HOSPITALITY REVIEW TASMANIAN February/March 2025
More Than Just a Gig
Why Live Music Matters for Tasmania’s Venues, Communities and Culture
Also Inside: Golf’s Next Big Swing | ECHO Festival | Tas Wine Awards
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Tasmanian Hospitality Review Oct/Nov Edition
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
President Update 5 CEO Update 7 FEATURE: Golf Entertainment Precincts 9-14
Events Calendar 15 Minister Update 17
Opposition Leader Update 19 FEATURE: Live Music 20-25 Women in Leadership Update 28-29 Liquor and Gaming 30 Membership Update 31 Corporate Update 32 Workforce Development Update 33 Great Customer Experience Update 35-37 Business Events Tasmania 38 FEATURE: Tas Wine Awards 39-41
Golf Entertainment Precinct Redevelopments
HOSPO Health Update 42-43 Clubs Tasmania Update 44-45 FEATURE: ECHO Festival 46-47 Tourism Tasmania Update 52 Hospitality Dr 53 Corporate Glossary 54-55
ECHO Festival
Cover Photo: Hannah Brereton at the Longley International. Picture: Richard Jupe
TASMANIAN HOSPITALITY REVIEW BY
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Tasmanian Hospitality Review Oct/Nov Edition
PRESIDENT UPDATE
Welcome to 2025! I hope everyone has had a busy summer period, the feeling around the state is that trade has been good. With a federal election on the horizon, our hospitality industry waits with bated breath on what policy announcements will be made to benefit our sector. Unfortunately – but unsurprisingly – the latest hike in alcohol excise tax has come into effect. As a sector that already operates on razor-thin margins in the current economic climate, the twice a year increases in alcohol tax are not only hurting small businesses but are now directly impacting jobs and livelihoods across Tasmania. The twice-yearly tax on alcohol increases in February and August may seem like a mere statistic to some, but they represent a real and pressing concern for operators who are already grappling with the pressures of rising costs like insurance, supply chain disruptions, and ever-increasing energy costs. These excise tax increases hit hospitality venues hard, giving businesses no choice but to either raise their prices or absorb the hidden tax. Neither option is sustainable, and in a post-pandemic environment, the last thing our sector needs is further burdens placed on it.
look at this policy. Our national body, as well as other peak associations in the alcohol sector, is calling for action on this double dip tax hike to provide much- needed relief. Without action, the price of socialising with friends is out of reach, having a devastating impact on employment in the hospitality sector, particularly in regional areas where we depend on it the most. This is the 83rd time this tax has gone up since 1983, and enough is enough. However, there is potential hope on the horizon. Opposition Leader Peter Dutton recently announced a policy aimed at supporting small businesses he would implement if the Liberals win the federal election. This proposal for a tax deduction of up to $20,000 for businesses entertaining clients in restaurants, cafes, and pubs is a welcome initiative. This is a start in addressing some of the challenges faced by those in the hospitality industry. This policy could provide a much-needed boost to our sector, encouraging spending in local businesses and stimulating demand at a time when it’s needed the most. We remain firm in our request for action on the twice a year excise increase and will continue to fight for measures to support small businesses. I believe revitalising our hospitality industry is crucial, for all governments and will continue to advocate for any measure to help to this end.
As we enter another year of tax increases, it is vital that the federal government takes a serious and urgent
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Tasmanian Hospitality Review Oct/Nov Edition
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Tasmanian Hospitality Review Oct/Nov Edition
CEO UPDATE
Welcome all to 2025, I trust the summer period has treated you well. It has been great to see a hive of activity around the state with a number of festivals and events drawing people to regions far and wide. Hopefully it has provided a spike to all venues to help start the year on a positive note. One of our key advocacy priorities this year is addressing payroll tax. This has been a long-standing issue for many hospitality businesses, particularly small to medium-sized operators. We’ll be pushing for reforms that ease this burden and allow businesses to reinvest in growth and their people. Similarly, we’re closely monitoring the delays in the new Spirit of Tasmania vessels. These ferries are essential not just for tourism but also for freight, and the ongoing delays impact our ability to attract visitors and maintain supply chains efficiently. Operational costs continue to rise across the board, from utilities to supplier expenses, creating significant pressure on margins. Coupled with this, workforce challenges remain a focal point. The THA is committed to future-proofing our workforce through training, retention initiatives, and partnerships that create clear career pathways.
