SCOTT BACON Opposition Spokesman for Tourism and Hospitality Opposition Report
This year’s THA and TasTAFE Awards For Excellence not only made for a great night’s entertainment, but were a reminder of the depth of talent across Tasmania’s hospitality sector. I would like to congratulate Steve, Leanne and the rest of the team who helped bring together a terrific event. It was a pleasure to sit back and see businesses from every part of the state rewarded for their commitment to excellence, along with employees in the sector who go above and beyond every day. It was terrific to see Tony Watson from the New Norfolk Hotel recognised with the Premier’s award, alongside long-time industry identities Lyndon Adams and John Licandro. Congratulations too to Chef of the Year DC Lim from the Glass House, Rising Star Samuel Graudins, Employee of the Year Varun Khetarpal and Apprentice of the Year Lauren Kinne. The rise of Tasmania’s hospitality sector has been built on hard working people who have dedicated themselves to delivering high quality experiences. From large operations like Wrest Point and the diverse team that continues to make it a success, to smaller businesses in regional Tasmania, we’ve got a lot to be proud of. The list of those recognised through the awards is a great snapshot
of the experiences visitors to our state enjoy. But it is just a snapshot, with hundreds of other great businesses and organisations doing positive things in the sector. I noticed on the night just how strong the comradery is between businesses. The encouragement between award winners, even those in direct competition with each other, was on display for all to see. I believe this sort of teamwork is one of the reasons for Tasmania’s success. By working together, quality has risen right across the state. This has been driven by the leadership of organisations like the THA who bring people together for stronger outcomes. I’m very confident about future growth and continued excellence in the hospitality sector and Labor’s committed to policy outcomes that will support the industry. We are particularly interested in ways to better support training initiatives to create a more highly skilled workforce. Well done again on a fantastic awards night and congratulations to the businesses recently recognised at a national level. The Beltana Hotel, The Shoreline Hotel and Frogmore Creek were all recognised among an impressive list of national award winners. It really is a golden age for hospitality in Tasmania.
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Hospitality Review
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