtel.com.au

0409 468 042

Stan Sport www.stan.com.au

Tim Fishwick tim.fishwick@stan.com.au

0416 208 417

PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT

Invicium www.invicium.com.au

Tim Campisi tim@invicium.com.au 0422 214 413

PRINT MANAGEMENT

Rhino Play www.rhinoplay.com.au

Adi Soerjanto adi@rhinoplay.com.au 0410 025 898

POINT OF SALE SYSTEMS

Bepoz www.bepoz.com.au

James Verlaque jamesv@vectron.com.au 03 9328 8222 I 0426 227 040

H & L Australia www.hlaustralia.com.au

Ben Williams ben.williams@aspiresoftware.com 0421 748 010

RECRUITMENT

Lorg Talent www.lorgtalent.com

Seamus Taaffe staaffe@lorgtalent.com 0419 360 210

REFRIGERATION

United Refrigeration www.unitedrefrig.com.au

Dean Ferraro dean@unitedrefrig.com.au 0448 994 446

RESERVATION SOFTWARE

Now Book It www.nowbookit.com

Megan Mclennan megan@nowbookit.com 0428 938 089

SNACKFOOD SUPPLIER

The Smith’s Snackfood Company www.smiths.com.au

Wayne McConnell wayne.mcconnell@pepsico.com 0412 806 907

SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT

Fanzo www.fanzo.com.au

Jonathan Richards jono@fanzo.com 0423 557 691

AHA (Vic) Partner Directory

SUPERANNUATION

HOSTPLUS

www.hostplus.com.au

Amy Dicker adicker@hostplus.com.au

03 8636 7713 I 0437 591 645

TOBACCO SUPPLIER

British American Tobacco Australia www.bata.com.au

Nicholas Booth nicholas_booth@bat.com 0414 783 608

TRAINING

AVTES

www.avtes.com.au

Chris Fitzgibbon chris@avtes.com.au 0457 771 334

Typsy www.typsy.com

Jeremy Guard jeremy@typsy.com 0413 397 063

William Angliss Institute of TAFE www.angliss.edu.au

Brendan Clennett brendan.clennett@angliss.edu.au 03 9606 2447

VALUERS AND PROPERTY BROKERS

Charter Keck Cramer www.charterkc.com.au

Tony Close tony.close@charterkc.com.au

03 8102 8873 | 0407 510 025

CRE Brokers www.crebrokers.com

Phil Mammolito phil@crebrokers.com.au 0438 371 094

VISUAL ENTERTAINMENT SOLUTIONS

Big Screen Video www.bigscreenvideo.com.au

Craig Thomson craig@bigscreenvideo.com.au 1300 BIG SCREEN | 0418 531 802

WORKFORCE MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE

Tanda www.tanda.co

Nick Braban nick.braban@tanda.co 0402 846 900

WORK FROM HOSPO

Third Place www.cityofmelbourne.crd.co

Dean Katz brett@third-place.org 0413 497 225

AHA (VIC) principal partners

(VIC) corporate partners

AHA