Customer Experience (GCE) program continues to set the benchmark for service excellence, while our Women in Leadership initiative is empowering more women to take on key roles in hospitality. Additionally, our HospoHealth program is making great strides in improving the physical and mental wellbeing of those working in the industry. I’m particularly excited about a new partnership with Lifeline Tasmania. This collaboration will see us offering free mental health first aid courses to hospitality staff, a crucial step in building capacity and resilience within our industry. Those who have or obtain a MHFA certificate will also be invited to join a pilot program designed specifically to support mental health first aid officers. With mental health challenges on the rise, it’s vital we assist our people so they can thrive both professionally and personally. As we move forward, our focus remains steadfast: to advocate for the needs of our members, provide support through innovative programs, and drive positive change across the sector. While the challenges ahead are significant, I’m confident that with the collective strength of our industry, we can navigate these hurdles and ensure a prosperous future for Tasmanian hospitality.
Our programs are central to this effort. The Great
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Tasmanian Hospitality Review Oct/Nov Edition
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Tasmanian Hospitality Review Oct/Nov Edition
Teeing Up New Golf Entertainment INDUSTRY FEATURE
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Tasmanian Hospitality Review Oct/Nov Edition GOLF PARK HOBART MANAGER COCO CHEN
BRYCE GORHAM (LEFT) AND DAN MAHAR ARE OVERSEEING THE GOLF PRECINCT REDEVELOPMENT AT COUNTRY CLUB IN LAUNCESTON
Two decades after Barnbougle put Tasmania on the global stage to help trigger a tourism drawcard market, golf continues to be a major attraction for both tourists and locals. And while some of the best ranked courses in the country are on the state’s doorstep, it is the development of “entertainment hubs” which will continue to keep the ball rolling. W hen Barnbougle Dunes opened its doors to the world in December 2004, it was hard to envisage the impact it would have putting Tasmania front and centre as a golfing destination. The spectacular links- style layout quickly rocketed into the top few courses in the country, and kickstarted what has been a golden period for the sport in the state. Fast forward 20 years and Tasmania has three of the most widely perceived top five courses in the country – the Dunes and neighbour Lost Farm as well as the majestic Cape Wickham on King Island, which opened for play in 2015. Throw in King Island’s second stunning 18-hole offering Ocean Dunes, the 14-hole Bougle Run and both Tasmania Golf Club and Royal Hobart in the south, which are all ranked in Golf Australia’s top 100 courses, and there is a week’s worth of premium availability for even the most fanatical golfer. Yet there
is still more to come for the game’s enthusiasts, with Mathew Goggin’s Seven Mile Beach course nearing the point of allowing players onto the turf, and the Country Club in Launceston in the midst of a massive redevelopment of a new 18-hole reconfiguration which is expected to be open for play in 2026. “It’s definitely snowballing now,” Country Club’s head of golf operations Bryce Gorham says of Tasmania’s standing as a golfing destination. “With Barny having those two courses, the par three course and another one in the pipeline and then Mathew Goggin with his Seven Mile and Five Mile in the pipeline, then you’ve got King Island added to those and then us, it’s a destination now for a very specific type of golf with the links styling. “But I still believe we’re untapped in the world of golf trips and all that type of stuff, and then adding ours with the different genre of golf course with a Parkland sort of feel, and having a very big fleet of carts, which those other courses won’t have, it puts us in that different category of almost luxurious golf where you could sit back and watch your screen and get your GPS tracker out, and have food delivered to you out on the course, versus the ruggedness of the links style.
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Tasmanian Hospitality Review Oct/Nov Edition
THE COUNTRY CLUB MINI GOLF COURSE, WITH CONSTRUCTION OF THE DRIVING RANGE CLUB HOUSE
“It is a very big market down here that’s not quite tapped fully yet. I think a seven to 10-day trip can be easily done [once all the courses are operational], you tag in a couple of days for actually doing touristy stuff and to keep your partners happy, but a seven to 10-day golf trip will definitely be on the cards 100 per cent.” While the Seven Mile Beach and Country Club 18- hole courses will leave hardcore golfing enthusiasts salivating, there is another side to the golfing popularity boom which is already capturing another section of the market. Alongside the course redevelopment at the Country Club is the creation of the state’s first two- story “Top Golf” driving range facility with 28 bays split across dual levels. This includes a new clubhouse style building which will contain a bar, restaurant and cafe, as well as meeting rooms, a party room and a lounge area. One side of the building will face onto the driving range, while the other will overlook a brand new 18- hole mini golf course. Both these new facilities are expected to be open to the public mid-year, creating an entertainment precinct aiming to capture golfers of all ages and abilities. “That’s definitely the market that we’re after. We don’t want to hone-in on just the golfer. We want families to be at the Country Club. We want couples and date
nights to be held here, you can go and play mini golf and then jump in and have a feed,” says Country Club’s Venue Operations Manager Dan Mahar. “We’re talking all walks of life, grandma and grandpa to bring the grandkids, school groups, corporate groups, you name it. We will have a facility that caters for all demographics. “We don’t want to hone-in on just the golfer. We want families to be at the Country Club. We want couples and date nights to be here.” - Dan Mahar “There’s a couple of different types of ranges. Obviously, you’ve got the indoor ranges like X Golf and WillFit Golf in Launceston and what differentiates us from them, is the fact that you can see the ball flight, you can actually see how far the ball’s gone. If I want to work on being able to draw the ball or just hit it straight, they’re the sorts of things you can actually see, whereas the simulators that are set up and that are part of the market now, that’s the bit that you miss. Importantly, it’s not just the tourists that are going to benefit from this either, it’s the locals as well.
