QHA Review - MARCH 2025

MARCH 2025

FEATURE

ODE TO

THE EARTH

GLADSTONE WELCOMES ITS

FIRST FIVE-STAR HOTEL

BITE SIZE

KENILWORTH DAIRIES

A CRAFTY BUNCH

SLIPSTREAM BREWING

SOCIAL HOUSE

SHOWCASE

GAMING

EDITOR’S LETTER

GIVE US A BREAK!

Sam Ingham-Myers QHA Vice President, Matt Coorey QHA Senior Vice President, Mel Tait QHA Vice President,

Bernie Hogan QHA Chief Executive, and Richard Deery QHA President at Parliament House Canberra.

It is one of those truisms that there

are two inescapable certainties in life

– death and taxes. Leading into this

election year of 2025, the QHA along

with our interstate colleagues and

the brewers and distillers of Australia

have all banded together to ask the

Federal Government to show a bit of

understanding for Australians out in

our venues.

It is a sad story that, for 84

consecutive times, the excise on your

favourite drink has risen in Australia.

All sides of politics have watched as

this tax is slugged on drinkers every

six months. We understand that this

is a valuable source of revenue for the

Federal Government, as it is forecast

to raise around $8 billion. As the

people that have to pass on the bad

news every six months, we simply

think that is about enough.

“IT IS A SAD STORY THAT, FOR 84 CONSECUTIVE

TIMES, THE EXCISE ON YOUR FAVOURITE DRINK HAS

RISEN IN AUSTRALIA.”

We have asked for a freeze on excise

for all drinks served on premise for

three years. This ensures that jobs are

created, that there is a financial benefit

to sharing your drinks in a regulated

environment, and that the government

still gets their cut. Most importantly,

for the drinkers across Australia, there

is some understanding that buying a

shout at the local shouldn’t be a luxury.

We have also made it clear every time

we speak to Federal politicians that

we know the tax on alcohol is not the

only reason why our members and

their patrons are feeling the pinch.

Insurance, energy prices, labour costs,

and all other supplies have been

affected by rising inflation over the past

few years. However, the alcohol tax is

the one area that the government has a

direct influence on.

The Nationals and One Nation have

supported us strongly – we now need

the government to finally give us a

break in the next budget.

BERNIE HOGAN

QHA CHIEF EXECUTIVE/EDITOR

REVIEW / 3

BITE SIZE

A CRAFTY BUNCH

SHOWCASE

CONTRIBUTORS

FEATURE

OUR

COVER:

Peppers Gladstone

SERVING HOSPITALITY SINCE 1885.

MARCH 2025

EDITION

QHA

Level 14, 270 Adelaide Street

Brisbane, Queensland 4000

GPO Box 343

Brisbane, Queensland 4001

Phone: 07 3221 6999

1800 177 594

Web: www.qha.org.au

Email: info@qha.org.au

Office Hours

8.30am – 5.00pm Monday to Friday

President

Mr Richard Deery

Senior Vice President

Mr Matthew Coorey

Vice Presidents

Mr Brad Fitzgibbons

Ms Mel Tait

Mr Sam Ingham-Myers

Secretary/Treasurer

Ms Rachel Johnson

Chief Executive and Editor

Mr Bernie Hogan

www.qha.org.au

Design, content, and layout

Horse & Water Creative

QHA REVIEW is published by the Queensland Hotels

Association ABN 54 878 166 941.

All information is correct at time of going to press. The

publishers cannot accept responsibility for errors in

articles or advertisements, or unsolicited manuscripts,

photographs, or illustrations. The opinions and words

of the authors do not necessarily represent those of

the publisher. All rights reserved. Reproduction in part

or whole is strictly prohibited without prior permission.

3. EDITOR’S LETTER

5. CONTRIBUTORS

6. NEWS

12. BITE SIZE

22. FEATURE

PEPPERS GLADSTONE

34. TOP DROP

36. A CRAFTY BUNCH

SLIPSTREAM BREWING SOCIAL HOUSE

46. SHOWCASE

GAMING

63. TRADE DIRECTORY

64. PARTNERS & CORPORATE MEMBERS

EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING

For all editorial and advertising queries:

Nicky Spencer 0405 271 247

qhareview@qha.org.au

CONTRIBUTORS

DAMIAN STEELE

THERESE KELLY

PAUL ST JOHN-WOOD

CURT SCHATZ

QHA Deputy Chief Executive

A hospitality industry professional

with over 30 years of experience

in liquor, gaming, and operations.

Damian has a strong focus on

compliance and legislation.

QHA Training Manager

An experienced VET sector

professional, Therese manages the

QHA Training department and is

responsible for the development

and delivery of quality training for

QHA members and other hospitality

venues.

QHA Membership Officer

Paul is the face of the Association to

many QHA members as he travels

the length and breadth of the state

visiting, advising, and assisting

publicans.

Managing Partner, Mullins

With over 30 years of experience

in property, liquor, and gaming

law, Curt is recognised as a leader

in this field. He advises pub, club,

nightclub, restaurant, resort, and

accommodation venue owners and

operators.

VICTORIA THOMSON

SARAH SWAN

TOM FITZGERALD

ADAM FLOYD

Commissioner for Office of

Liquor and Gaming Regulation

Queensland

Victoria is responsible for the

regulatory policy and strategic

direction of product safety, licensing,

compliance, and enforcement

activities to protect market integrity

and keep Queenslanders safe.

Employment Relations Manager

Sarah has a passion for employment

relations and has diverse experience

advising and assisting employees

and employers. Sarah has particular

interests in workers’ compensation

matters, bullying and harassment

matters, and policy development.

Accommodation Membership

Services Officer

Tom will act as your conduit to

accommodation information and

QHA services, and is an experienced

professional who grew up living and

working in the hospitality industry as

part of a hotel-owning family.

Head of MAX & TAB, Queensland

With ten years of experience in

Tabcorp gaming services, Adam has

recently taken on both MAX & TAB

for Queensland. Adam’s previous

career in the hospitality industry

positions him well to understand the

role that wagering and gaming play

in pubs.

NICK BAINBRIGGE

HON DEB FRECKLINGTON MP

State Manager of Aristocrat,

Queensland

Nick has a proven history in

wholesale liquor, electronic gaming,

and hotel and restaurant operation.

He now heads up the state team

for one of Australia’s leading

manufacturers of gaming machines.

Attorney-General and Minister for

Justice and Minister for Integrity

In her role as Attorney-General,

the Hon Deb Frecklington MP has

regulatory oversight of the liquor and

gaming industry, working with hotels

across Queensland to support their

businesses and the community.

REVIEW / 5

NEWS/ HOTEL SYMPOSIUM

LEARN & CONNECT

THE ANNUAL QHA HOTEL SYMPOSIUM WAS SUCCESSFULLY HELD AT THE ALEXANDER HILLS

HOTEL, BRINGING TOGETHER OVER 150 INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS FOR A DAY OF INSIGHTFUL

DISCUSSIONS AND NETWORKING.

The event commenced with an industry address by the

Attorney-General, The Honourable Deb Frecklington

MP, followed by a dynamic Q&A session.

Joining the Attorney-General were Commissioner

Victoria Thomson from the Office of Liquor, Gaming

and Fair Trading alongside Anthony Crack from the

Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation.

Attendees also heard from AHA National President,

David Canny, who delivered the AHA industry address,

followed by an engaging Q&A session with John ‘JC’

Collins, Night-life Economy Commissioner.

The symposium featured a series of informative

presentations covering key industry topics, including

gaming industry trends, migration support,

property asset market trends, and the economic

outlook for 2025.

To conclude the event, attendees gathered for

networking drinks, proudly supported by Lion.

A special congratulations to Casey Murphy from

Hotel Lowood, who won the lucky door prize, courtesy

of Lion.

The QHA Hotel Symposium would not be possible

without the generous support of our event partners –

IGT, Mullins Lawyers, Westpac, and HLB Mann-Judd.

Thank you to all our event partners and the hoteliers

who took the time to attend.

/ 6

REVIEW

NEWS/ HLB MANN JUDD

WHY BENCHMARK?

MANAGING PARTNER OF HLB MANN JUDD (SOUTH EAST QUEENSLAND), JAMES HENDERSON,

TAKES US THROUGH HOW BENCHMARKING, DATA-DRIVEN DECISION-MAKING, AND OPERATIONAL

EFFICIENCIES CAN HELP MAXIMISE PROFITABILITY AMID RISING EXPENSES.

Benchmarking in business is comparing your hotel’s

performance, practices, and processes to those of others

in the industry to identify areas for improvement. It can

be used to measure best practice, set goals, and develop

strategies for future improvement/growth.

However, conducting this process accurately and with

appropriate data sources is essential to make meaningful

comparisons and derive outcomes. There are several key

areas where benchmarking can be particularly useful in

the hotel industry:

Sales and marketing

Understanding how your sales and marketing efforts

compare to those of competitors is crucial.

Technology

The use of technology in hotels has become increasingly

important, from inventory management systems to table

ordering, loyalty programs, and payment systems.

Benchmarking can help businesses evaluate whether they

are leveraging technology effectively compared to their

peers.

Strategy and operations

Operational efficiency is a key driver of profitability in the

hotel industry. By benchmarking operational metrics such

as labour costs, inventory turnover, and advertising rates,

businesses can identify inefficiencies and implement best

practices to improve their bottom line.

Compliance

Regulatory compliance is a critical area where

benchmarking can provide significant value. This can help

ensure that the business remains compliant and avoids

costly mistakes, fines, and/or legal issues.

The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) and

benchmarking

From a compliance perspective, the ATO uses

benchmarks to assess whether businesses are reporting

their income and expenses accurately.

Businesses that operate outside the ATO’s key

benchmarks may be subject to audits, which can be

costly and time-consuming. Therefore, understanding and

staying within these benchmarks is not only a matter of

good business practice, but also a critical component of

regulatory compliance.

HLB Mann Judd can benchmark your business to

your industry peers Australia-wide. Call or email for a

discussion on preparing a benchmark report specifically

for your business, your first consultation will be our shout.

HLB Mann Judd has developed a suite of specialised

services for the hotel industry and offers a specialist team

with expertise in accounting, tax, and business advisory.

With over 30 years of experience in the hotel industry, our

knowledge of your business environment ensures you

have access to a business partner who is committed to

working closely with you whenever you need us.

BY BENCHMARKING OPERATIONAL METRICS

SUCH AS LABOUR COSTS, INVENTORY TURNOVER,

AND ADVERTISING RATES, BUSINESSES CAN

IDENTIFY INEFFICIENCIES AND IMPLEMENT BEST

PRACTICES TO IMPROVE THEIR BOTTOM LINE.

REVIEW / 7

HOSPITALITY FORECAST

FROM DESTINATION TRENDS TO THE INCREASE IN APARTMENT-STYLE ACCOMMODATION, EVENT TRAVEL, AND

MID-WEEK ESCAPES – THESE TRENDS ARE SET TO SHAPE THE LANDSCAPE FOR HOSPITALITY AND TRAVEL IN 2025.

Oaks Hotels, Resorts & Suites has shared its forecast travel

trends for 2025, based upon an analysis of guest data across

its network of over 60 hotels in both bustling cities and scenic

coastal destinations – from Brisbane to Broome, Gladstone to

Glenelg, and Sydney to the Sunshine Coast.

Chief operating officer of Minor Hotels Australasia, Craig Hooley,

said looking at the travel landscape for 2025, they’re seeing

patrons place more value on apartment-style accommodation

that delivers excellent value for money and feels like a home

away from home.

“This is especially the case for families, friend groups, and

multigenerational travellers. Shoulder and off-peak travel or

mid-week escapes are also likely to be popular, and with the

collecting of experiences being a major travel motivator for

Australians and New Zealanders, we expect to see continued

growth in travel for major sports events and concerts in 2025,”

he said.

Shorter booking windows and quick getaways

Travellers are swapping longer booking windows for more lastminute

stays, with bookings for travel within the next month

rising over the past 12 months. The average booking window

for leisure stays is currently 45 days, with business bookings

typically locked in a month ahead.

Destinations with the longest booking lead times include

Auckland, Broome, and Port Douglas. Weekend getaways and

short breaks are proving particularly popular, with 2.6 days

being the average stay length for leisure travellers, compared to

business travellers who typically stay for 3.1 days per trip.

Families prefer apartment-style accommodation

The rise in family and group travel, including

multigenerational stays, continues to shape accommodation

preferences. Oaks’ larger room types are often booked well

in advance, particularly during peak travel periods. In fact,

four-bedroom apartments typically sell out first, followed by

three-bedroom suites.

Everyone loves an event

In 2025, event travel is set to become a prominent trend

across Australia and New Zealand as more travellers

plan trips around key festivals, sports events, and cultural

gatherings. From major sporting events such as the Australian

Open or the Formula One Grand Prix to the vibrance of Vivid

Sydney or cultural delights of the Adelaide Fringe Festival,

travellers are keen to combine destination appeal with

memorable events.

Mid-week and off-peak

Travelling mid-week and during shoulder season will continue

to be a travel trend in 2025 as Australians take advantage of

enhanced availability, competitive pricing, off-peak seasonal

deals, and fewer tourists at major attractions. Mid-week travel

is particularly popular for those keen to avoid the hustle and

bustle of weekend visitors.

Aussies love a deal

Despite the rising cost of living, travel is considered almost

non-negotiable for most Australians, with 43% planning to

travel even more in 2025. As such, the appeal of seasonal

deals and special offers has never been stronger.

Destination trends

According to Oaks, the top destinations overall for 2024

were Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Darwin, Glenelg, Perth,

Broome, the Sunshine Coast, Port Stephens, and Hunter Valley.

Oaks’ data indicates that, broadly speaking, we’re a nation of

/ 8

REVIEW

NEWS/ OAKS HOTELS, RESORTS & SUITES

DESPITE THE RISING COST OF

LIVING, TRAVEL IS CONSIDERED

ALMOST NON-NEGOTIABLE FOR

MOST AUSTRALIANS, WITH

43 %

PLANNING TO TRAVEL

EVEN MORE IN 2025.

city slickers with events, restaurants, and nightlife attracting

travellers to properties in Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane.

During peak summer school holiday periods, Melbourne,

Brisbane, Auckland, and the Gold Coast are among the most

popular destinations. Nelson Bay and Glenelg are also high on

the travel wish list during the Christmas break, which ties in with

the broader travel trend of detour destinations – less discovered,

less crowded holiday hotspots which offer a more laid-back,

old-school ambience.

During the winter months, Darwin is trending as one of the most

sought-after spots to escape the winter blues down south, with

travellers increasingly keen to discover the tropical delights of

the Top End, including the August Darwin Festival. Other winter

favourites include Broome, Auckland, and Townsville.

REVIEW / 9

NEWS/ LMG

RESILIENCE

AND PASSION

LIQUOR MARKETING GROUP (LMG) IS EXCITED

TO WELCOME STEWART BENSLEY AS THEIR NEW

QUEENSLAND STATE MANAGER.

Here, he shares his insights into how LMG is positioned to thrive

in a dynamic market.

Can you give us some background on your history in the

liquor industry and your connection with LMG?

