A Tasmanian bartender has been crowned the nation’s best young talent as the state claimed six national hospitality awards on the Gold Coast tonight.
Matthew Bomford from St Albi Bar & Eatery was crowned the industry’s rising star, the first Tasmanian to claim the national title in 15 years.
Hospitality Tasmania chief executive Steve Old said the recognition was a win for the state.
“It is always great for our venues to be recognised, but to have a Tasmanian once again named the national rising star … is incredibly exciting,” he said.
“It proves the future of hospitality in our state is bright, ambitious and already making waves across Australia.”
Tasmania’s six-title haul at the AHA National Awards for Excellence marks the state’s second-best result, behind only last year’s record seven wins.
Saffire Freycinet took out Best Luxury Accommodation for the fourth time in five years, while Iron Creek Bay Estate won the award for Excellence in Innovation, Sustainability and Energy Efficiency Practice.
Shoreline Hotel was named Best Marketed Hotel in the general division.
In a clean sweep of the accessibility categories, MACq 01 won All Abilities Hotel in the accommodation division, with The Plough Inn taking out the general division title.
“Winning both all abilities awards is a clear sign that Tasmania is leading the way nationally when it comes to diversity and inclusion,” Old said.
He said the strong showing reflected Tasmania performing at the highest national standard.
“To bring home six national titles is outstanding and speaks to the quality and professionalism of Tasmanian venues, operators and staff,” he said.
“We were incredibly proud of last year’s record seven wins and to back it up so strongly again shows real momentum for our industry.”
AHA National President David Basheer said hotels played a vital role in communities across Australia.
“Hotels are more than venues – they are the beating hearts of their communities,” Basheer said.
“Tonight’s winners show why Australian hospitality is the benchmark – welcoming, hardworking and deeply community-minded venues.”
The last Tasmanian to win the rising star award was Lauren Hodder from Lenna of Hobart in 2010.