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Tasmanian Hospitality Review Oct/Nov Edition
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: THE COUNTRY CLUB GOLF COURSE RE-DESIGN, THE OPENING HOLE TEE SHOT (ABOVE) AND AN AERIAL VIEW OF THE MINI GOLF COURSE AND DRIVING RANGE (RIGHT)
“Up here, there’s a lack of entertainment out of normal business hours in Launceston and the greater Launceston area as a whole. So you’re looking after locals and those Launcestonians that are crying out for things like this. Young families for instance, what do they do on the weekend with the kids? Bring them to the driving range and the mini golf. It’s something that’s unheard of. It hasn’t been an option in the past and to provide that is really exciting.” A s the anticipation builds towards the driving range opening in the north, it has been full steam ahead down south at Golf Park Hobart, situated near the airport at Cambridge. Re-opened in October 2023 following an extensive renovation to bring the range into the 21st century, the Golf Park has gone from strength to strength with the transformation of the facility unfolding in front of the eyes of the public. What started with the bays to modernize the equipment and install top tracer technology has grown into the recent completion of the main building area, as well as an outdoor 18-hole mini-golf course for some extra fun.
sharpen their games to those swinging a club for the first time. The Party Bays proved extremely popular leading into the Christmas-New Year period, while the school holidays influx saw more than 15,000 balls daily being hit on the range. “It has been a huge change. We had a lot of old customers who have been coming to the range for maybe 10, 20, years and every single day we have those people coming in and just being blown away by the change,” says Manager Coco Chen. “We’ve been very busy since we opened. Just families, kids, friends, buck’s parties, birthday parties, they’ve just kept
Like the Country Club, the Golf Park aims to create an entertainment hub, catering from those looking to
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Tasmanian Hospitality Review Oct/Nov Edition
THE DRIVING BAYS AT GOLF PARK HOBART
coming non stop and especially the mini golf as well, that has been a big hit since opening.
“We didn’t expect this many, especially with young golfers. We were more just thinking that maybe 30-year-old plus golfers will be here mostly, and then we’re just surprised at how many younger golfers are here all the time. The end goal was to create an entertainment space for everyone, not just professional golfers or golfers in general. If someone’s never played golf before, you’re welcome to be here and this is what we have already achieved now. “The end goal was to create an entertainment space for everyone, not just professional golfers or golfers in general.” - Coco Chen “We have recently finished the indoor cafe with food and beverages, so say, a mum can stay inside and have a drink while the kids are outside playing golf. Golf can be intimidating sometimes, but we want to break that mould. And with the mini golf and everything here now, it is just more entertainment.”
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Blessed with an abundance of land on site, the brainstorming never ends for Coco and her team, who are continually looking at what else can be added to enhance what is already on offer. An extension of the 20-plus bays is already in the pipeline, while other non- golf activities aren’t out of the question to draw even more people through the gates. “There is so much we can do, just because we have so much land. We’re having all sort of ideas every day, we’re having brainstorming sessions to see what we can do. We do have a few ideas like pickleball or axe throwing as well, so we are thinking all the time, just trying to see what else we can do to make this place better.”
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Tasmanian Hospitality Review Oct/Nov Edition
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Tasmanian Hospitality Review Oct/Nov Edition
EDITORIAL
Minister for Hospitality and Small Business Jane Howlett
When it comes to business, Tasmania is in good shape.
recognised training and other support to address the current workforce priorities, as well as working with the Tasmanian Hospitality Association on the Club’s Tasmania Program to build capability of community clubs and RSLs in training, HR, budgeting and other operational practices. We will continue the ongoing work of the THA under the Hospitality 2030 Strategy, including regional in- dustry engagement via the Regional Tourism Organi- sations, promoting the hospitality industry, supporting events, sustainability goals, workforce development and, importantly, promoting hospitality careers path- ways in schools. The THA’s Great Customer Experience Program has been a success with around 900 venues taking part. State Growth is working with venue managers and staff to improve business operations and elevate the customer experience. We are continuing to support the hospitality indus- try’s supporting women in leadership program, which is providing the opportunity for women to upskill and inspiring them to undertake roles in leadership. There were 15 scholarships awarded in the second intake in 2024 and I am sure this will see a greater representa- tion of women in these roles in the hospitality industry in the long-term. Many small business owners have told us that one of the difficulties in attracting workers to regional areas is the problem of accommodation.