I’ve spent nearly two decades in Queensland’s liquor industry,

starting in retail before moving into venue management and, in

the past seven years, wholesale and distribution.

My experience with both large corporates and independents has

given me a well-rounded industry perspective. Since joining LMG

in January, I’ve been inspired by its collaborative, innovative, and

customer-focused culture.

How would you describe your leadership style, and how do

you see it aligning with LMG’s goals?

I like to foster a sense of ownership and accountability within the

team. Leadership isn’t just about issuing instructions – it’s about

creating an environment where individuals feel responsible for

their roles and outcomes. That means taking initiative, being

proactive, and stepping up to solve problems.

What are your key priorities for LMG in Queensland in the

coming year?

We will further strengthen LMG’s position in Queensland by

focusing on three key priorities:

Expanding our footprint

Welcoming more independent retailers who share our vision and

offering tailored solutions to help them compete.

Innovative customer engagement

Launching a customer loyalty platform to enhance our members’

digital presence.

Member alliance

Building strong partnerships through collaboration and

communication to strengthen our diverse network of

independent retailers.

What trends are you observing in the liquor retail sector,

and how is LMG positioned to address them?

We’re seeing the national trends reflected in the Queensland

market with a growing focus on value. Consumers prioritise

quality, experience, and product stories over price alone.

Premium products are in demand where they align with customer

values and justify their cost.

Convenience also remains key with online shopping and delivery

on the rise. LMG is well placed to respond by offering a diverse

range of premium products and a strong digital infrastructure.

How do you see consumer preferences evolving?

With a shift towards healthier lifestyles comes an increase in

demand for non-alcoholic, lower-alcohol, lower-sugar, and

lower-carb options. Younger consumers are more interested

in sustainability and prioritising brands that are socially and

environmentally responsible.

We’re delivering on these evolving preferences by supporting

members with products that reflect changing tastes.

What do you see as the biggest challenges facing the liquor

retail industry, and how is LMG planning to overcome them?

Our biggest challenges include rising competition from large

chains and online platforms, regulatory changes affecting

availability and pricing, and supply chain pressures.

We’re meeting these challenges head-on by strengthening our

member network, enhancing our digital capabilities, collaborating

closely with freight partners, and staying engaged with

industry bodies.

What are you most looking forward to in the coming year?

I’m looking forward to enhancing our digital capabilities to help

members connect more effectively with customers, and I’m eager

to see how new product innovations and local collaborations

shape Queensland’s market.

This industry’s resilience and passion – from owners to frontline

staff and consumers – is inspiring, and I’m excited to be part of

driving that energy forward with LMG.

/ 10

REVIEW

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/ 12

REVIEW

BITE SIZE/ KENILWORTH DAIRIES

As the mainstay of many country towns in Queensland, dairy

is one of Australia’s most important rural industries, producing

around 8.8 billion litres of milk a year and directly employing

about 33,500 people.

Family-owned dairy producers are the heart and soul of this

thriving sector, leading the way with experimental flavours,

sustainable practices, and artful techniques – which is exactly

why more hospitality businesses are using locally sourced

milk, cheese, and yoghurt in their kitchens.

Set amongst the rolling hills of the Mary Valley in the

Sunshine Coast hinterland, Kenilworth Dairies is one of

the small Queensland dairy businesses bursting onto the

foodservice scene, with their legacy, expertise, and beloved

reputation in the community helping them stand out against

the rest.

Marketing and sales manager at Kenilworth Dairies,

Danielle Pittman, said they have already established strong

relationships with distributors, and are now focused on

expanding their presence in the hospitality industry.

“We provide flexible wholesale solutions designed to meet

the needs of Queensland venues, ensuring they have highquality,

fresh dairy products to satisfy their customers.

“What sets us apart is not just our premium, locally sourced

milk from nearby farms, but the unwavering commitment we

have to every step of the process.

“We understand the hard work and challenges of dairy

farming, so it’s our deep-rooted passion that drives us to

deliver products of exceptional quality, honouring both our

history and the future of Australian dairy.

“Our current stockists are EP Food Company, Bidfood

Australia, North Coast Smallgoods, Flame Hill Vineyard,

Charmlaw Foods, and Providore on Hastings, but our goal

is to forge new partnerships with additional distributors,

bringing our local products to hospitality venues across the

state,” she said.

Owned by the Cochrane family since 2017, Kenilworth Dairies

draws on six generations of dairy farming experience. John

Cochrane, a dairy farmer from Kin Kin, leads the business

with invaluable knowledge passed down from his parents,

Alan and Mavis.

In 2017, John channelled his lifelong passion for dairy farming

into something truly meaningful when he became the proud

owner of the Kenilworth Cheese Factory, later renaming it

Kenilworth Dairies.

REVIEW / 13

“WE UNDERSTAND

THE HARD WORK AND

CHALLENGES OF DAIRY

FARMING, SO IT’S OUR

DEEP-ROOTED PASSION

THAT DRIVES US TO

DELIVER PRODUCTS OF

EXCEPTIONAL QUALITY,

HONOURING BOTH OUR

HISTORY AND THE FUTURE

OF AUSTRALIAN DAIRY.”

Danielle said John’s vision for the brand was simple

yet powerful – to create a sustainable future for local

farmers and preserve the rich dairy farming heritage of

the region.

“Within weeks of taking over, the business began

sourcing milk from local farms, including the farm of

John’s son, Kelvin, in nearby Kandanga. For over 90

years, the Cochrane family has been a pillar of the

Queensland dairy community, consistently advocating

for farmers and contributing to the industry’s growth.

“This commitment to supporting local farms remains

at the heart of our brand. We focus on ensuring

the survival and success of farming families for

generations to come, and want to build a more

sustainable and connected future for the communities

we serve,” she said.

Today, Kenilworth Dairies sources its milk from Obi

Obi Farm, located just five kilometres from the town of

Kenilworth and nestled within an area celebrated for its

fertile soil and ideal farming conditions.

Danielle said Obi Obi Farm is deeply integrated into the

long-standing dairy traditions of the Sunshine Coast.

“The hinterland is known for its abundant agricultural

industry, with local farmers like Obi Obi Farm producing

amazing products. The region’s fresh water, lush

pastures, and temperate climate reinforce the milk’s

exceptional quality, and our close connection with the

farm ensures we receive a consistent supply.

“We want to help sustain the local industry and make

sure our fresh, locally sourced goods reach consumers

and keep farming traditions alive. By supporting each

other, we help provide stable jobs in the area and

contribute to lowering unemployment rates.

“Beyond that, supporting local businesses like our own

allows customers to enjoy one-of-a-kind offerings that

can’t be found elsewhere.

“We offer a creative range of dairy products tailored for

the hospitality sector, including a variety of mousses,

cheeses, milk, and flavoured yoghurts, with our natural

and honey flavours being top sellers,” she said.

Beyond its cultural and economic benefits, sourcing

ingredients from local producers also helps alleviate

food wastage. Kenilworth Dairies supplies bulk yoghurts

up to 10kg, bulk sour cream up to 10kg, flavoured

cheddars up to 2kg, and soft cheeses up to 1.2kg.

Specialising in a myriad of unique dairy products, the

brand is also proud to offer haloumi, chilli and garlic

haloumi, mild, matured, and vintage cheeses, waxed

cheeses, smoked cheeses, and of course the finest milk.

Danielle emphasised that Kenilworth Dairies has

become so much more than just a simple dairy

producer. In addition to serving the foodservice industry,

they’re also a popular destination for tourists taking

in the serenity and farm-to-plate experiences of the

Sunshine Coast hinterland.

“Our café is open seven days a week and offers the

public a chance to enjoy our full range of dairy products,

alongside other artisanal goods from local businesses.

“We serve coffee, breakfast, lunch, and platters

featuring our delicious cheeses, creating a memorable

experience for all guests. We also offer group tastings,

informative talks, event catering, and services for bus

groups, providing a unique and tailored experience for

any occasion.

“With the support of the hospitality industry, local

Queensland businesses in the agriculture and dairy

sectors can continue to thrive, preserve rich traditions,

enhance the local economy, and leave a sustainable and

vibrant mark on the foodservice industry for generations

to come,” she said.

/ 14

REVIEW

BITE SIZE/ KENILWORTH DAIRIES

“OUR CAFÉ IS OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK

AND OFFERS THE PUBLIC A CHANCE

TO ENJOY OUR FULL RANGE OF DAIRY

PRODUCTS, ALONGSIDE OTHER ARTISANAL

GOODS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES.”

REVIEW / 15

BITE

SIZE

EVERYTHING

FOOD

KENILWORTH DAIRIES

CREAMY & SWEET

PURE, DELICATE, AND INSPIRED BY QUEENSLAND.

Made from the highest-quality milk available in the Sunshine

Coast hinterland, Kenilworth Dairies delivers bulk tubs of Natural

and Honey yoghurt up to 10kg to venues across Queensland.

Boasting a perfectly smooth texture, their Natural yoghurt is free

from preservatives and sugar, while their Honey yoghurt is lightly

sweetened with natural honey sourced from local business HUM

HONEY. Also available in 200g to 900g tubs is Kenilworth Dairies’

Lemon & Passionfruit, Mango, Mango & Macadamia, Mixed Berry,

and Passionfruit flavours.

GET IN TOUCH WITH KENILWORTH DAIRIES:

W

0428 762 853 marketing@kenilworthdairies.com.au

kenilworthdairies.com.au

HUM HONEY

A DELICIOUS FUSION

PURE RAW HONEY AND ORGANIC

AUSTRALIAN BLACK GARLIC.

ZEST ELEMENT

MORE FLAVOUR, ZERO WASTE

A NATURAL SOLUTION FOR THE FOODSERVICE SECTOR.

Adding a unique depth and earthy, caramelised flavour to roast

vegetables, meats, cheese boards, poached fruit, and seafood,

HUM HONEY’s Black Garlic Cold Fusion is imbued for a minimum

of four weeks to let the flavours intensify.

Consumers are more aware than ever about the origins of their

food, which is why sourcing authentic and innovative local

produce from businesses like HUM HONEY can add value to hotel

menus. It’s all about growing a positive, collaborative community

and helping reconnect people with their local environment.

GET IN TOUCH WITH HUM HONEY:

W

0419 769 947

humhoney.com.au

orders@humhoney.com.au

In an industry where labour efficiency, cost management, and

food waste reduction are paramount, Zest Element offers a

game-changing solution. Their 100% natural fruit powders

provide chefs with a shelf-stable, flavour-packed alternative to

fresh fruit without the hassle of perishability or preparation time.

Sourced from rescued and locally grown produce, their powders

deliver intense citrus flavour, extended shelf life, and consistent

quality in every scoop. Whether enhancing sauces, baking,

mixology, or seasoning, they streamline kitchen operations while

championing sustainability.

Backed by a commitment to reducing food waste and optimising

ingredient efficiency, Zest Element is helping the foodservice

industry create bold, vibrant flavours with minimal waste.

GET IN TOUCH WITH ZEST ELEMENT:

W

0448 331 094

zestelement.com.au

zestelement.sales@gmail.com

/ 16

REVIEW

MALENY CUISINE

MADE

WITH CARE

SUPER VERSATILE, FULL

OF GOODNESS, AND MADE

TO ELEVATE EVERY MEAL.

Like all of Maleny Cuisine’s products, their Apple, Fig

& Ginger Chutney is all about real ingredients and real

flavour. With a blend of tangy green apples, sweet figs, and

warming spices, every jar has the perfect balance of fruit

and spice.

Jam-packed with locally sourced ingredients and full

of flavour, the chutney is ideal for autumn menus and

pairs amazingly with pork, curry, gourmet sandwiches,

cheeseboards, and charcuterie platters.

The 45g Teenie version of Maleny Cuisine’s Apple, Fig &

Ginger Chutney is also well suited for welcome platters

and hampers in accommodation establishments or on

grazing tables at celebrations and events.

MOOLOOLABA FISHERIES

THE REAL DEAL

MADE WITH 100% AUSTRALIAN WILD-CAUGHT

FISH AND PACKED WITH THAI SPICES.

Mooloolaba Fisheries’ house-made Thai Fish Cakes

are a quick and tasty treat that will take guests directly

to Bangkok with their authentic taste, especially when

paired with Thai pickled cucumbers and dipping sauce.

Available in a handy resealable retail pack of eight or in

a 5kg foodservice box, all venues need to do is simply

defrost and pan fry or deep fry.

Our state has so many outstanding fisheries, and

customers love to hear a great local story. Mooloolaba

Fisheries is passionate about working with fishermen in

the Sunshine Coast to develop new products, expand

their range, and provide pubs and hotels with quality,

fresh produce.

GET IN TOUCH WITH MOOLOOLABA FISHERIES:

W

0466 629 199

mooloolabafisheries.com

paul@debrettseafood.com.au

GET IN TOUCH WITH MALENY CUISINE:

0478 117 883

marina@malenycuisine.com.au

W

malenycuisine.com.au

BRAZEN BROWNIES

SURF NUT

CATCH THE WAVE, TASTE THE ADVENTURE.

Made with high-quality, natural ingredients, Brazen

Brownies create luxurious and fudgy chocolate

brownies that satisfy every sweet craving. While

they come in a variety of sizes - including 60g, 85g,

and 210g - their cheeky 30g brownie bite packs

make the perfect hotel welcome gift, and will

surely leave guests wanting more.

Recently, Brazen Brownies introduced Surf Nut

to their collection of grab-and-go bite packs. Crafted with the

adventurous spirit in mind, the Surf Nut brownie combines the

crunch of premium macadamia nuts with a whisper of sea salt,

perfectly balanced with rich velvety dark chocolate. It’s a dance of

sweet and salty, bold and smooth, just like the ocean tides.

It’s a must-have for any venue serving coffee, beer, or wine.

GET IN TOUCH WITH BRAZEN BROWNIES:

W

0412 662 233

brazenbrownies.com.au

george@brazenbrownies.com.au

REVIEW / 17

ATTORNEY-GENERAL/ THE HONORABLE DEB FRECKLINGTON MP

WORKING WITH YOU

SINCE MY LAST COLUMN, I HAVE HAD THE PLEASURE OF SPEAKING AT THE QHA

SYMPOSIUM AND SHARING WITH MEMBERS MY COMMITMENT TO WORK WITH YOU ON

THE EVOLVING REGULATORY LANDSCAPE THE INDUSTRY FACES.

From alcohol laws, gaming regulations, and

noise restrictions to employment laws, safety

obligations, and trading hours – I know there

are plenty of challenges when you own a

pub, and also plenty of opportunities to

reduce regulatory burdens through technology

and systems.

One area the QHA has been advocating

around is the licence transfer process, with

members supporting a move to a digital

licensing system to address processing

timeframes and improve the visibility of the

application process. I am very keen to see

that project progress, and I’ll be working

with the Office of Liquor and Gaming

Regulation to ensure it is implemented as

quickly as possible.

Broadly, the government also wants to

see how it can use more digital tools like

websites, portals, and existing databases to

improve services and support your industry’s

growth. To this point, we are committed to

working with you to consider any proposals

for common sense reforms to improve

government services so you can focus on what

you do best, which is running your hotels.

