CEO UPDATE
Steve Old - THA CEO
The 2021 Awards for Excellence was one of the most important and indeed emotional events in my 14 years at the THA. At a time when our main tourism markets in Victoria and New South Wales were dealing with chaotic outbreaks and repeated industry shutdowns, simply holding the awards was a testament to the hard work and resilience of our decision makers and our industry. I think everyone who was able to attend the evening would agree that being able to come together with 480 industry representatives was really special after the challenges of the last 18 months. I said it on the Awards night, but I really do want to thank some people who have supported myself personally and the industry over the last 18 months. To the Premier, I thank you for your tenacity, your fierce protection of the state and its people, and your understanding of the issues that face our hospitality operators. At times, we had some pretty robust conversations but I know that we were both fighting for the best interests and the protection of our stakeholders and I wholeheartedly appreciate your efforts and importantly your care over this time. There were occasions when the Premier’s number popped up on my phone late at night, and I’d fear the worst as I answered. But on the other end was a “How you going Steve? You coping ok?” And it’s the mark of a man that is able to do that, and Tasmania is so lucky to have a Premier who has put everyone else first during such an unprecedented time. Similarly, I want to thank the Minister for Hospitality, Sarah Courtney who has also had the Health portfolio on her plate during this time. From industry I want to thank Sarah for her efforts to support industry and operators.
I also want to thank opposition leader and shadow Hospitality and Events minister Rebecca White, who has been steadfast in her support of the industry and holding the government to account, and we’re pleased that Bec will maintain this portfolio and we look forward to working with her and her cabinet. I would like to thank the THA Staff and Board for their hardwork and suport. The board roles are volunteer positions and the board gives up their time to support myself and the industry. To my wife, Lisa and my children Kalia, Xavier and Victoria I can’t thank you enough for your unwavering support that enabled me to work through this time. To be presented (and surprised) by a Special Award from the Premier at the Awards for Excellence was truly special and appreciated. Seeing the sustainability and prosperity of our members and our industry is my priority but it is of course lovely to have the hard work recognised. So thank you to the THA team and to the Premier for the kind words and acknowledgement. Of course the work does not stop, times are still uncertain and our industry is still facing massive challenges as interstate lockdowns significantly impact the sector. I look forward to continuing to support our industry to thrive into the future and strive for excellence.
THA HOSPITALITY—REVIEW: AUGUST 2021 | 7
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