Our State is a great place to invest and explore new opportunities and current business conditions that put Tasmania ahead of most other state’s reflect that. With good conditions comes confidence. As I travel around the State visiting small business, they tell me they are optimistic about the future and are experienc- ing strong demand for their products and services. In the tourism and hospitality sector there has been a promising start to the new year, showing great resil- ience following the ups and downs of recent years. The iconic Taste of Summer festival has celebrated increased visitor numbers, Festivale sold out in record time and smaller celebrations around Tasmania are reporting good patronage. This comes as no surprise and speaks volumes about the popularity of Tassie produce, hospitality and entertainment. An important part of our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasma- nia’s Future is to provide support to our hospitality and small businesses so they have the confidence to grow, invest and create jobs. The Government has worked closely with the Tas- manian Small Business Council and the Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry to find ways to progress the opportunities available to business and build capacity. This month, I unveiled the final version of the 2026 Small Business Growth Strategy Imple- mentation Plan which is guiding the work being done by the Tasmanian Government and the private sector to help businesses. We have been involved in a wide range of work includ- ing hosting business networking events that encour- age peer to peer mentoring and strategic business relationships. We are providing funding for Visitor Experience Train- ing to support training activity that targets areas of need in the hospitality and tourism sectors.
We are working with the Office of the Coordinator General to find a solution to this issue.
There are 131 activities identified in the Small Business Growth Strategy, with more than 90 per cent of them either completed, in progress or ongoing. The Tasmanian Government is delivering on our com- mitment to engage with hospitality and small business sector so businesses can grow in the way they choose.
Together we can grow new opportunities that will strengthen the industry.
The Government is providing, through Skills Tasma- nia, a range of programs for the delivery of nationally
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Tasmanian Hospitality Review Oct/Nov Edition
EDITORIAL
Labor Leader Dean Winter
I recently had the opportunity to be a part of the annual McHappy Day charity event and work at my local Maccas in Kingston. It was a great experience and what impressed me most were the youngsters who showed me the ropes. Chantelle, who was supervising my efforts, and the other team members were not just effective and competent, they were patient with me.
Australian Bureau of Statistics show that on average for the 12 months to December, 10.5 per cent of Tasmanians aged between 15 and 24 years were unemployed, and Tasmania’s workforce participation rate is the worst in the nation. Since Jeremy Rockliff’s Liberal State Government has been in minority, 8700 full-time jobs have been lost in the state.
Most importantly, they are happy to work together as a team, committed and proud of what they do.
These alarming figures lay bare the importance of starter jobs for our state.
My short Maccas stint highlighted something about hospitality. It’s the industry that gives many young Tasmanians their first taste of formal work, be it in local cafes, restaurants and fast-food operations. Any Labor leader worthy of the title will tell you that all jobs are important, but some jobs are special: without a first job, there won’t be other jobs. First jobs help young people move into adulthood and work out what they want to do. They teach people to show up, learn their tasks, be part of a team and take pride in their work.
Census data shows that accommodation and food services was the leading industry employing young Tasmanians, providing 21 per cent of jobs for those aged 15 to 24. Obviously, not everyone who has their first job in hospitality will stay in the industry – but many choose to, with a range of career options and training available. Tasmania’s hospitality and visitor economy have been spectacularly successful in showcasing to the world what makes our state special. Along the way, this sector is offering employment opportunities to one in five of our young working people. Helping young Tasmanians build their lives and careers here is worth supporting. It’s also enjoyable: from fast food to fine dining, every bite and every sip creates local jobs.
These are truly transferable skills that set young people up for success.
It is of great concern to me and my Labor colleagues that Tasmania’s youth unemployment remains persistently high.
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Tasmanian Hospitality Review Oct/Nov Edition 20 Keeping The Beat Going INDUSTRY FEATURE
FORTH PUB MANAGING DIRECTOR TRENT ALLEN (LEFT) AND ABOVE: HOBART MUSICIAN TOM BOOTH PLAYS AT THE EASY TIGER ON THE EAST COAST. PICS: RICHARD JUPE
The hospitality industry and live music have always shared a symbiotic relationship, each amplifying the other’s energy and appeal. However, the pandemic dealt a staggering blow to live music venues worldwide, and Tasmania has been no exception. Five years on, the echoes of that disruption are still felt as venues grapple with the rising costs and logistical hurdles of bringing live performances back to their spaces. L ive music is an integral part of the Tasmanian hospitality scene. From solo acoustic acts complimenting a laid-back weekend lunch vibe to the bands inspiring late-night dance floors, it provides artists, both up and coming and those already established, a platform to perform, while giving patrons and venues an unmatched ambience. Live music transforms venues, adding a unique energy that recorded music often cannot replicate. It creates memorable experiences that keep patrons coming back. And with genres ranging from jazz to rock, to blues and swing, live music caters to a broad audience, helping venues attract varied demographics.