What you can expect from the Crisafulli

Government is a laser-like focus on common

sense red tape reduction and a practical

approach to regulatory issues. I want us to get

out of the way of licensees who are doing the

right thing, who are complying with the laws,

and who are doing the best they can to run a

successful business here in Queensland.

Another issue that was raised with me was

the difficulty some hoteliers are having in

enforcing parking rules in their private car

parks, especially in locations close to train

stations and shopping centres. I am writing to

the Minister for Transport to bring this issue

to his attention and hope that a satisfactory

resolution can be reached.

I look forward to meeting more of you in the

months ahead.

BROADLY, THE GOVERNMENT ALSO WANTS TO SEE HOW

IT CAN USE MORE DIGITAL TOOLS LIKE WEBSITES,

PORTALS, AND EXISTING DATABASES TO IMPROVE

SERVICES AND SUPPORT YOUR INDUSTRY’S GROWTH.

/ 18

REVIEW

OLGR/ VICTORIA THOMSON

WORKING TOGETHER TO BOOST

QUEENSLAND’S NIGHTLIFE ECONOMY

I BELIEVE THAT WE CAN ACHIEVE SO MUCH MORE WHEN EVERYONE—FROM

GOVERNMENT AND INDUSTRY TO INDIVIDUALS IN THE COMMUNITIES WE SERVE—WORKS

TOGETHER TO LEAD THE WAY FORWARD.

I was pleased to meet with Nightlife Economy

Commissioner, Mr John “JC” Collins recently to talk

about his vision for Queensland’s nightlife.

The Queensland government has established

an expert panel, chaired by Mr Collins and

comprising live music venue operators, event

promoters, hotel and club representatives,

performers and academics, to advise on

revitalising the state’s nightlife economy.

The 16-member panel will consider a range of

issues including economic and business operating

conditions, regulatory settings, workforce,

transport and safety.

With so many experienced professionals from all

sides of the industry, I’m looking forward to seeing

their ideas come to fruition.

Help for licensees affected by natural disasters

Living in Australia’s most disaster-prone state,

we are no strangers to dealing with extreme

weather events, from fires to floods and other

natural disasters.

This doesn’t make it any easier, however, and my

thoughts are with licensees, their families and

staff who have been affected by the recent rain

and flooding challenges in North Queensland. We

understand the road to recovery from these events

can be long and want to assure you we have

avenues to support your resumption of business.

The Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation

(OLGR) is ready to assist affected licensees with

regulatory requirements during the recovery

period and can be contacted at OLGRlicensing@

justice.qld.gov.au or 13 QGOV (13 74 68) for

assistance with:

• Applying for temporary approval to trade from

another area.

• Disconnecting/reconnecting electronic

gaming machines.

• Compliance concerns and replacing official

documents.

• Any other licensing/compliance issues that

may arise.

OLGR stakeholder engagement

In January and February 2025, OLGR attended

16 meetings with Safe Night Precinct (SNP)

Boards and Liquor Accords across the state,

with highlights including a recent trip to northern

Queensland for meetings with the Airlie Beach SNP

and the Capricorn Coast Liquor Accord (CCLA).

Both the Airlie Beach SNP and the CCLA were

well attended and attendees asked lots of great

questions that clearly indicated how committed

they are to harm minimisation.

Constructive feedback was also shared, and

we certainly take it on board and look forward

to working out how we can best address their

concerns and support the area moving forward.

QHA Hotel Symposium

In February, I had the pleasure of attending the

QHA Hotel Symposium at the Alexandra Hills Hotel.

It was wonderful to get the opportunity to network

with so many of you and hear not only about

issues affecting the industry, but also the positive

work and leadership of members. As regulators,

being invited to be a part of these events is

integral to understanding what is happening in

hospitality around the state, and how we can

better support your businesses.

Thank you to the organisers, presenters and

attendees – who had some really great questions.

I have taken away many valuable insights that will

no doubt inform our work moving forward.

REVIEW / 19

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AWARD-WINNING CUSTOMER SERVICE

HOSTPLUS PROVIDES THE ASSISTANCE ITS MEMBERS AND

EMPLOYERS NEED, WHEN THEY NEED IT.

Whether you’re looking for support in person, over the phone, or Finally, self-service options are also available. Members can

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Thanks to the hard work of its customers service teams, Hostplus the Hostplus mobile app. They can also manage their account,

won Finder’s Customer Satisfaction Award for Legendary Service including changing investment options and insurance by logging

in 2024. 1

in to Member Online at hostplus.com.au.

Finder’s Customer Satisfaction Awards are voted on by super Whatever members’ preferred methods, Hostplus is here to help.

members, and Hostplus members rated its customer service the That’s a plus.

best among all super funds in the survey for 2024. 1

To find out more about the support available to Hostplus

Hostplus ServicePlus Centres are now in several states across members, or to book a meeting at a ServicePlus Centre, visit

the country, offering members the option to meet with the

hostplus.com.au/contact-us.

1

Hostplus team in person. Many members who visit just need to Finder Super Funds Customer Satisfaction Awards 2024

see a friendly face or get one-on-one help on a complex issue.

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Data from the Hostplus Annual Report 2024.

Hostplus ServicePlus teams can help members open a pension

account, follow up on an insurance claim, sign a binding

nomination form, or even just have a chat about their retirement.

This information is general advice only and does not take into

Last financial year, more than 5,000 members in Adelaide and

account your personal objectives, financial situation, or needs. You

should consider if this information is appropriate for you in light of

Melbourne enjoyed face-to-face service this way. 2

your circumstances before acting on it. Please read the relevant

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Recently, a new Hostplus ServicePlus Centre opened in Darwin,

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with more planned for Sydney, Brisbane, and Perth later this year. target market, please read the Target Market Determination, available

This will mean Hostplus members across the country can access

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Apple and the Apple logo are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered

in-person help when they need it.

in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple

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For those who prefer to access support from home, Hostplus

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contact centre teams are available via phone, email, social media, Issued by Host-Plus Pty Limited ABN 79 008 634 704, AFSL 244392

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/ 20

REVIEW

LEGAL MATTERS/ CURT SCHATZ

LIQUOR, GAMING, AND THE LAW

OPERATING A LICENCED HOTEL IN QUEENSLAND COMES WITH SIGNIFICANT RESPONSIBILITIES,

PARTICULARLY IN RELATION TO COMPLIANCE REQUIREMENTS SET OUT UNDER LEGISLATION AND

ADMINISTERED BY THE OFFICE OF LIQUOR AND GAMING REGULATION (OLGR).

Here, we explore what to expect during a compliance inspection

and some of the best practices for your hotel to ensure you do

not fall short of your obligations.

What to expect and compliance obligations

The OLGR is tasked with regulating the liquor and gaming

industries to promote safe and responsible practices to ensure:

• licensees uphold the conditions of their liquor and gaming

licences

• harm caused by excessive consumption of alcohol and

gambling is prevented or minimised

• public safety and order are maintained

• all licenced venues operate within the legal framework

prescribed by the Liquor Act 1992, the Gaming Machine Act

1991, and other relevant legislation

The OLGR maintains its compliance regime by utilising

compliance officers to conduct unannounced liquor and gaming

inspections at licenced venues, reactive inspections in response

to complaints received, and intelligence-led operations

targeting specific compliance risks.

These inspections can result in anything from a full examination

of all a venue’s obligations to a very narrow set of obligations,

and you should be prepared for any or all of the following to be

considered (this list is not exhaustive):

• presence of the approved manager (or otherwise the

approved manager being reasonably available)

• compliance with licence conditions for liquor and gaming

• advertising and signage obligations both externally and

internally

• maintenance and cleanliness of venue

• compliance with crowd control, CCTV, and other safety

obligations

• prescribed documentation (such as the liquor/gaming

licence, RSA/RSG certificates for relevant staff, riskassessed

management plan, approved manager certificate

and card, crowd control sign-on/incident register, and any

other workplace policies to evidence how re-entry pass

systems, management plans, advertising/signage, or age

identification are dealt with) being on-site and available

for inspection

• responsible service of alcohol, including whether unduly

intoxicated patrons are being supplied with or allowed to

consume liquor

• responsible service of gambling

Penalties

A failure to comply with these obligations can result in you and

your hotel having exposure to penalties being imposed by the

OLGR, including reprimands, fines, varying licence conditions

(for example, authority to trade, trading hours, and training

requirements), or in the most serious instances, suspension

or cancellation of licences and disqualifying the licensee from

holding a licence.

Recommendations

Proactive preparation is the best approach to managing OLGR

compliance inspections. Some strategies that can assist with

this are:

• keeping all prescribed documentation up to date and in a

convenient and easily accessible location to minimise the

risk of non-compliance or misplaced documentation and

minimise inspection time

• regularly training staff on compliance obligations to ensure

the operation of the hotel matches your legal obligations

and internal policies

• committing to keeping abreast of any changes to liquor

and gaming laws and updating practices accordingly – this

could be completed in conjunction with conducting internal

audits to ensure any potential compliance gaps are closed

• consulting with legal advisors to ensure your hotel meets its

obligations

If your hotel is preparing compliance procedures, reviewing

compliance procedures/records, or planning to update

them, it is strongly recommended you engage experienced

professionals for trusted advice that is appropriate and tailored

to your circumstances, your organisation, and your needs.

Please don’t hesitate to contact me on 07 3224 0230 if I can

assist you with this.

REVIEW / 21

ODE TO THE EARTH

THE GATEWAY TO THE NATURAL WONDERS OF CENTRAL

QUEENSLAND AND THE SOUTHERN GREAT BARRIER REEF HAS

WARMLY WELCOMED ITS FIRST FIVE-STAR HOTEL.

/ 22

REVIEW

FEATURE/ PEPPERS GLADSTONE

“OUR RAINFOREST

SUITES IMMERSE

GUESTS IN THE

TRANQUILLITY

AND SERENITY OF

QUEENSLAND’S LUSH

RAINFORESTS, AND

FEATURE MOSS-GREEN

TILES AND LUXURIOUS

WATERFALL SHOWERS.”

From its comfy and meaningful design to its luxurious

and varied accommodation, Peppers Gladstone is not

only a love letter to central Queensland, but also a

testament to the region’s elevating hospitality industry.

During the pandemic, our state saw a huge increase

in town-hoppers travelling up the east coast to iconic

holiday destinations like Cairns. As a result, the charming

seaside town of Gladstone and its pristine surroundings

became a popular stopover point for tourists.

General manager of Peppers and Mantra in Gladstone,

Craig Conley, said they continued to see an influx

of families and couples staying at their Mantra

property, which solidified the need for another major

accommodation option nearby.

"Always striving to lead the hospitality sector within

Gladstone, we constantly search for ways to complement

the high levels of customer service provided.

"With no five-star property in the region, and with the

growing expectations of guests seeking premier and

inspired accommodation, it was the right time to expand.

"As the tourism industry continues to grow both

domestically and internationally, travellers are looking for

destinations that are not as heavily populated – places

where they can gain an authentic local experience.

"Self-drive travel is especially appealing to international

travellers. Often, only the starting point and finishing point

are set by travel agents, so tourists are free to stop into

places where and when they like along the way," he said.

Only a few hours north of K’gari (Fraser Island) and six

and a half hours south of Airlie Beach, Peppers Gladstone

is tucked neatly amongst the diverse ecosystems of

the Southern Great Barrier Reef, and is designed to

complement the breathtaking scenery of the region.

REVIEW / 23

AIMING TO TAKE GUESTS ON A VISUAL JOURNEY

THROUGH QUEENSLAND’S LANDSCAPES

WHILE ADDING A TOUCH OF ELEGANCE AND

SOPHISTICATION, PEPPERS GLADSTONE

HONOURS OUR STATE’S CITIES, RAINFORESTS,

COASTS, AND BUSHLAND IN THE DESIGN OF ITS

COMMON AREAS AND GUEST ROOMS.

/ 24

REVIEW


Blending comfort with a deep connection to nature,

Craig said each space within the hotel reflects the

diverse beauty of central Queensland.

“There are four distinct room themes, with our

accommodation options ranging from elegant king

studio rooms to superior two-bedroom apartments.

Each room features a fully equipped kitchen and

thoughtfully designed spaces for those seeking an

elevated experience.

"Over the years we've noticed the demand for selfcontained

accommodation grow, which is why we

provide guests with all the facilities of home in a

generous-sized room.

"This model enables visitors to prepare their own meals,

stretch out on more furniture such as a comfy lounge or

daybed, and wash their clothes after a hard day’s work

– or a day spent at the beach.

"Our rainforest suites immerse guests in the

tranquillity and serenity of Queensland’s lush

rainforests, and feature moss-green tiles and luxurious

waterfall showers.

"Meanwhile, other rooms draw inspiration from the

vibrant hues of the Great Barrier Reef. Throughout the

hotel, we also have curated artworks from emerging

Australian artists that further capture the essence of the

region,” he said.

Aiming to take guests on a visual journey through

Queensland’s landscapes while adding a touch of

elegance and sophistication, Peppers Gladstone

honours our state’s cities, rainforests, coasts, and

bushland in the design of its common areas and

guest rooms.

Having been the original designers of the Mantra

Gladstone, it was BSPN Architecture that brought

this imaginative concept to life, all while tackling the

challenge of transforming Mantra’s existing car park

into a luxury five-star hotel.

Leading the BSPN team, Luis Nheu said Peppers

Gladstone was an exciting opportunity that pushed

their creativity and expertise.

“Our task was to reimagine the footprint of a car park

while working around existing columns, a post-tension

slab, and essential services from the hotel above. The

result was a seamless transformation that turned an

underutilised space into a hidden oasis.

"Stepping inside the venue, you’re instantly immersed in

a tranquil retreat where the outside world fades away,

replaced by an atmosphere of relaxation and escape.

“We’re incredibly proud of this outcome. The interiors

were thoughtfully designed to capture central

Queensland’s natural beauty – from serene bushlands

and lush rainforests to stunning coastlines and modern

cityscapes. Elements of these beautiful landscapes

helped inform the design.

BREATHTAKING CARPETS, ENGINEERED TO LAST

WANT TO TALK TO THE DECISION MAKERS?

GET INTO

THE RIGHT

HANDS

QHA REVIEW IS A TRUSTED

MONTHLY INDUSTRY MAGAZINE

TAILORED EXCLUSIVELY TO THE

NEEDS OF HOTEL GENERAL

MANAGERS AND PUBLICANS

THROUGHOUT QUEENSLAND.

SERVING HOSPITALITY SINCE 1885.

TO FIND OUT MORE, CONTACT

NICKY SPENCER 0405 271 247

QHAREVIEW@QHA.ORG.AU | QHA.ORG.AU

REVIEW / 25

“This project highlights the unique opportunities that

existing sites offer, demonstrating that repurposing an

existing structure can successfully transform it into a

distinctive and functional space. By adapting and revitalising

rather than building from scratch, this approach not only

reduces environmental impact but also proves to be a more

sustainable and cost-effective alternative,” he said.

Having collaborated on numerous hospitality projects

before, BSPN has a long-standing relationship with

Brintons – a global leader in the design and manufacture of

premium woven Axminster carpets and hand-tufted rugs for

hospitality spaces.

