QHA_April_Digital

NEWS
Tom has left the Association in very good health and in
the experienced leadership of Richard Deery who has
been the Senior Vice-President for almost a decade.
Following in the footsteps of his father, Richard
McGuire, Tom provided a great service to the
hospitality industry not only in Queensland but also
as part of the Australian Hotels Association where, for
many years, Tom Served as National AHA President.
He was always focused on building an association
which gives every hotelier, no matter the size, a voice
in our industry.
It was in his role as a trusted confidante of political
power-brokers and shrewd advocate for the industry
where Tom’s mantra of ‘extending the hand of
friendship’ was most evident. Over the years Tom
has worked tirelessly to establish a strong, cohesive
and influential association in both Queensland and
Australia, and in 2019, was awarded with a Medal
of the Order for Australia for his services to the hotel
industry.
Tom’s lateral thinking, great relationships with all
sides of politics and willingness to treat everyone with
respect and dignity, no matter their standing, has seen
him go down as one of the QHA’s most respected
leaders. Above all, Tom set the example of how the
hospitality industry in Queensland is so often the heart
of their communities.
The departure of Tom and the appointment of Richard
was officially announced at the most recent Board
Meeting of representatives from across Queensland.
Richard Deery, whose family has called the awardwinning
Story Bridge Hotel in Kangaroo Point home for
more than 50 years is excited to be taking on the role
of representing this vibrant industry that is critical to
the growth of the state.
During his tenure at the Story Bridge Hotel, Richard
has witnessed decades of change in the Queensland
hotel industry and understands how to strengthen
businesses and constantly adapt to the needs of his
community and patrons.
Richard sees so many opportunities in the years
ahead such as increasing employment and career
development opportunities as Queenslanders forge a
career in the hospitality industry. Richard’s passion for
the industry is his commitment to raising awareness for
all of the positive aspects of the industry that should
be enjoyed as much by employees as the patrons.
Richard said he had nothing but high admiration for
Tom’s accomplishments.
“He’s been a very good captain of the ship for many
years and has always provided good wisdom and
guidance with a bit of humour along the way. You
really need that in this trade. It’s a serious industry,
but we have got to remember to keep this industry
fun and exciting and not get caught up with all of the
heaviness.
“Tom’s are big shoes to fill. I think he’s been a great
President and has been well connected to all parties,
affiliate businesses, suppliers and the entire network
across the industry. He is held in great regard and has
kept everyone up front and at arm’s length.
“With that said, I thank the members for having
confidence in me taking it on. We will keep delivering
a good result, keep our association in the forefront
and keep our members up to date. Every area in
Queensland has different needs, but we are all in the
same boat and affected by the same state laws. We
will listen and understand the needs and wants of all
and do the best to look after the majority of members,”
he said.
QHA Chief Executive Bernie Hogan was glowing in his
praise of both men, and said he has no doubt under
Richard’s leadership that the QHA will continue to go
from strength to strength and represent every member
to the best of their ability.
“While it is a momentous occasion when a giant of
our industry steps down as President of the QHA, the
association is incredibly fortunate to have a leader the
calibre of Richard Deery waiting in the wings to take
over the reins and continue our representation of this
wonderful industry in Queensland,” he said.
With this, we give many congratulations to Richard,
and a hearty farewell and best wishes to Tom.
QHA REVIEW | 7