putting on live acts. To better understand the state of live music in Tasmania’s hospitality scene, the THA embarked on a comprehensive exploration, diving into a project to find out how venues around the state feel about the industry, its importance in enhancing customer experience, driving foot traffic and revenue and building community and cultural connections. The stark reality for many venues is that hosting live music has become an expensive endeavour – often producing little or no profit. Yet despite the knowledge he might not fully recoup costs for putting on an act, Scott Seymour, who runs multiple venues on the North West Coast including Penguin Beer Co, says it is almost a non-negotiable having a slot for live music on the weekends. “If you think when you go out to places, if you removed live music from that, it would be really dull, really empty and really two dimensional.” - Penguin Beer Co. owner Scott Seymour
But the fall-out from Covid-19 still hovers as it becomes increasingly more difficult for venues to justify
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“Live music is the cornerstone of Penguin Beer Co, we’re all about bringing people together and I think nothing brings the community together better than enjoying a live show,” Scott says. “If you think when you go out to places, if you removed live music from that, it would be really dull, really empty and really two dimensional. It brings people in, people come in for an advertised gig, some people are literally just walking past the door and hear live music and they walk in. But most importantly I think it keeps people in their seats for longer. If they have something to look at and listen to, they will stay for an extra beer or two. “We are really passionate about paying artists what they are worth, they certainly deserve it but as far as the venue is concerned, to pay an artist what they are worth, you are never going to get your money back. But then if you put a ticket charge, even $5, it discourages some people, they just don’t show up. We have put a model in place now where we ask people if they are having a good afternoon and enjoying the show, contribute a bit towards it. That goes towards the cost of live music and allows us to keep putting gigs on week after week.”
music offerings, the Royal Oak features some form of entertainment every night. This ranges from first-time performances to ticketed shows for well-known local bands. “Live music at the Royal Oak is an everyday thing, offering different genres for different people,” Ari says. The Royal Oak is special because it’s where up and coming artists in Launceston find their feet and can gain a following. It is a really safe space for new artists to have their first performance. “Live music is an integral part of the Tasmanian hospitality scene... during Covid unfortunately live music in general was a bit underappreciated.” - Wolfe Brothers member Tom Wolfe “Music is something that connects people, it gets them up on their feet dancing, they’re happy, that’s the atmosphere we want to create here, just people having fun. The best thing about live music and different genres is it brings a different diversity into the pub. You see people of different ages come in and have a good time.
This view is shared by Ari Heslop, who is the manager of the Royal Oak in Launceston. Renowned for its live
“But there are definitely struggles, more financially.
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Tasmanian Hospitality Review Oct/Nov Edition
UNCLE GUS & THE RIMSHOTS PERFORM AT THE ROYAL OAK IN LAUNCESTON AND LEFT, SAN CISCO IN ACTION AT THE FORTH PUB. PICS: RICHARD JUPE. BELOW, THE ROYAL OAK
Insurance goes up every year, and we struggle with that, just costs for the pub and also costs for other people as well, a lot of people want to go out and see live acts and they can’t because they can’t afford it. You have seen that across Australia with festivals no longer going ahead. The arts are so important, and they need to be supported. It is more than just a job, these people, they are struggling to get through but they do it because they love it, it is their passion and it brings
people together, it connects people.”
Connecting people and communities – especially in the post pandemic world – is arguably the greatest role hospitality venues can play. And the role of live music in the recovery cannot be underestimated. Despite the challenges, all venues shared a common belief in the importance of live music. It’s not just entertainment, it’s a vital part of the hospitality ecosystem. Live performances attract a wider audience, encourage longer stays, and increase spending on food and drinks. For venues like the Forth Pub, the flow on affect spreads wider than just the four walls of the one establishment. “It’s not just people coming to the shows, it’s people working. On a big night we could have up to 40 people working here, whether that is security, bar staff, kitchen staff, people on the door, guys with the bands, there is a fairly good flow on affect,” says managing director Trent Allen. “It is not just what happens here in the venue, it is all around the councils and boosting the economy. The bands are staying in hotels down the road, they fly here, they hire cars, they are going to our cafes.