While easily overlooked, the design and craftsmanship of

commercial carpets is actually crucial to the look, feel, and

sustainability of modern hospitality venues. With over 230

years of experience behind them, Brintons understands the

art behind balancing function and aesthetics – ensuring their

carpets can withstand the heavy foot traffic while enhancing a

hotel’s overall atmosphere through thoughtful design.

Brand manager at Brintons, Leah Taylor, said when BSPN

approached them for the Peppers Gladstone project, they

were excited to help bring their design concepts to life.

“With themes inspired by the rainforest, bush, and coast,

our team was uniquely positioned to deliver custom carpets

and a bespoke rug that reflected the local environment

while meeting Peppers’ high standards. Our in-house design

capabilities and manufacturing expertise ensured that BSPN’s

creative vision translated seamlessly into a practical, highperformance

flooring solution.

“Carpets play a vital role in defining the ambience of

hospitality spaces. Beyond being functional, they contribute

by creating warmth, luxury, and visual interest. A thoughtfully

designed carpet can elevate the perception of a venue and

make lasting impressions on patrons. Durable, high-quality

carpets also reduce maintenance costs and ensure the space

“CARPETS PLAY A VITAL ROLE

IN DEFINING THE AMBIENCE OF

HOSPITALITY SPACES. BEYOND BEING

FUNCTIONAL, THEY CONTRIBUTE BY

CREATING WARMTH, LUXURY, AND

VISUAL INTEREST.

remains visually appealing for years to come, making them a

wise investment for hospitality operators.

“This project stood out for its strong connection to the

environment, with designs that referenced the surroundings

of Gladstone. The challenge was to interpret these organic

themes into textile form while maintaining a contemporary

aesthetic. The foyer’s rug required precise craftsmanship to

capture the intricate details inspired by the bush and coast.

Our ability to create custom samples and collaborate closely

with BSPN allowed us to deliver a cohesive and stunning

result,” she said.

/ 26

REVIEW


Hearing from all the passionate and creative minds behind

this project, it’s made clear that Peppers Gladstone is not

just a new place to stay in the city of Gladstone, but also

a reflection of central Queensland’s growth, awe-inspiring

landscapes, and untapped potential.

Needless to say, Craig said guests have been blown away by

the transformation of the hotel since it opened its doors last

month.

“From the Skybar and the inclusion of a Shingle Inn

restaurant to the swimming pool deck, the large art

pieces decorating the corridors, and the luxurious and

well-appointed rooms, Peppers Gladstone has certainly

surpassed the expectations of our community and our loyal

guests from interstate and abroad.

“We are incredibly proud of how the venue has come

together and are looking forward to accommodating people

travelling to one of Gladstone’s most iconic events. In April,

the 77th Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race will commence

and coincide with the Gladstone Harbour festival.

“A full weekend of activities is planned, including nightly

fireworks, the Yachtsman’s Longest Lunch, the Seafood

Festival, the Harbour Cruise Brunch, and the Line Crossing

Party. It will be a great weekend of celebrations that will

bring in a large crowd from all regions,” he said.

ARCHITECTURE

INTERIOR DESIGN

PROJECT MANAGEMENT

SYDNEY • MELBOURNE • BRISBANE

BSPN.COM.AU

REVIEW / 27

EMPLOYER OBLIGATIONS

FOR RECORD KEEPING

WITH THE RISE IN REPORTED WAGE THEFT AND EMPLOYEES CONTACTING THE FAIR

WORK OMBUDSMAN WITH REQUESTS FOR ASSISTANCE, EMPLOYERS ARE NOW

FACING GREATER SCRUTINY IN THE AREA OF RECORD KEEPING.

Maintaining accurate employee records is essential for

employers to avoid legal issues and ensure compliance with

Australia’s workplace laws. Properly managed employee records

can help prevent misunderstandings and disputes about wages,

and can importantly assist in passing inspections conducted by

Fair Work and Office of Industrial Relations inspectors and even

Australian Border Force officers.

Inspections can be random or initiated following receipt of

requests for assistance from former or current employees. If the

records cannot be produced or have not been kept properly,

there are two likely consequences:

1. The employee’s allegation about hours and days worked

is likely to be accepted over an employer response in the

absence of documentary evidence.

2. The employer will be fined for failing to keep proper records

in accordance with the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth) and may

have penalty and/or criminal proceedings taken against

them.

These penalties can be severe, and in cases where intentional

underpayment can be established, criminal charges may be

pursued.

In this article, we explore how employers can easily meet their

record-keeping obligations under the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth)

and the role of Fair Work inspectors and Australian Border

Force officers from the Department of Home Affairs.

Employee records

The first step for employers is to check their records to ensure

compliance with the Act and the Fair Work Regulations 2009

(‘the Regulations’). Under these pieces of legislation, employers

must make, keep, and maintain accurate and complete records

for all employees. It is important to remember that all national

system employees are covered by the Fair Work Act 2009,

regardless of their immigration status.

The record for each employee must include the following:

1. Basic employment details, including:

• the name of the employer and the employee

• the nature of the employee’s employment (for example,

full-time, part-time, permanent, temporary, or casual)

• the date on which the employment began

2. Their pay, including:

• the rate of remuneration paid to the employee

• the gross and net amounts paid to the employee

• any deductions made from the gross amount paid to

the employee

• the number of hours worked if they are a casual or

irregular part-time employee

• the details of any incentive-based payment, bonus,

loading, penalty rate, allowance, or separately

identifiable entitlement

3. Overtime hours, including:

• the number of overtime hours worked by the employee

during each day

• or when the employee started and ceased working

overtime hours

4. Averaging arrangements, specifically a copy of the

agreement reached between employer and employee

about the averaging of the employee’s hours of work.

5. Leave entitlements, including a record of each

respective leave balance and of any leave that the

employee takes. If an agreement is made to cash out an

accrued amount of leave, the record must include a copy

of the agreement, the rate of payment for the amount of

leave cashed out, and when the payment was made.

6. Superannuation contributions, including:

• the amount of the contributions made

• the period over which the contributions were made,

including the date on which each contribution was

made

• the name of the fund to which a contribution was made

• the basis on which the employer became liable to

make the contribution, including a record of any

election made by the employee as to the fund to which

contributions are to be made

7. Termination of employment, including whether

the employment was terminated by consent, notice,

summarily, or in some other manner, as well as the name

of the person who acted to terminate the employment.

/ 28

REVIEW

EMPLOYMENT RELATIONS/ SARAH SWAN

8. Individual flexibility arrangement, including a copy of

the agreement and a copy of the notice terminating that

agreement.

9. Guarantee of annual earnings, including a copy of the

guarantee and any revocation of the guarantee pursuant

to section 330 of the Act.

10. Transfer of business, in the event the regulations require

the old employer to transfer to the new employer each

employee record concerning a transferring employee

that the old employer was required to keep (being those

detailed above). The new employer who receives the

transferred employee records must keep these records

received from the old employer and must continue to

make and maintain the employee’s records thereafter.

11. Fair Work Information Statement and Casual

Employee Information Statement. All employees must

have been issued with a Fair Work Information Statement

upon commencement. For casual employees, they must

also have a Casual Employee Information Statement.

Payslips

Not only do employers have an obligation to maintain

accurate records, but they also have obligations regarding

payslips.

Employers are required to issue pay slips to employees

within one business day of the payment being made, either

electronically or as a hard copy. The pay slip must include:

• the name of the employer and the employee, as well as

the ABN of the employer

• the period to which the pay slip relates

• the date on which the payment to which the pay slip

relates was made

• the gross amount of the payment

• the net amount of the payment

• any amount paid to the employee that is a bonus,

loading (including casual loading), allowance,

penalty rate, incentive-based payment, or separately

identifiable entitlement

• the details of any deduction from the gross amount of

the payment

• if the employee is paid at an hourly rate, the rate of pay

for the ordinary hours, the number of hours worked, and

the amount of payment made at that rate

• if the employee is paid at an annual rate of pay, the

payslip must include the rate as of the latest date to

which the payment relates

• the details of the superannuation contributions,

including to which fund and the amount paid

The role of Fair Work inspectors and Australian Border

Force officers

Fair Work inspectors now have more powers to investigate

underpayment claims and conduct conducts to ensure

businesses are adhering to the Act, modern awards, and other

relevant workplace laws.

Inspectors are authorised to:

• enter business premises to verify compliance

• inspect records and interview staff

• request personal details if a violation is suspected

• issue notices for required records and enforce

compliance

In addition to Fair Work inspectors, Australian Border Force

(ABF) officers from the Department of Home Affairs are

conducting inspections at businesses that employ sponsored

visa holders under the Temporary Skills Shortage (subclass

482) visa program. As part of their inspections, ABF officers

focus on ensuring sponsored visa holders are not being subject

to exploitation in the workplace.

If an employer is found to have breached the Act, they can face

significant penalties, including prison time. For employers who

have engaged in serious, deliberate, or repeated exploitation of

visa holders, they may be prohibited from sponsoring additional

temporary visa holders for a period of time.

QHA members seeking more information or wishing to

discuss a specific employment relations matter are encouraged

to contact the employment relations department for a

confidential discussion by calling 07 3221 6999 or by emailing

er@qha.org.au.

REVIEW / 29

INDUSTRY ENGAGEMENT/ DAMIAN STEELE

CASH IS ESSENTIAL

THERE IS AN ONGOING PLACE FOR CASH IN OUR SOCIETY. ABOUT 1.5 MILLION

AUSTRALIANS USE CASH TO MAKE MORE THAN 80% OF THEIR IN‐PERSON PAYMENTS,

AND UP TO 94% OF BUSINESSES CONTINUE TO ACCEPT CASH.

Cash also provides an easily accessible backup to digital

payments in times of natural disaster or digital outage. It also

maintains privacy and can assist with budgeting. The importance

of maintaining cash as a payment option across different areas in

our industry, for our customers, cannot be overstated.

The Australian Government Treasury department currently has a

consultation paper – Mandating Cash Acceptance – to consider

the government’s intention to mandate that businesses supplying

essential goods and services must accept cash as a payment

method. Key aspects of the proposed cash mandate include:

• an appropriate definition of essential goods and services to

ensure cash can always be used to access the basics

• which businesses the mandate should apply to

• other features, such as transaction caps or time limits,

which may be necessary to ensure the mandate works for

businesses (particularly small businesses) and consumers

For our industry, where we already recognise the importance of

accepting cash, there is no requirement to compel businesses to

accept cash.

What is cash acceptance?

Cash acceptance refers to the practice of businesses accepting

cash as a form of payment for goods and services. Cash

acceptance levels must remain sufficient to enable consumers,

including those unable to use digital payment methods, to

participate in the economy.

Impacts of reduced levels of cash acceptance

Regional and remote areas can be more reliant on cash as a

payment method. This may be because disruptions in regional

areas (such as through digital outages or natural disasters) may

have a more significant impact than in metropolitan areas.

Older Australians may be disproportionately impacted by reduced

cash acceptance given their longstanding familiarity and trust in

the cash system. Many individuals prefer using cash due to its

simplicity and the sense of control it provides over their finances.

Transitioning to digital payments can be daunting, leading to a

sense of exclusion and frustration.

Privacy, safety, and trust

Privacy is acknowledged as a fundamental human right, but there

can be no guarantee of privacy without easy access to cash. Cash

transactions can provide individuals with more confidence that

they can maintain their privacy and safety and avoid or reduce

the risk of fraud, identity theft, or the digital abuse that can be

associated with electronic payments.

The anonymity of cash transactions means that personal

information is not shared, reducing the risk of data breaches and

financial fraud. Where consumers don’t feel safe or comfortable

with a business or individual they’re transacting with, they may

prefer to use cash to protect their privacy and safety.

Given digital payment systems rely on third-party access

to personal information, cash payment provides a method

of maintaining an individual’s privacy as it does not require

additional data disclosure.

Budgeting

Low-income households, younger Australians, and individuals

without access to credit cards can rely more on cash for daily

transactions and as a means of household budgeting. For these

groups, cash can be a tangible way to manage their finances,

helping them to avoid overspending.

One commonplace budgeting strategy involving cash is for a

household to take out in cash what can be spent for the week

ahead. Cash in this sense is used as a physical limiter and to

assist in keeping track of where the money goes. Cash budgeting

in this way allows for more tangible tracking of all cash inflows

and outflows.

There are also concerns regarding the push towards cashless

gambling systems and card-based gaming. This is because the

‘pain of payment’ is less when tokens or cards are used as a

monetary substitute, making spending less visible and therefore

less controlled. When people do not use cash, they tend to

spend more as they distance themselves emotionally from

their spending.

Cash supply must be maintained

Steps are required to ensure the long‐term and sustainable

distribution of cash to enable adequate access. This includes the

continued availability of cash-in-transit services and suppliers,

and the adequate provision of ATMs and cash banking facilities,

particularly in regional areas.

The government and banks must send firm market signals that

cash is here to stay to ensure continued confidence and certainty

for consumers and business investment.

Source acknowledgment: The Commonwealth of Australia -

Australian Government Treasury department Consultation Paper,

Mandating Cash Acceptance, December 2024.

/ 30

REVIEW

TRAINING/ THERESE KELLY

ADVANCING CAREERS

THROUGH ADULT EDUCATION

THE VALUE OF CERTIFICATE III IN HOSPITALITY

FOR CURRENT EMPLOYEES OF QHA MEMBER HOTELS.

In the fast-paced and dynamic space of hospitality, continuous

professional development is essential for both personal

and organisational success. For employees, pursuing adult

education, particularly the Certificate III in Hospitality, offers an

exceptional opportunity to enhance skills, deepen knowledge,

and position themselves for career advancement.

Bridging the skills gap

The hospitality industry thrives on a skilled workforce ready

to meet a variety of customer needs and adapt to evolving

market trends. Current employees may find their roles do not

fully capitalise on their potential – often due to insufficient

formal qualifications. The Certificate III in Hospitality aims to

address these gaps by offering comprehensive training tailored

specifically for those already working within member hotels.

Emphasising both theory and practical application, employees

can gain crucial skills in areas such as customer service

excellence, food safety regulations, and the intricacies of

efficient operational procedures. This dual focus provides

learners with the hands-on experience and training, allowing

them to elevate their performance on the job effectively.

Enhancing career opportunities

One of the most compelling benefits of obtaining a Certificate

III in Hospitality is the significant enhancement of career

opportunities. As establishments seek to foster internal

talent, having a formal qualification can distinguish dedicated

employees from their peers.

Hotel management often recognises the value of credentialed

staff, considering them for promotions, specialised positions, or

roles with greater responsibility. Operators within the industry

continue to seek professionals versatile enough to step into

various roles, from front-of-house management to food and

beverage services, event planning, and beyond. By obtaining this

qualification, employees not only expand their potential career

pathways, but they also contribute more meaningfully to their

organisations, fostering a qualified and motivated workforce

essential for sustained operational success.

Building confidence and competence

Engaging in adult education is much more than gaining

new knowledge – it’s essential for personal and professional

growth. The QHA program empowers employees to develop

their competencies, enhancing confidence as they master

new skills and overcome challenges inherent in their roles.

In a customer-centric industry, this newfound confidence

is vital, equipping employees with the ability to engage

effectively with guests, resolve issues, and deliver exceptional

service consistently.