“Live music gets people moving from one region to
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MARITA MANGANO (ABOVE) IS A LOCAL MUSICIAN BASED ON THE EAST COAST. RIGHT, TOM WOLFE AND THE WOLFE BROTHERS PERFORMS AT LONGLEY INTERNATIONAL. PICS: RICHARD JUPE.
another. And the arts are important for people’s mental health as well, if it’s not on people are just sitting at home doing nothing and that’s where people start struggling. There is no better feeling than being at a live gig when the place is pumping.” Further down south, the Longley International has built a proud history of hosting local and touring bands, and live music is still a core part of their identity. The popular venue has been in the Brereton family for more than two decades, with current manager Hannah continuing to pour resources into keeping live music a staple that draws repeat visitation to the area. “My parents took it over 20 years ago and worked really hard putting live music on Fridays and Sunday afternoons for those 20 years to build it up to what it is now, which is a place where everyone wants to be,” Hannah says. “When we have large events here people come that haven’t been before, they may not even know we are here, but then they come and they might go ‘let’s come back during the week’ and they get a different experience. I think it is really important for venues to give live music a go, it is important for the community and for the artists.” One of those artists who started from humble beginnings at the Longley International and are now recognised globally are the Wolfe Brothers. Hailing
from the region, and only minutes from the pub, Tom and Nick Wolfe’s first taste of playing to a crowd came at their local, alongside original band members Brodie Rainbird and Casey Kostiuk. For several years the Wolfe Brothers were a staple of the Tasmanian pub scene – before auditioning for the sixth season of Australia’s Got Talent in 2012 and a subsequent second placed finish rocketed them to stardom. “Longley International is such a supporter of live local music. You can have some of the biggest acts in Australia here and the next night have a fantastic local act.” - Wolfe Brothers member Tom Wolfe The band is now a household name not only across the country but internationally – in June last year Tom was invited to a listening party with rock legends Bon Jovi in Nashville – but no matter where the industry takes him, Tom never forgets his roots and the importance of live music to the hospitality scene. “This is one of the first venues that supported us before we were anything. Some of the first gigs we did were here with our dad in the old stage, we would
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Tasmanian Hospitality Review Oct/Nov Edition
play in places like the old Soho Hotel, Irish Murphy’s, Customs House, you name it, we played it,” says Tom. “It was a wonderful learning ground for us. We always set ourselves little goals, once upon a time there was a goal that if we got a gig at Irish Murphy’s, we’d made it. Then when we got that gig, we thought ‘what was the next goal’. We have been very lucky with the opportunities we have been given. “Live music is an integral part of the Tasmanian hospitality scene, we saw during Covid unfortunately live music in general was a bit underappreciated and, maybe, a little bit misunderstood. For me, not only is it my job, but it also brings people together, it brings so much joy and happiness to people. It is an incredible part of Australian culture, Tasmanian culture and I think we need to get behind it more, support it more and bring people together. “Longley International is such a supporter of live local music, you can have some of the biggest acts in Australia here and the next night have a fantastic local act and discover some brand-new music. Local music is incredibly important, it is incredibly important to our society, and big artists always start as local artists, they have to start somewhere. We need venues supporting these guys.”
For Angus Leighton, Tasmania’s live music scene is yet to bounce back to where it was pre-pandemic. Leighton, a saxophonist who fronts jump-jive/swing band Uncle Gus and The Rimshots and was also a central part of the Hobart Hurricanes game-day entertainment this Big Bash season, understands the dilemmas venues face in putting on shows, especially with bands with bigger ensembles. “We were in this really good state pre-Covid where it was blooming, there were all these amazing bands popping up that were incorporating large amounts of people in their groups and creating some really great art,” Leighton says. Then Covid hit and we couldn’t do anything for so long. So a band like ours, which is seven people usually, from a business point of view it is really hard to justify hiring us on any given night because we have more mouths to feed. Tassie has got some incredible muso’s, you go to the mainland, and you talk about them but a lot of people haven’t heard of the acts because, and I hate to use the word exposure, but there really isn’t it. Funds to be able to show off what we have got, I think that is really important.”
To watch the THA’s full live music video series visit: https://tha.asn.au/news-media/video-library
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Tasmanian Hospitality Review Oct/Nov Edition
Editorial
Racegoers have flocked to meetings across Tasmania during the 2024/25 Ladbrokes Summer Racing Festival. From the big race days of the Devonport, Hobart, and Launceston Cups to country venues such as King Island, Longford, St Marys, and Scottsdale, the summer has once again showcased the best that Tasmanian racing offers. All three racing codes form part of the Tasmanian summer showcase and have delivered outstanding on-track performances. For the first time since 2018, a Tasmanian-trained greyhound won Australia’s oldest Group 1 classic when Bernie Burrow won the Ladbrokes Hobart Thousand in mid-December.