With increased confidence comes improved performance in

customer-facing interactions. Employees become more adept

at navigating diverse situations, thus delivering a superior

experience that adheres to the hospitality industry’s high

standards. This not only fortifies their individual careers,

but also enhances the reputation and performance of their

respective hotels.

Networking and community building

Participating in adult education through the QHA provides

significant networking opportunities that extend beyond the

training program. Employees gain access to a community of

industry peers, prior graduates, and seasoned professionals.

Building these connections creates an environment ripe for

collaboration, mentorship, and the sharing of industry insights.

Furthermore, networking within this vibrant community can

facilitate professional opportunities, enabling employees to

stay abreast of trends, challenges, and innovations within

hospitality. Such relationships enrich personal experiences and

foster a robust support system that encourages growth and

development throughout an educational journey.

Embracing lifelong learning

In an ever-evolving industry, the idea of lifelong learning is more

critical than ever. Employees taking steps into adult education

signify a dedication to personal growth and adaptability. This

proactive approach to learning ensures that they remain

valuable assets to their QHA member hotels, equipped to

navigate changes in technology, customer preferences, and

global industry trends. A Certificate III in Hospitality paves

the way for future educational pursuits and professional

development. Graduates often seek further qualifications or

specialisations, contributing to a culture of continuous learning

that primes them for ongoing career success.

In summary, the advantages of adult education through the

Certificate III in Hospitality for current employees in industry

are numerous and far-reaching. From bridging essential skills

gaps to enhancing career progression, building confidence,

fostering professional networks, and promoting a culture of

lifelong learning, these benefits are profound. As the hospitality

industry continues to flourish, investing in education is a

strategic initiative for employees eager to make their mark

within this vibrant sector. Embrace the opportunity to learn,

grow, and excel in your hospitality career – the possibilities for

the future are boundless.

For more information on the QHA Certificate III Hospitality

program, please contact us at 3221 6999 or email

training@qha.org.au.

REVIEW / 31

INTERNATIONAL TOURISM RECOVERY

AND HOTEL PERFORMANCE

THE AUSTRALIAN ACCOMMODATION SECTOR WRAPPED UP 2024 ON A HIGH NOTE, WITH

DECEMBER OCCUPANCY RATES INCREASING BY 1.8% COMPARED TO THE PREVIOUS YEAR.

This is an excellent result, especially considering the ongoing

challenges such as lower international visitor numbers and the

continued impact of the cost of living on individuals, families,

and businesses. The sector’s resilience and ability to adapt

have been impressive, and we can take pride in its continued

success in overcoming these obstacles while delivering strong

performance and outstanding guest experiences.

LOCALLY, THE QHA WELCOMED DATA

CONFIRMING THAT THE TOURISM AND

HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY, SPECIFICALLY

IN QUEENSLAND, IS THRIVING.

Cairns and Brisbane in particular have recorded two of

the highest occupancy rates in the nation for the year

ending 2024.

While traditional tourism hotspots like the Gold Coast did fare

well in 2024. It was Cairns (76.3% occupancy) that was on

the podium, coming in third behind Perth and Sydney as the

highest hotel occupancy in the nation. Brisbane was a strong

fourth, only just behind with 76.2%.

Impressively, Cairns demonstrated an 8.9% growth in

occupancy, which showcases the strength of its local offering

and ability to attract new guests to the north Queensland

market. There was a strong growth in revenue and occupancy

in almost all areas of the state, with the Gold Coast still

growing despite increasing competition from throughout

the world.

With the 2025 events calendar in Queensland looking

promising with drawcards such as the British & Irish Lions

rugby tour, the NRL Magic Round, and a thriving business

events landscape, there is reason for optimism.

Tourism Research Australia national results

Per the latest data release from Tourism Research Australia,

based on the results for the year ending September 2024,

from an international standpoint, the main purpose of visiting

Australia was for a holiday (42%), to visit friends and relatives

(34%), for business (10%), for education (6%), and for other

reasons (7%).

The recovery in holiday arrivals to Australia was slower than

what was occurring in some other destinations globally, as

many international travellers were drawn to short-haul holiday

travel. International travel is still below pre-pandemic levels –

growth has been slow, but the numbers are still increasing.

Recovery and international visitation snapshot

The recovery in international markets has been uneven.

Below are the rankings in relation to the percentage of

recovery versus pre-pandemic for the year ending September

24 and the corresponding visitor arrivals for the year ending

September 2024:

• Vietnam – 147% – 176,767

• Korea – 134% – 369,684

• India – 111% – 427,210 (number five in the market – spend in

Australia was $1.5 billion, 16% up from September 2019)

• Philippines – 109% – 171,896

• Indonesia – 100% – 219,231

• New Zealand – 97% – 1,370,088 (number one in the

market – spend in Australia was $2.1 billion, 30% up from

September 2019)

• United Kingdom – 87% – 624,516 (number four in the

market – spend in Australia was $2.1 billion, 16% up from

September 2019)

• Canada – 86% – 165,497

• Singapore – 85% – 406,258

• USA – 85% – 698,626 (number three in the market – spend

in Australia was $2 billion, 99% of September 2019 levels)

• Taiwan – 84% – 163,963

• Japan – 77% – 381,120

• Hong Kong – 69% – 216,235

• China – 60% – 859,428 (number two in the market – spend

in Australia was $7.9 billion, 77% of September 2019 levels)

• Malaysia – 52% – 200,505

Some standouts from the results shown are the significance of

China only having a 60% recovery despite it being the second

biggest market already. Other notable observations include:

• New Zealand is the number one market and will be for

years to come

• global trends – short-haul destinations are the preference

and have been the quickest to recover

• Americans are high-spending travellers and the USA’s

aviation capacity has been increasing

• the United Kingdom’s pre-pandemic growth has stagnated

and is not expected to grow dramatically

• India was the fastest-growing market pre-pandemic – it’s

now the fifth largest market and is forecast to maintain this

position through to 2029

/ 32

REVIEW

ACCOMMODATION/ TOM FITZGERALD

• there is a big emphasis on south east Asia (which is

comprised of 11 nations, with the key markets being

Vietnam, the Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia,

and Singapore)

• south east Asia is averaging an expected 45% growth

rate from 2024 to 2029 (10 times the growth of New

Zealand and the United Kingdom)

• collectively, south east Asia is a bigger market than

New Zealand or China and is seeing a continued

increase in flight connections

• there was a record international spend of $33.2 billion

in 2024, with a growth in spending anticipated at a

slightly faster rate than visitation

• domestic travel has experienced fluctuations in 2023

and 2024, but is forecast to grow from 2026

• holidays are the top reason for domestic travel –

however, these trips are shorter than they used to be

For 2025 in Queensland, major sporting events and

concerts will continue playing a crucial role in driving

tourism and delivering benefits across the industry. The

push for hotel investment and infrastructure upgrades

continues to be at the forefront with the impending

Olympic Games.

With Queensland boasting exceptional conferencing

assets across the state, the focus must continue to be on

ensuring long-term stable growth across the business,

meeting, incentive, conference, and exhibition sectors to

create a balanced visitor economy that smooths out the

peaks and troughs.

With the change in state government in Queensland

comes a new direction for tourism strategy. The QHA is

participating in the Tourism Future Planning consultation

sessions, ensuring the agenda promotes favourable

trading conditions now and into the future.

In addition, this year marks a federal election, and the

QHA will continue to work alongside Accommodation

Australia on priorities, concerns, and key issues to be

put forward on things like the cost of living, workforce

shortages, migration, liquor excise rates, and skills

development.

We look forward to working with all QHA members,

industry partners, and policymakers to drive growth,

innovation, and long-term success for Queensland’s

accommodation and tourism sector.

CALENDAR

APRIL

2025.

RMLV

RMLV

CLO/GNT

CLO

BOOK TRAINING NOW

REVIEW / 33

CERVEZA

MEXICAN

LAGER

BURLEIGH BREWING CO

GINGER BEER

MATSO’S

GORILLA

MODE

THUNDER

PUNCH HAZY

IPA

ORPHAN

BANK 2019

SHIRAZ

LANGMEIL BAROSSA

PHILLIPS BREWING &

MALTING CO

It’s funny how over time your

taste buds change, and at

times you hanker for certain

foods and drinks. Having

perhaps overindulged in

so many hefty IPAs of late,

there’s been a renewed

desire for refreshing

lagers with our hot, humid

weather. The release of

Burleigh Brewing’s Cerveza

is perfectly timed because

it fits the bill of our newly

discovered lager love. With

a twist of real lime, this is

an absolute cracker, and

it even picked up a Silver

at this year's World Beer

Championship.

Alcoholic ginger beers

can often be quite sweet

and sickly, but this one

by Matso’s, reportedly

Australia’s first alcoholic

ginger beer, is zingy

with a nice gingery bite

and consequently, so, so

refreshing. Coupled with

a wedge of lime, it hit just

the spot on a hot summer’s

day. In our humble opinion,

Matso’s and Diablo are in

a field of their own when it

comes to alcoholic ginger

beers. They’re quite simply a

class above the rest.

Well, we always have to

throw a bit of a wildcard out

there, and there’s nothing

better than this Thunder

Punch hailing from what we

proclaim is the best craft

brewery in British Columbia

– Canada. This thing will first

kiss you with its silky-smooth

base of wheats and oats

before it smashes you about

the chops with whacks

of tropical fruit and citrus.

Getting bashed up has never

been so enjoyable. Beat me

please.

Quite possibly one of the

nicest reds we’ve ever had

the pleasure of indulging

in. It’s inky and rich and

bursting with the flavours of

plum and raspberry. The fruit

is well balanced with hints of

pepper, and then there are

these amazing fine-grained

tannins on an incredibly

lengthy finish. Wow.

/ 34

REVIEW

TOP DROP

BRUT+ CIDER

MÉTHODE

TRADITIONELLE

SUNSHINE COAST CIDER

TO BE

CONTINUED...

CONTINUOUSLY

HOPPED DIPA

HELIOS BREWING COMPANY

GERMAN

HOPPED HAZY

IPA

GREEN BEACON BREWING

CO

POINT PERRY

PALE ALE

COOLUM BEER CO

So freaking nice. Made in

a similar way to French

Champagne, the cider is

created from fresh Granite

Belt apples (which you can

smell as soon as you uncork

the bottle) and then left

to mature for a secondary

fermentation period of

12 months. Dry, fragrant,

bubbly, and with a perfect

dab of sweetness. Amazing.

Simply put, these guys rock.

Every beer they brew is an

ode to the love of amber

nectar. This fantastic West

Coast DIPA is sheer joy in

a can.

Uncovering something

new is always enjoyable.

This combines all that we

love about hazy IPAs with

the light citrusy taste of

a quality wheat beer. Dry

and moderately bitter, it

has delectable notes of his

melon, tangerine, and citrus

with a hint of pear.

Nice and refreshing with

notes of stone fruit, lime, and

pine with a dry finish. There’s

a good base of biscuity and

caramel malts added into

the mix. Very enjoyable.

REVIEW /35

SOAK

IT IN

SLIPSTREAM BREWING SOCIAL HOUSE IS A FRESH TAKE ON WHAT CRAFT BEER

VENUES DO BEST – BRINGING GREAT FLAVOURS AND GREAT PEOPLE TOGETHER.

/ 36

REVIEW

A CRAFTY BUNCH/ SLIPSTREAM BREWING SOCIAL HOUSE

Founded by the amazing humans behind Slipstream

Brewing Co in Yeerongpilly, Social House opened in

October last year and continues to be adored by locals and

tourists for embodying the pure flavour and character of a

Queensland brewhouse.

Although, the new Sunshine Coast venue seems more like the

natural evolution of the craft breweries we’ve come to know

and love – especially with its airy, modern spaces and its fullyfledged

menu designed to perfectly complement Slipstream's

summery beer portfolio.

Director and owner of the brewery, Elisa Stanley-Hunt, said

they had been considering an option for a second venue for

a while, but without the need for additional beer production,

they knew it would be a hospitality-first space.

“We were looking at various areas until we became aware

of this location in the heart of Birtinya that had the right

infrastructure already in place. All we needed to do was

bring our personality, our beers, and our passion for great

hospitality to make it our own.

“EXPANDING TO THE SUNSHINE COAST

FELT LIKE A NATURAL PROGRESSION,

AS THE REGION HAS A GREAT CRAFT

BEER CULTURE."

“The process has been an exciting challenge, from designing

a space that reflects our brand to building relationships with

local suppliers. Now that the doors are open, we’re thrilled to

see people embracing what we’ve created.

“Expanding to the Sunshine Coast felt like a natural

progression, as the region has a great craft beer culture.

Opening a venue here allows us to connect with a wider

community within south east Queensland,” she said.

Unlike the Slipstream’s Yeerongpilly location, which also

doubles as a full-scale production site, there is no brewing at

Social House. However, Elisa said their focus remains on what

matters most – beer, food, and creating a welcoming space for

people to come together.

“The aim was to develop a relaxed, hospitality-driven venue

where guests can enjoy our beers alongside a coastal-inspired

menu that highlights fresh, locally sourced ingredients. We

wanted to bring a taste of Slipstream to the Sunshine Coast

while ensuring the venue feels right at home in its new

surroundings.

REVIEW /37

“Our menu was adapted to the local market and what fit the

kitchen the best, so it isn’t just a repeat of our Brisbane menu.

We’re also looking at building up our beverage offering beyond

beer over the next few months and we will be making some

exciting announcements on this,” she said.

When asked how Social House has been received by the

Sunshine Coast community, Elisa simply said the response has

been incredible.

“From day one, we’ve felt a warm welcome from the locals. The

area was missing a great hospitality venue, so we’ve quickly

become a go-to spot for them to catch up with friends, enjoy a

great meal, and of course sip on quality beers.

“Our team has already built a great rapport with the regulars,

which has been fantastic to see. We’ve been listening closely to

feedback since opening and will be making adjustments where

possible to match what the local community is looking for.

“The Sunshine Coast has a strong craft beer culture, and we’re

proud to be part of it. People here appreciate quality and love

supporting independent businesses, which aligns perfectly with

what we’re all about,” she said.

“WE’RE PASSIONATE ABOUT

STORYTELLING, PARTICULARLY

THROUGH OUR LIMITED-RELEASE

BEERS. MOST OF OUR RELEASES ARE

PART OF A SERIES, TAKING CONSUMERS

ON A JOURNEY OF DISCOVERY."

/ 38

REVIEW


2024 was certainly a huge year for Slipstream. In addition

to opening the new venue, the brand was also awarded

Best Small/Medium Brewery at the Royal Queensland

Beer Awards. Their lead brewer, Dan Thompson, was also

recognised as Queensland's Best Emerging Brewer.

While Slipstream continues to refine its hop-forward range

of core beers and deliver a lineup of quality IPAs, Elisa said

they’ve also been pushing boundaries with some crazy

new releases.

“Our Pandan-monium Pandan Coconut Ice Cream Sour

was one of the fastest-selling packaged beers we’ve

ever released, proving there’s still a thirst for unique and

adventurous flavours. We also launched Gold – the first

beer in our Wild Ale barrel-aged fermentation program –

which marks an exciting new chapter for us.

“We’re thrilled with the responses we’ve received from

some of our limited releases and can’t wait to bring more

innovative releases to life this year. Our latest series, Thrill

Seeker, showcases the incredible flavours of New Zealand

hops and has been hugely popular over the last 12 months.

“We’re passionate about storytelling, particularly through

our limited-release beers. Most of our releases are part of

a series, taking consumers on a journey of discovery. We

encourage people to explore new flavours, get caught in

the slipstream, and always be eager for the next offering.

There’s plenty more to come,” she said.

Always the ones to delight their community and put a

unique twist on everything they do, Slipstream hosts one

major event each month around a theme or flavour. Elisa

said they even create pilot batch beers specifically for these

events, pairing them with exciting food offerings, live music,

or other activations.

Specialists in gaming transitions,

tailored refurbishment and fit-out

services for clubs across Queensland.

Contact us to start your

transformation today.

michael@caughleyco.com.au

caughleyco.com.au

0434 549 242

“Every project is personal. Every client’s

satisfaction is non-negotiable.” - Michael Caughley

REVIEW / 39


“We’re focusing on experiential trends in our venues. People

want more than just great beer – they’re after a memorable

time. Whether it’s beer-pairing dinners, live music, or interactive

events, consumers are seeking deeper connections with the

brands they love.

“Our event days have become major drivers, bringing people

through the doors to experience our venue in a new light once

a month. Additionally, we’re seeing a growing demand for

alternative beverages. For instance, we recently launched our

own Hard Peach Tea on tap, which has been well received.

This has led us to explore other products that we could produce,

offering customers even more options to enjoy,” she said.

Slipstream has managed to maintain a great balance across

their wholesale and venue distribution channels, solidifying

their strong position in what is becoming a very tough market

for indie brewers – especially with the beer tax in Australia

increasing by another 0.4% in February.

Elisa emphasised that, by backing craft breweries, venues help

keep the beer scene vibrant while creating local jobs and giving

customers a truly special experience.

“Independent breweries bring creativity and community spirit

to the industry, offering unique beers with real stories behind

them. We support local farmers, employ local staff, and reinvest

in the community.

“For venues, offering independent beers gives customers

something distinctive, not just another generic option.

Consumers appreciate seeing local brews on tap and knowing

they’re supporting homegrown businesses.

“We are continually planning exciting events and new beer

releases. Look out for more beers from our Wild Ale program

and of course some more delicious, hoppy IPAs – they were our

first love here at Slipstream,” she said.

/ 40

REVIEW

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A CRAFTY BUNCH/ DACELO DISTILLING

THE

SPIRIT OF

LAUGHTER

REMINISCENT OF THE AUSTRALIAN BUSH AND

BELONGING TO THE TAXONOMIC GENUS DACELO,

IT’S NO SURPRISE THAT THE KOOKABURRA

INSPIRED DACELO DISTILLING’S EXTRAORDINARY

RANGE OF AROMATIC SPIRITS.

Handcrafting gin on the Sunshine Coast, Sammy Franks

and Siobhan founded Coolum Beach’s first artisan craft

distillery in 2023 and have already garnered plenty of

accolades at the Australian Gin Awards for their efforts.

While it was the inquisitive, social, and jovial kookaburras

around their home that sparked the pair’s initial inspiration,

Sammy said it was their love of Australian botanicals

combined with one delicious, fateful gin on a deck at sunset

that kept the fire glowing.

“We wanted to show diverse innovation when we created

our contemporary range of spirits. Our restraint on juniper

helps highlight the native botanicals, which are so gentle on

the palate.

“These gins respect tradition while pushing boundaries –

they encourage you to challenge your ideology, step outside

your comfort zone, and let your palate party.

“One of our proudest gins is our Banksia Blue-Winged – a

crisp Australian banksia gin named after the blue-winged

kookaburra.

"Hints of floral and citrus botanicals lend a piney freshness

to this gin, while butterfly pea flowers also give it a bright

and natural ‘blue-winged’ appearance.

“A splash of tonic or a touch of citrus is all that’s needed

to transform this gin into a shade of lovely lavender. It truly

tastes like Australia,” she said.

Each of Dacelo’s spirits is imbued with the nostalgic tastes

and smells of unique native botanicals like gumbi gumbi,

banksia robur, muntrie berries, wattle seed, pandanus nut,

white kunzea, lemon myrtle, lemon tea tree, old man salt

bush, and strawberry gum – which are all either handpicked

or sourced from sustainable local growers.

“A SPLASH OF TONIC OR A TOUCH OF

CITRUS IS ALL THAT’S NEEDED TO

TRANSFORM THIS GIN INTO A SHADE

OF LOVELY LAVENDER. IT TRULY

TASTES LIKE AUSTRALIA.”

Very soon, the brand will be launching a premium

botanical vodka range, a native limoncello, and an Aussie

liqueur. Impassioned by their incredible accomplishments

so far, Dacelo is looking to break free of their fledgling era

and soar out of the nest across the country and into the

retail world.

Perfectly suited for contemporary mixers and a fascinating

cocktail range, we couldn’t recommend Dacelo’s one-ofa-kind,

authentically Australian collection of spirits more.

For venues looking for further information, please contact

Sammy at 0415 882 746 or info@dacelodistilling.com.au.

/ 42

REVIEW

Callaghan Park,

Rockhampton Jockey Club

RACE

DAY

March 25 th 2025

tickets

available now!

Tickets are available to purchase at qha.org.au

or email rsvp@qha.org.au to request an invoice.

A CRAFTY

BUNCH

Ballistic Beer Co

Ballistic Beer Co challenges traditional

notions of beer with a simple philosophy

– fresh beer is the best beer. Brewing in

small, frequent batches and storing their

creations cold ensures every sip bursts with

the same flavour the brewers intended.

With three locations (the first housed in a

historic World War II ammunition factory

in Salisbury), this innovative brewery

combines heritage with modern craft

beer excellence. Dedicated to quality and

creativity, Ballistic Beer Co offers a range of

exceptional brews for everyone to enjoy.

07 3277 6656

ballisticbeer.com

Blackflag Brewing

With two locations on the Sunshine Coast,

Blackflag Brewing is a craft brewery

celebrated for its bold and inventive beers.

Focused on quality and creativity, it offers

a diverse selection of brews to satisfy all

beer enthusiasts. The brewery’s relaxed

and welcoming atmosphere is perfect for

enjoying exceptional beers while soaking

in the vibrant, dynamic vibe. Each beer is

crafted with a focus on pure flavour, with

seasonal and limited-edition brews also

available.

07 5478 2521

beer@blackflagbeer.com.au

blackflagbrewing.com.au

Brisbane Brewing Co

Family-owned since 2005, Brisbane

Brewing Co is Brisbane’s longest-running

independent brewery, renowned for its

award-winning beers. Crafted to suit the

city’s climate, their brews bring together

beer enthusiasts who appreciate locally

made craft beer. Known for its welcoming

and unpretentious atmosphere, Brisbane

Brewing Co offers a relaxed environment

where you can enjoy exceptional beers.

With a focus on quality and community, it

remains a staple in Brisbane’s craft beer

scene.

07 3891 1011

brisbanebrewing.com.au/wholesale

Burleigh Brewing Co

Burleigh Brewing, on Queensland’s

stunning Gold Coast, is celebrated for

brewing premium, award-winning beers.

For over eighteen years, the brewery

has led the beer scene, blending quality

and innovation to offer a diverse range

of premium beers – from crisp lagers

to bold ales – that embody the region’s

vibrant culture. With its relaxed, welcoming

atmosphere, Burleigh Brewing is a mustvisit

for beer enthusiasts, offering an

experience that pairs perfectly with its

dedication to excellence and the art of

brewing.

07 5593 6000

burleighbrewing.com.au

The Catchment Brewing Co

Located in a beautiful art deco building

in West End, The Catchment Brewing Co

is a fully operational brewery, bar, and

restaurant. It’s the ultimate destination

for craft beer enthusiasts, food lovers,

and event hosts. Known for its awardwinning

core range inspired by iconic local

streets and innovative seasonal brews,

the brewery delivers exceptional quality

in every sip. With a focus on community

and authenticity, Catchment Brewing Co

embodies the spirit of West End. Crafted for

locals, loved everywhere.

07 3846 1701

catchmentbrewingco.com.au

Dacelo Distilling

Inspired by the kookaburra, Dacelo

Distillery crafts premium native Australian

spirits embodying “The Spirit of Laughter.”

Founders Sammy and Siobhan blend

Australian botanicals like pepper berries,

pandanus nut, gumbi gumbi, banksia robur,

and lemon tea tree to create clean, vibrant

gin and vodka with no artificial additives.

Paired with contemporary mixers or crafted

into unique cocktails, Dacelo’s spirits bring

a distinct Australian touch to any bar. This

fledgling distillery aims to spread its wings

across Australia’s retail scene.

0415 882 746

info@dacelodistilling.com.au

dacelodistilling.com.au

/ 44

REVIEW

A CRAFTY

BUNCH

Felons Brewing Co

Felons Brewing Co is a modern brewery

celebrating creativity and the good life.

Their brewery finds its name from the true

tale of four felons who, on their way to

Illawarra from Sydney in 1823, were blown

off course and found themselves lost at

sea, ending up shipwrecked north on

Moreton Island. Each beer is brewed with

passion and innovation and reflects a thirst

for life’s adventures. Visit Felons Brewing

Co in Brisbane beneath the Story Bridge

or in Sydney at the iconic Manly Wharf to

experience their unique brews.

07 3188 9090

felonsbrewingco.com.au

Fortitude Brewing Co

Fortitude Brewing Co is a renowned craft

brewery celebrated for its exceptional

range of premium beers. Located in the

scenic Tamborine Mountains, it blends

innovation with tradition, offering a diverse

selection of ales, lagers, and seasonal

brews. Crafted with quality ingredients and

an unwavering passion for excellence, each

sip captures the spirit of craftsmanship.

With a welcoming taproom and stunning

views, Fortitude Brewing Co. is the perfect

destination for beer enthusiasts and those

seeking a memorable experience.

07 5545 4273

fortitudebrewing.com.au

Green Beacon Brewing Co

Green Beacon Brewing Co is a pioneer

in Brisbane’s beer scene, offering awardwinning

brews like Wayfarer Tropical Pale

Ale, Sub Tropic Low Carb, and Windjammer

IPA. Founded in 2013, their beers embody

flavour and balance and are highly

sessionable. Inspired by Moreton Island,

the brand’s birthplace, Green Beacon

Brewing Co reflects the spirit of sitting on

sun-soaked dunes, gazing over the bay, and

guiding travellers with a safe, steady light.

0460 408 697

info@greenbeacon.com.au

greenbeacon.com.au

Slipstream Brewing & Social House

Slipstream Brewing Co is an independently

owned brewery in Brisbane, renowned

for its accessible, sessionable beers

crafted with passion. Their brews deliver

freshness, juiciness, and zest, and their

Sunshine Coast sister venue, Slipstream

Social House, offers the perfect setting

to enjoy these exceptional beers paired

with delicious food. Bridging the gap

between bland and overly complicated

brews, Slipstream Brewing Co ensures a

memorable, uncompromising craft beer

experience for all beer lovers.

07 3892 4582

slipstreambrewing.com.au

Straddie Brewing Co

On North Stradbroke Island, Straddie

Brewing Co crafts exceptional beers

inspired by island life. The three-storey

brewery uses naturally sand-filtered water

to create innovative yet easy-drinking

craft beers reflecting the island’s relaxed

atmosphere. Committed to sustainability

and community, Straddie Brewing Co is

more than a brewery – it’s a gathering

place where locals and visitors enjoy islandcrafted

beers while watching stunning

sunsets over Australia.

07 3469 6726

straddiebrewing.com.au

Sunshine Coast Cider

As Queensland’s only cidery, Sunshine

Coast Cider blends tradition, innovation,

and sustainability. With 25 generations

of heritage, their award-winning ciders

– like the 2024 Best in Class Brut+ Cider

Méthode Traditionalle – showcase Granite

Belt apples. Crafted from 100% Queensland

fruit, their ciders offer pure, refreshing

flavour while promoting sustainable

practices. Upgrade your tap list with real

craft cider.

0435 022 975

mail@sunshinecoastcider.com.au

sunshinecoastcider.com.au

REVIEW / 45

SHOW

CASE

GAMING

TODAY, OPERATING A GAMING VENUE REQUIRES A

STRONG COMMITMENT TO INNOVATION, ADAPTATION,

AND CUSTOMER CARE

As one of the most carefully regulated sectors of our industry, gaming is

constantly shifting Queensland’s hospitality landscape. This means keeping

up with the valuable insights and trends of technology such as electronic

gambling machines (EGMs) is of the utmost importance for hotels and pubs.

SO MUCH MORE THAN JUST A REVENUE STREAM,

GAMING IS INCREDIBLY MULTIFACETED, AND

EVOLVES EVERY DAY IN THE REALMS OF SAFETY,

HARM MINIMISATION, AND EVEN SUSTAINABILITY.

Beyond the colourful and shiny new developments of the gaming machines

themselves, innovation in this sector is found in everything from the

service, repair, and maintenance of EGMs to gaming performance and data

analysis, responsible gambling services and security, staff training, customer

communications, promotions, and gaming room design.

Of course, the experts behind all of these topics come together every year at

key industry events such as the Australasian Hospitality and Gaming Expo

(AHG) – held at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre on 12 and

13 March – and the Australasian Gaming Expo (AGE) – hosted at the ICC

Sydney on 12 and 14 August.

So, in the lead-up to two of the biggest gaming expos in the southern

hemisphere, we have decided to dedicate some pages to the exhibitors

showcasing the latest hospitality products, services, and gaming technology

around.

/ 46

REVIEW

SHOWCASE/ NEXT PAYMENTS

THE LATEST

AND GREATEST

NEXT PAYMENTS DISCUSSES BRINGING OUT THEIR MOST POPULAR CASH

MANAGEMENT AND DIGITAL SOLUTIONS AT THE 2025 AHG EXPO.

This year, visit Next Payments at stand 139 to explore how our

new products and innovative technology can elevate your

venue’s operations.

Introducing the next generation of Cash Redemption

Terminals

Get ready to upgrade your CRT! We will be debuting our

new, Next Gen CRT at the show, which boasts a sleek design,

enhanced user interface, and advanced functionality to improve

customer satisfaction and enhance your gaming area.

Hospitality business intelligence tools that drive results

Unlock powerful insights with our EAGLEi360 business

intelligence tool and GSL Loyalty Program. From real-time

venue analytics to seamless communication, these solutions are

designed to streamline operations and boost patron engagement.

Win big when you visit Next!

While you are at our stand, enter our exclusive giveaway

for a chance to win:

• First prize – Magnum Veuve Clicquot

• Second prize – $100 GSL eftpos gift card

• Third prize – $50 GSL eftpos gift card

Winners will be announced via email by 28 March.

Trudy, Scotty, Christine, Jason, and Ash from the Next Payments

Queensland Sales Team can’t wait to meet you all and deliver

tailored product demonstrations, ensuring you find the perfect

solutions for your venue.

Don’t miss out – see you soon at the 2025 AHG!

Meet our Next Gen CRT at

the 2025 AHG Expo!