across the state to win cash prizes and enjoy a great day at the races. Again, this summer, over $75,000 has been awarded to Tasmanian clubs, beginning with the Devon Netball Association’s $10,000 win on Devonport Cup Day. The transition from summer into feature autumn racing is swift and leaves a lot to look forward to. Arguably Tasmania’s biggest night of harness racing, the Group 1 Tasmania Cup is on 22 March in Hobart, in the primetime Saturday night slot. The $50,000 Tasmanian St Leger in mid-March will see many of the local Hobart and Launceston Cup hopefuls continue their campaigns and try to win a feature race. In greyhound racing, an exciting batch of
DISTRUSTFUL AWARD WINNING THE LONGFORD CUP
The next wave of galloping stars has stepped up the mark with the likes of Geegees Gemstone, Durazzo, Ms Tasmania and Geegees Mistruth announcing themselves, all while the ‘old little champ’ The Inevitable has re-established himself as a force to be reckoned with. In the harness scene, former Tasmania Cup, Easter Cup, and Golden Apple winner The Shallows has been a revelation throughout the summer, winning three races in succession, including the Brighton and Hobart Pacing Cups. “We have been lucky to have him and are grateful for what he has done for us and have been fortunate that he has always been sound,” said trainer Heath Woods after The Shallows’ Hobart Pacing Cup win.
youngsters will compete in the Steve King Breeders Classic, also in March.
Easter is always a busy time in Tasmanian racing, particularly Good Friday, where all three codes are in action at both ends of the state. The air is fresher, the drinks are colder, and the grass is greener. Tassie is the perfect place to race! Follow all the news at tasracing.com.au .
THE HOBART THOUSAND PRESENTATION
The Ladbrokes Community Sports Series (LCSS) has been a brilliant initiative in recent years, allowing clubs
27 Tasmanian Hospitality Review Oct/Nov Edition
Women in Leadership
Public Speaking Confidence, a game-changer for Women in Hospitality The Women in Leadership (WIL) Confidence in Public Speaking Workshops have been a huge success, with 100% positive feedback, 100% engagement, and 100% recommendation ratings. Participants didn’t just learn to speak in public—they gained confidence, presence, and the ability to communicate with impact. Given this overwhelming success, we are continuing the journey with two brand-new workshops designed to take skills to the next level. What’s Next? Introducing the Next Two Levels • Confidence in Public Speaking II: Mastering Your Style (3 hours) This hands-on workshop helps participants refine and personalise their speaking style through real-world scenarios, role-playing exercises, and audience adaptation techniques. • Confidence in Public Speaking III: The Art of Impact (3 hours) A deep dive into vocal techniques, body language, pacing, and dramatic effect—transforming good speakers into captivating, unforgettable communicators. Both workshops will be led by Barb McGregor, one of Tasmania’s top public relations and communications specialists, who has coached Premiers, Ministers, and CEOs in high-stakes public speaking and leadership.
growth, and leadership transformation.
Keep an eye out! We’ll be launching this on our socials very soon. Given that the last sessions sold out quickly, we recommend registering early to secure a spot.
Let’s build confidence, own the room, and shape the future of women in hospitality!
ABOVE: FORMER PREMIER PETER GUTWEIN AT A PUBLIC SPEAKING WORKSHOP
Why This Matters
The ability to speak confidently and with impact is an essential leadership skill—whether it’s presenting to a team, advocating for change, or representing your business. These workshops are not just about public speaking—they’re about empowerment, career
Women in Leadership Enquiries? Contact Leanne Blackwell E: leanne@tha.asn.au Ph: 0413 544 304
Benchmarking that gives you the edge. – Gain full hotel lifecylce visibility
Tasmanian Hospitality Review Oct/Nov Edition – Unlock potential To learn more, visit str.com/benchmarking 28 – Elevate performance – Understand success
Women in Leadership
From Confidence to Career Change: how the WIL program empowered Talsa Yates The power of women in leadership For many women in hospitality, stepping into leadership roles isn’t just about skills – it’s about confidence, opportunity, and the right support network. For Talsa Yates, a 2023 Women in Leadership (WIL) Scholarship Recipient, the program wasn’t just a course – it was a game-changer. In just one year, Talsa has transformed her career, expanded her leadership skills, and made bold decisions to align her life with her goals. She credits the WIL Program as the catalyst that gave her the skills, network, and confidence to take those steps. “More important than the practical skills, this program has given me the confidence to pursue dreams and opportunities that I used to feel were out of my reach,” she says. When Talsa first joined the program, she was the Catering Manager for Wineglass Bay Cruises, working at the intersection of sustainability, tourism, and food. With nearly two decades of experience in hospitality, she had the knowledge – but was looking for a pathway to leadership. Through the WIL program, Talsa gained: • A Diploma in Leadership and Management – Equipping her with essential leadership skills. • Practical tools for career development – Helping her apply new strategies in real-time. • A strong professional network – Connecting her with women who encouraged and supported her journey. • A new level of confidence – Empowering her to take the leap into new opportunities. And leap she did. Recognising that she wasn’t in the right environment to grow, she made the bold decision to leave her role and pursue a career path that aligned with her leadership aspirations and personal goals. “The combination of my experiences with Women in Leadership, finishing my diploma, and Tas Leaders this year made me realise I was not in the right environment to be setting myself up for where I want to be and all the things I want to accomplish,” Talsa says. “So I made some changes to facilitate more space in my life for further study, community, and a few passion projects that I am excited to throw myself into.” Talsa has since taken on a new role at Freycinet Lodge, working alongside industry leaders while building space for further studies and personal projects – a decision she attributes to the empowerment and support gained from the WIL program.