Plus, explore our entire range of

cash management and digital solutions!

Why upgrade to

the Next Gen CRT?

Modern Design: Its stylish design comes with

customisable LED lights to match your venue’s look.

Improved Accessibility: The 24” screen is positioned

lower than our CRT Gold for easier access.

Faster Payouts: Enjoy significantly quicker

transactions with an intuitive, user-friendly interface.

Supervisor Access: Supervisors can log in faster

by simply tapping their card on the NFC reader.

See us at stand #139

High Performance: Designed to meet the

demands of busy gaming venues.

Visit us at the AHG for an in-person product demonstration or reach out for more information.

nextpayments.com.au | 1300 659 918 | info@nextpayments.com.au

SHOWCASE/ AHG EXPO

10 YEARS

STRONG

A DECADE SINCE IT ALL STARTED, THE AHG EXPO IS GETTING

READY FOR THE SHOW OF A LIFETIME.

On Wednesday March 12 and Thursday March 13, the Australasian

Hospitality and Gaming (AHG) Expo, presented by TAB, MAX &

SKY, will take over the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre.

It’s hard to believe the first AHG Expo took place 10 years ago.

From its humble beginnings on the Gold Coast, it has grown

to become a cornerstone event on the Australasian hospitality

and gaming industry calendar and a must-attend for industry

members all over the country (and beyond).

Perhaps it’s because, over the years, the AHG Expo has played

host to many an exciting moment, including world-first product

launches, a thrilling eSports tournament, and keynote speeches

by the industry’s best.

Or maybe it’s the wealth of information and innovation it provides

to business owners and managers? Bringing together the very

best of the industry under one convenient roof, it’s impossible to

say how many products and services have been implemented into

Aussie venues thanks to the AHG Expo, or how many enduring

business partnerships have started on the expo floor.

There’s no denying that visitors see the value. General manager

of Tea Gardens Country Club, Warren Gooley, said their team

travelled a long way for the 2024 event.

“IT OFFERS SUCH A WIDE VARIETY

OF IDEAS FOR OUR VENUE, ALL THE

LATEST IN GAMING MACHINES, AND

ALSO THE LATEST ADVANCEMENTS IN

INDUSTRY TECHNOLOGY ALL UNDER

THE ONE ROOF.”

Manager at the Stanthorpe RSL, Glenn Boston, agreed.

“We’re on the hunt for the latest in catering equipment, coffee

machines, gaming, and payment services.

“It was important to bring as many of our team as possible

along so that everyone could check out the latest in technology

across their specific area of expertise,” he said.

At the 2025 AHG Expo, a brand-new addition – the

Discovery Deck – will deliver even more value to visitors.

This special speakers’ stage will be a place to discuss key

industry trends and advances, innovations, technology, and

business development.

Presentations on the Discovery Deck will occur on day one of

the expo (Wednesday March 12), with each speaker sharing

a 20-minute presentation, followed by a further 10 minutes to

field audience questions.

And there’s even more to look forward to. The 2025 AHG Expo

will also unveil a new Happy Hour, taking place from 4:00pm to

5:00pm at the end of day one. Join your fellow industry members

to debrief on all things expo over a knock-off drink (or two).

Previous visitors will be excited by the ever-popular AHG Expo

Diageo Cocktail Competition, which is set to return to the expo

floor for the third year. This year, however, it’s open to entrants

from pubs, clubs, and bars all over Australia – for the very

first time.

Thanks to Diageo, the three talented finalists will all receive

return flights to Bundaberg to visit their iconic distillery for

a VIP blending experience. The winner on the day will also

receive a $500 Visa gift card, plus a case of their own unique

rum blend which they can use in their own venue. Yes, the 2025

competition is shaping up to be the fiercest yet.

Now is the time to register as a visitor for the 2025 AHG Expo

at www.ahgexpo.com. It’s totally free to attend, but registering

will save you time on arrival and ensure you don’t miss out on

any important expo correspondence ahead of the event.

Please note the AHG Expo is a trade-only event, and suppliers

to the industry are not eligible to attend unless exhibiting.

/ 48

REVIEW

TRAINING & SAFETY RTO CONTRIBUTORS

30826/ THERESE KELLY

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS

12 & 13 MARCH 2025

PLAN YOUR VISIT

WEDNESDAY 12 MARCH

10.00am

Expo doors opens

On the Discovery Deck

11.00am

11.45am

12.30pm

1.15pm

2.00pm

Future-proofing your venue by unlocking property assets for

long-term success - Anna Porter, Urbanite

Harnessing visas and migration for a competitive business

advantage - Abigail Jones, You Solved

How to future-proof clubs with smart strategies

- Andrew O’Connell, Altis Architecture

The art of kitchen management – Finding control and

transparency on your costs - Andrew Briese, Quantaco

How prize indemnity insurance can boost your sales & marketing

strategy - Lisa Carter and Jen Bettridge, Clear Insurance

2.45pm Wages are the easiest problem to solve in your P&L in 2025 –

Change my mind! - Nick Braban, TANDA

4.00pm

Expo doors close

Happy hour on the show floor (concludes at 5:00pm)

THURSDAY 13 MARCH

10.00am

Expo doors opens

On the Discovery Deck

11.00am

12.30pm

3.00pm

AHG Expo Diageo Cocktail competition – Pubs vs Clubs

Diageo Cocktail making masterclass

AHG Expo ends

REGISTER NOW

AHGEXPO.COM

REVIEW / 49

SHOWCASE/ TABCORP

BE WHERE

THE ACTION IS

WITH VENUE TRANSFORMATION IN THEIR SIGHTS, TABCORP EXPRESSES

HOW THEY ARE ONCE AGAIN VERY PROUD TO PRESENT THE AHG EXPO IN BRISBANE

AS THEIR MAJOR NAMING PARTNER.

Our three flagship brands – TAB, MAX, and SKY – represent the

cornerstones of wagering, racing vision, and gaming services in

Australian pubs and hotels.

Being proudly Australian owned, operated, and enjoyed, it is

fitting that we should once again be partnered with the AHG

Expo to host hundreds of Australia’s best innovators and

suppliers across the hospitality and gaming industries under the

one roof.

Our investment in the industry will be on full display at stand 85,

and we encourage you to stop by to have a chat with our team

about the latest enhancements. Each improvement we make

to a product or new development is aimed at bringing patrons

through your doors and providing long-term benefits for your

business. We’re in it for the long game.

This year, we’re continuing big-ticket promotions, including TAB

Takeover offers beamed out on course and into every TAB.We’re

also building great momentum with our TAB TIP‘EM product,

which provides a free platform for venues to manage their own

tipping comps across AFL, NRL, and selected racing events.

Keep an eye out for more public TAB TIP’EM competitions

as well.

We’ve continued our investments into how our retail spaces

look and feel with our next-gen TAB project, with the aim of

showcasing our omni-channel experience like never before.

Through the TAB app, we also launched My Offers, which

enables TAB account customers to access personalised daily

offers via the TAB app and apply them to the racing and sports

events they choose.

In Play, or live betting, is also a top priority, with plenty in the

pipeline to blend the retail and digital experience like never

before. This is about building a complete experience when it

comes to wagering and entertainment – not just a TAB terminal

in the corner with a TAB logo and wagering odds on a screen.

This is about working with our venue partners and delivering

an experience to their customers that they simply can’t get

anywhere else. TAB is the only company that can deliver a

complete cash betting, digital wagering, and live vision offering.

MAX continues to provide essential regulatory monitoring to

over 120,000 EGMs across the country, and we are working with

our partners – including Wymac, AAC Paging, and Qantum*

– to expand our portfolio of solutions in Queensland and the

Northern Territory.

Additionally, we will continue to leverage SKY in venues as a

unique proposition, with more and more integrated offers live on

air and insights from our SKY team delivered to our customers invenue

and via the TAB app.

If you’re keen to learn more or just have a chat, book some time

with our team. We’ll see you there.

*Please speak to your MAX business partner manager for more

information.

BEING PROUDLY AUSTRALIAN OWNED,

OPERATED, AND ENJOYED, IT IS FITTING THAT WE SHOULD

ONCE AGAIN BE PARTNERED WITH THE AHG EXPO TO HOST

HUNDREDS OF AUSTRALIA’S BEST INNOVATORS AND SUPPLIERS

ACROSS THE HOSPITALITY AND GAMING INDUSTRIES

UNDER THE ONE ROOF.

/ 50

REVIEW

Raise your

5

GAME!

Tabcorp are proud to present the 2025 Australasian Hospitality & Gaming Expo.

Explore every opportunity to elevate your venue offering and engage your

customers by having a chat with our team at Stand 85.

Stand 85 | 12 & 13 March 2025

Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre

Scan this QR code

to register today!

SHOWCASE/ ARISTOCRAT

BRINGING

GAMING TO LIFE

WITH A PLETHORA OF NEW GAMES AND FAMILIES TO COME THROUGHOUT

THIS YEAR, ARISTOCRAT’S QUEENSLAND MANAGER, NICK BAINBRIGGE, IS VERY EXCITED

TO PRESENT THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY WITH THE BARON.

Well folks, the 2025 AHG Expo is already upon us, and

this year we’ll have a bright new light at the show!

Our new cabinet is bringing gaming to light (as the

marketing team would like me to say). It has a totally

unique asymmetrical design, but you’ll have to see its

fantastic lighting to really understand how it will light up

your gaming.

It also has the most powerful gen 10 technology inside so

that it can present more exciting dynamic animations and

gameplay. Our studios are excited by the possibilities.

The sound has been redesigned from scratch, and so

the speakers are perfectly positioned to deliver the most

exciting experiences for players. Add in the 4K highdefinition

screens, and it’ll bring a buzz to any venue.

We’ve worked hard to implement as much of your

feedback as we could. There’s a dual bash button, thicker

glass on the button panel, and you’ll notice it’s easier to

service too.

“What about the games?” I hear you say – well, when

The Baron launches in Queensland in just a couple of

months, there will be three game families, with many

more coming this year. There are some classic brands,

plus some new faces on the scene too.

It’s all Australian-made content from multiple Aristocrat

game studios, building games from the ground up for

your players.

Launching first will be Cashman Link® and Lunar Cash,

with the player-favourite, More Chilli Link®, following

closely behind. Cashman® and More Chilli® now have the

latest player trends, such as Hold & Spin and Repeat Win

among other exciting features.

Alongside The Baron, we have a massive year planned

for you, including a new solution, MultiLink – the smarter

way to link your links. Exclusive to The Baron, MultiLink

enables every new link game family to have the option to

link the grand jackpots together under one link.

So, you can always have an attractive linked jackpot that

increments faster and goes off faster, which will give your

venue a competitive advantage. Plus, in time, you won’t

have to support so many different jackpots across your

floor. It’s an option you’ll now have with The Baron, and

we will be talking to you about it soon.

We’re bringing a bright light to gaming – come and see

The Baron at the AHG Expo or talk to your local business

development executive to find out more.

IT ALSO HAS THE MOST POWERFUL GEN

10 TECHNOLOGY INSIDE SO THAT IT

CAN PRESENT MORE EXCITING DYNAMIC

ANIMATIONS AND GAMEPLAY.

/ 52

REVIEW

, DELIVERING PLAYER-FAVOURITE HOLD ‘N’ SPIN MECHANICS WITH A NEW CENTRE REEL THAT FIRES UP GAMEPLAY OPPORTUNITIES.

SHOWCASE/ IGT

IGT IS

SET TO SIZZLE

IGT IS SET TO SIZZLE AT THIS YEAR’S AHG EXPO WITH THE OFFICIAL QUEENSLAND

RELEASE OF THE MUCH-ANTICIPATED FIRE DRAGON SERIES.

Delivering player-favourite Hold ‘N’ Spin mechanics with a new

centre reel that fires up gameplay opportunities, Fire Dragon®

offers an entertaining experience.

“We previewed Fire Dragon at AGE Expo last year and received

positive feedback and input from our customers,” said Matt

Wright, IGT’s director, product manager for APAC.

“In the months following the show, we’ve actively incorporated

these insights and are now set to launch a game series that has

evolved from ‘good’ to ‘great’ with further enhancements, both to

gameplay and overall product presentation.

“I’m extremely proud of the work our internal teams have done in

delivering such a high-quality product, and equally excited to be

able to showcase Fire Dragon to the Queensland market at the

AHG Expo.

“Additionally, IGT continues to push the boundaries and build

on its ‘global strength, local focus’ approach, offering a healthy

portfolio of games tailored to boost player entertainment and

drive venue revenues,” he said.

Other IGT games on show at the 2025 AHG Expo comprise

global performers, innovative features with a range of volatilities,

and new styles of gameplay, including:

Triple Ingot Jackpots

This locally tailored global series provides the chance to unlock

up to three independent windows during the Hold ‘N’ Spin

feature, each with an individual special prize opportunity.

Mystery of the Lamp®

Also tailored for the local market, this global performer offers a

dynamic player experience thanks to three Hold ‘N’ Spin feature

opportunities with the added bonus for these features to be

unlocked and combined for more chances to win.

Eternal Riches

This dynamic Link and SAP series, which has just been released

in Queensland, features popular Hold ‘N’ Spin mechanics with

the addition of a super symbol for more chances to win.

Another show highlight will be IGT’s ADVANTAGE CLUB®

system and its EZ product portfolio, which enables venues to be

more agile, competitive, and deliver a frictionless user experience

in the move towards digital and cashless.

This includes IGT’s EZ WINDOW (aka Service Window) – the

premium player engagement solution designed to provide

frictionless customer experience, efficiency, and performance

across your gaming room – and IGT’s EZ PAY DIGITAL, a

cashless solution based on proven global technology.

IGT is looking forward to firing up innovative game experiences

and systems solutions teamed with celebrated hospitality and

entertainment at the 2025 AHG Expo.

/ 54

REVIEW

SHOWCASE/ KONAMI

KONAMI

POWERS ON

OPERATIONS MANAGER OF SALES, MARKETING, AND SERVICE FOR ANZ AND APAC,

DAVID PUNTER, DISCUSSES THE LAUNCH OF KONAMI’S NEW GAME SERIES.

A year on from the 2024 AHG Expo, Konami has

continued to power on with more great games across

their range of Dimension cabinets – D27, D49, and the

ever-impressive 75C.

As one year concludes and another begins, I am

truly excited about the year ahead and our dedicated

product roadmap to support our customers through

this period, including innovative game design and

enhanced graphics and features created to power your

gaming floors.

Support, support, support

Bull Rush (and Bull Rush Blitz) has been one of the

most successful themes launched by Konami across

the domestic market. To end 2024, we launched the

first bull-based Bull Rush game, El Matador, with

resounding success.

At the AHG in 2025, we will demonstrate the third

multi-game in the series with top-performing games

Wild Outback, Lone Rider, and El Matador.

Further to this, we will support those loyal to

Golden Strike with the series first multi-game with

the titles Bees Knees, Over the Rainbow, and the

popular Viking Valhalla. K-pow! Pig will have the final

game in the series Moon Festival available to support

your floors as a SAP and link in Dimension 27, 49, and

75C cabinets.