The hospitality industry is filled with talented, driven women who have immense potential, yet many lack the formal leadership training, support, and confidence to step into the roles they deserve. The Women in Leadership Program isn’t just about education – it’s about creating a pipeline of strong, confident female leaders who can shape the future of hospitality and tourism. For young women like Talsa, the program provides: • Skills & Qualifications – A structured pathway to leadership. • A Supportive Network – A community of women who uplift and mentor each other. • Career Acceleration – Practical strategies that help participants take the next step. • Confidence & Empowerment – The push they need to step out of their comfort zones.
“I wouldn’t be in this position without the initial empowerment and confidence boost from WIL, so thank you again, and the whole organisation. I truly feel like this is just the beginning of some really wonderful things!” Talsa’s journey is a testament to how impactful the right leadership training and support can be. From stepping out of her comfort zone to reshaping her career, she has shown how education, community, and courage can lead to remarkable transformation. Her story is just one of many – but it highlights exactly why initiatives like the Women in Leadership Program are so essential for the future of hospitality. Are you ready to take the next step in your leadership journey? The Women in Leadership Program could be the launchpad you need. Get involved today!
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Liquor & Gaming Update
Jonathon Root
From the Liquor and Gaming branch
on the footpath needs to be covered by an off permit in addition to the licence • Pubs often hold a general licence as liquor is consumed inside, in outdoor areas on their property and is sold as takeaways • Clubs often hold a club licence as liquor is consumed inside, in outdoor areas on their property and can be sold as takeaways, but only to members and club guests • Cellar doors, wholesalers and other businesses that offer liquor in only a specific way often hold a special licence which is restricted to their specific activities only You can make an application to change a redline plan. However, the type of application depends on your current licence or permit and the intended changes. You may require an application to alter the licensed premises if the current licence type is still suitable but the size of the area is changing. In other cases, you may need to apply for a different licence if the current licence type is no longer suitable for your business activities. If you have an outdoor area that is not secured or council property, you are likely to require a permit. Please contact the Branch to discuss your specific business and how it will be operated so we can give you advice about the best way to proceed.
Liquor Licence annual fees
It’s that time of year again where liquor licence annual fees are due. Invoices will be emailed to licensees in late February and must be paid by the end of March. Annual fees that remain unpaid after March 31 will incur a 10% penalty fee and licences may be suspended or cancelled.
Updating contact details
Updating personal details when they change is an important obligation for all licence and permit holders. You need to advise of any changes in writing within 14 days. This can be done by sending an email to the Branch and explaining what information needs to be updated. With liquor licence annual fees to be emailed soon, it is important to update your contact details as soon as possible.
Redline plan - What is it and how can it be changed?
A redline plan represents the area of a premises (either a licenced premises or a permit premises) from which liquor can be sold.
Changes to your gaming venue
A redline plan is always attached to a liquor licence, and sometimes attached to a liquor permit.
If you or your entity hold a venue licence and are in the process of changing the venue licence holder, you need to notify the Tasmanian Liquor and Gaming Commission by emailing the Branch. You must notify before settlement or handover has occurred, otherwise there may be interruptions to the ability to conduct gaming at the venue.
Liquor permits have conditions that describe the areas where liquor can be consumed , based on your event or activities. For a liquor licence, the areas liquor can be consumed within depends on the type of licence and its conditions. If you have an outdoor space that is part of your premises and is secured, it may be appropriate to include in your redline plan. Areas that are exposed or are council property such as footpaths, may not be appropriate to be included in the redline plan and require an off permit instead.
Up-to-date information about liquor and gaming in Tasmania can be found here: https://bit.ly/3COipw9.
For further information please contact the Liquor and Gaming Branch
By email gaming@treasury.tas.gov.au or licensing@ treasury.tas.gov.au or by telephone on 6166 4040
• Restaurants often hold an on-licence as liquor is consumed inside. However, off street dining
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