Fortune favours the brave – Fortune Hearts beats

to its own drum

At the 2024 AGE, we launched the new series Fortune

Hearts with two new games – Emperor’s Choice and

Lunar Dragon – with a brand-new bonus feature that

has sticky Maxi/Major/Mini bonuses and multipliers.

Off the back of the outstanding performance of Fortune

Hearts since then, we will launch the third game –

GoGo! Gorilla – on both SAP and link with the muchdesired

higher link jackpot settings option of $50,250,

meeting operator requests. Game four, Fire Spell, will

charm you and further support with game five in the

mix to be released around the 2025 AGE.

Feel the power – Power Panther

This year’s AHG will see the culmination of many hours

of research, operator feedback, and creative overdrive

to launch Power Panther Link – the first launch of a

Konami link game before SAP versions in many years.

Be prepared to feel the power with the visually stunning

Power Panther feature being launched with three new

games – Aztec Thunder, Wild Kingdom, and Tiki Tiki –

that support this powerful theme.

More to come – Bull Rush Stampede

Key to future success is to continue the brand legacy

of Bull Rush with Bull Rush Stampede, which takes

the best attributes from Bull Rush and enhances them.

It’s sure to make a hit with the existing Bull Rush fans

out there.

I AM TRULY EXCITED ABOUT THE YEAR

AHEAD AND OUR DEDICATED PRODUCT ROADMAP TO

SUPPORT OUR CUSTOMERS THROUGH THIS PERIOD,

INCLUDING INNOVATIVE GAME DESIGN AND ENHANCED

GRAPHICS AND FEATURES CREATED TO POWER YOUR

GAMING FLOORS.

/ 56

REVIEW

SHOWCASE/ AINSWORTH

EMBARKING

ON A NEW ERA

AS AN ICON IN THE ASIA-PACIFIC (APAC) GAMING INDUSTRY FOR 30

YEARS, AINSWORTH GAME TECHNOLOGY (AGT) TALKS TO US ABOUT HOW

THRILLED THEY ARE TO EMBARK ON A NEW ERA IN 2025.

Building upon its rich legacy, AGT is set to unveil the nextgeneration

RAPTOR dual-screen cabinet with an exciting,

on-trend portfolio of games, signalling a bold new chapter in

its history.

Since its inception in 1995, AGT has been dedicated to quality

and creativity, cementing its reputation as a trusted partner in

the gaming industry. As Ainsworth steps into its fourth decade,

the company is introducing a fresh strategy aimed at enhancing

player engagement and operational success:

Advanced cabinet design

AGT is introducing its new RAPTOR cabinet to the APAC region.

Designed to deliver an unparalleled gaming experience, the

RAPTOR combines ergonomic comfort, striking aesthetics, and

exceptional audiovisual performance.

Highlighted by a distinctive cylindrical display for player tracking

and an above-monitor cylindrical speaker for immersive sound,

the cabinet features market-leading triple 32-inch monitors,

complemented by an 18.5-inch touchscreen button deck

equipped with twin bash buttons.

THIS INNOVATIVE DESIGN

ENHANCES PLAYER ENGAGEMENT

WHILE MEETING OPERATORS’

REQUIREMENTS FOR DURABILITY

AND OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY.

The RAPTOR cabinet also includes an eye-catching LED

lighting package and premium surround sound for a truly

captivating gaming experience.

Innovative game portfolio

AGT’s game development approach for 2025 focuses on

simplicity and trending mechanisms – including Cash on Reels,

Hold N’ Spin, and Credit Collection – aimed at capturing market

interest and aligning with player preferences.

The product offerings are further diversified by emphasising

Stand-Alone Progressive (SAP) products to reduce reliance

on single-game brands, enhancing portfolio resilience. The

RAPTOR debuts alongside an impressive lineup of five new

game families, led by Year of the Snake, Eagle Riches, and

Nugget Hunter, with Dragons Treasure and Fortune Bull

launching soon after.

Strategic leadership renewal

AGT has restructured its Australian sales and studio management

team as part of a strategic initiative to drive innovation, enhance

operational efficiency, and build stronger partnerships within the

gaming industry.

The company’s renewed focus emphasises collaboration with

operators to deliver market-driven solutions that enhance player

satisfaction and optimise revenue streams.

AGT’s president of the APAC region, Troy Primmer, said they have

long been considered a reliable and trusted partner.

“As we embark on this exciting new era, our game development

approach focuses on trending mechanisms. We are committed to

designing games players want to play and showcasing them in

the striking RAPTOR cabinet,” he said.

With the forthcoming launch of the RAPTOR, its innovative

game portfolio, and strategic leadership vision, AGT is poised

to make a significant impact in the APAC region in 2025.

This progression underscores the company’s unwavering

commitment to delivering exceptional gaming experiences and

driving mutual success with its partners.

/ 58

REVIEW

Ainsworth is embarking on A New Era in 2025!

Visit us at the AHG Expo or contact your local Sales Executive for your

exclusive viewing.

SHOWCASE/ AGE

TRANSFORMING

OPPORTUNITIES

TAKING PLACE FROM 12 TO 14 AUGUST AT ICC SYDNEY, THE 2025 AUSTRALASIAN GAMING

EXPO (AGE) WILL OFFER INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY TO EXPLORE THE

LATEST INNOVATIONS, GAIN VALUABLE INSIGHTS, AND FORGE MEANINGFUL CONNECTIONS.

Stay ahead of the curve at the 2025 AGE

As the hospitality and gaming industries evolve, staying

informed and connected is essential for success. For over

35 years, the AGE has been the premier event for gaming

and hospitality professionals across Australia and beyond.

Known for its dynamic mix of cutting-edge technology,

expert-led education sessions, and unparalleled

networking opportunities, the AGE is a must-attend expo

for everyone looking to stay at the forefront of this everchanging

industry.

Explore groundbreaking innovations

In 2025, the AGE will feature hundreds of exhibitors

showcasing the latest products and services to enhance

operations and customer experiences.

From state-of-the-art point-of-sale systems to advanced

gaming machines, sustainable venue solutions, and

innovative kitchen equipment, attendees can experience

firsthand the tools shaping the future of gaming and

hospitality.

Expand your knowledge

Beyond the exhibition floor, AGE 2025 boasts a

comprehensive education program tailored to the needs

of industry leaders. Expert-led seminars will address

critical topics, including regulatory updates, digital

transformation, and strategies for improving customer

engagement. These sessions provide actionable

insights to help attendees navigate challenges and seize

opportunities in a competitive landscape.

Connect with the industry’s best

As sustainability becomes increasingly important in

gaming and hospitality, the 2025 AGE highlights ecofriendly

solutions and practices to help businesses

reduce their environmental impact. From energyefficient

equipment to sustainable design concepts,

attendees will discover innovative ways to future-proof

their operations.

Why attend AGE 2025?

AGE is more than just an exhibition – it’s an investment

in your business’s future. The event provides the tools,

insights, and connections needed to adapt and thrive in

an evolving industry.

Don’t miss this opportunity to take your business to new

heights. Find out more at www.austgamingexpo.com and

join your peers at ICC Sydney from 12 to 14 August 2025.

Transform your vision for your venue into reality at the

2025 AGE.

/ 60

REVIEW

PUB TALK/ PAUL ST JOHN-WOOD

KICK OFF TIME

FOOTY SEASON IS UPON US AGAIN! IT IS A TIME OF YEAR THAT ALL FOOTBALL FANS

LOVE, BUT WHAT ELSE DOES THE NEXT COUPLE OF MONTHS HAVE IN STORE FOR

QHA MEMBERS?

People, Pots & Profits Forum – Bundaberg

The QHA and CUB will be hosting the first People, Pots

and Profits Forum for 2025 in Bundaberg on Wednesday 19

March. Attendees will receive insights about reducing costs

and maximising profits from the QHA and CUB teams,

along with presenters from Cooking the Books, Bunnings

Trade, and DNS Specialist Services.

Details for the event have been sent to licensees from

around the region. Please contact the QHA if you are still

yet to register your attendance.

Gold Coast Region Hoteliers Lunch Meeting

Thank you to the hoteliers and QHA corporate partners

who attended the first Hoteliers Lunch Meeting of the year

at the Gold Coast on 25 February. These events continue to

be a great networking opportunity for attendees as well as

a substantial information-sharing platform for the industry.

The next Hoteliers Meeting will be held at the end of this

month in Rockhampton in conjunction with the Race Day,

then in the Burnett Region on Tuesday 13 May.

Footy tipping competitions

If you are one of the hundreds of venues around the state

hosting footy tipping competitions, please contact the QHA

if you have any questions or concerns in regard to your

prizes or promotions.

We also have corporate partners who can provide tipping

posters and draw cards for your venues. Their details can

be found in the directory pages of this publication.

QHA & TAB Rockhampton Race Day

The 2025 QHA & TAB Race Day is now only weeks away.

The event will be held at the Rockhampton Jockey Club,

Callaghan Park Racecourse Rockhampton, on Tuesday

25 March. Three free tickets are available per QHA hotel

member, and include all hospitality for the event.

The QHA & TAB Race Day is always a fantastic networking

event for industry participants. We anticipate over 200

attendees, so ensure you confirm your tickets early.

One-off extended hours permit – Easter

For any hoteliers looking to utilise a one-off extended

hours permit over the Easter long weekend (Saturday 19 to

Monday 21 April), this is a reminder that you must have your

application in to the OLGR by no later than Friday 28 March.

Thankfully, criteria restrictions for these applications have

eased and can be found on the OLGR website through

your client portal.

If you intend on featuring live or amplified music at your

event, you can also apply for a temporary removal of noise

conditions permit if applicable.

2025 QHA membership renewal reminder

In December and January, you would have received an invitation to renew your QHA membership for 2025. We

hope you have valued the services and assistance of the QHA. In 2025, we remain committed to promoting the

hotel and hospitality industry, representing the industry for outcomes that benefit all members, and assisting each

member to ensure a prosperous future for your business and for our industry at large.

Member renewal fees that have not been paid by the end of this month will result in access to services being

removed – including members only rebates. Please contact me directly if you have any questions regarding your

membership renewal.

/ 62

REVIEW

TRADE DIRECTORY

INSURANCE | RISK MANAGEMENT | CONSULTING

Your trusted advisor, helping you identify your business risks and

find the right insurance solutions so you can face your future with

confidence.

Phone: 1800 240 432

Website: AJG.com/au/qha

LEADING FACILITY MANAGEMENT SPECIALISTS IN QUEENSLAND

Providing complete

• commercial cleaning,

• refurbishments, renovations, and

• four to eight hour block maintenance services

to Queensland’s hospitality industry since 2005. ISO Certified,

QBCC licensed, and fully insured.

Mention this ad for 10% off the cleaning contract!

Phone: 1800 26 26 37 Email: helpdesk@cmbm.com.au

Website: cmbm.com.au

START YOUR

ELECTRIC JOURNEY

WITH WALDORF!

MARKET LEADING BRANDS IN EQUIPMENT

No matter the size, shape, or demands placed on your business,

Moffat have the ability to deliver equipment that is functional,

adaptable, and reliable – Turbofan, Waldorf, Waldorf Bold, Cobra,

Convotherm, FastFri, and Merrychef.

Phone: 1300 268 798 Email: info@moffat.com.au

Service Department: 1300 264 217

STODDART

Stoddart are one of Australia’s leading manufacturers and

importers of a large range of world leading equipment for food

service and bar applications.

Chris Leak

Phone: 0437 722 910 Email: cleak@stoddart.com.au

Website: stoddart.com.au

LEADING PUB AND HOTEL LAWYERS IN QUEENSLAND

Mullins’ hospitality team has unrivalled experience in the liquor

and gaming sector, developed over 40 years. From greenfield

applications and integrated developments to liquor and gaming

compliance and employment advice - they are your one-stop-shop

to ensure the best outcomes for your hotel.

Curt Schatz, Managing Partner Phone: 07 3224 0230

Email: cschatz@mullinslawyers.com.au

Website: mullinslawyers.com.au

ADVERTISING & PROMOTION

For more information on advertising and promoting your

business in the QHA REVIEW contact Nicky Spencer.

qhareview@qha.org.au or 0405 271 247

QHA

MEMBER

OFFER

CITY PROPERTY SERVICES

Over 25 years of commercial

cleaning services – triple certified,

quality assured, and using

environmentally friendly products.

Get two weeks free with any 12

month contract when mentioning

this advert.

Phone: 1300 630 636

Website: citypropertyservices.

com.au

TOUCH-IT

Increase revenue and enhance

your guest experience

• effortless bookings

• real-time local insights

• book taxis and airport transfers

• 100% multi-lingual interface

• earn from every booking

• no upfront cost

Get your kiosk today.

Phone: 0492 895 412

Website: touch-it.com.au/venue

REVIEW / 63

QHA PARTNERS & CORPORATE MEMBERS

QHA Partners and Corporate Members are valued preferred suppliers to the Queensland hotel industry. The businesses listed

in this directory are keen supporters of hotels in Queensland, and the QHA encourages member hotels to utilise their products

and services. If a business wishes to find out how to become a QHA Partner or Corporate Member, please call Damian Steele,

QHA Deputy Chief Executive, on (07) 3221 6999.

ACCOUNTING/ TAX

HLB Mann Judd - Chartered

Accountants

Ph: 07 3001 8800

hlb.com.au

Prosperity Advisers QLD

Ph: 07 3007 1971

prosperity.com.au

SW Accountants

& Advisors

Ph: 07 3085 0888

sw-au.com

Quantaco

Ph: 02 8346 6000

quantaco.co

Clarity Management

Ph: 3058 9732

claritymg.com.au

McGrathNicol

Ph: 07 3333 9800

mcgrathnicol.com

Trinitas Australia Pty Ltd

Ph: 1300 836 025

trinitas3.com.au

ARCHITECTS / REPAIRS

REFURBISHMENT/

RECONSTRUCTION /

CONSTRUCTION

Ashley Cooper Construction

Ph: 07 3142 5915

ashleycooper.com

BSPN Architecture

Ph: 07 3851 9100

bpsn.com.au

Caughley & Co

Ph: 0434 549 242

caughleyco.com.au

Rohrig Constructions

Ph: 07 3257 4411

rohrig.com.au

ROOM

(nee The Apartment Store)

Ph: 0411 211 065

room.design

Liife Architecture

Ph: 0401 384 547

archliife.com

BEVERAGES

Accolade Wines

Ph: 07 3252 7933

accolade-wines.com

Asahi Group

Carlton & United Breweries

Ph: 07 3666 4104

cub.com.au

Brown-Forman

Australia Pty Ltd

Ph: 07 3010 2000

brown-forman.com

Campari Australia Pty Ltd

Ph: 07 3253 1801

camparigroup.com.au

Coca-Cola Europacific

Partners

Ph: 13 26 53

ccamatil.com

Coopers Brewery

Ph: 07 3275 3732

coopers.com.au

Diageo

Ph: 07 3257 0800

diageo.com

Good Drinks Australia

Ph: 0447 346 111

gooddrinks.com.au

Lion

Ph: 07 3361 7400

lionco.com

Paramount Liquor

Ph: 0429 448 523

paramountliquor.com.au

Pernod-Ricard Australia

Ph: 07 3340 5471

pernod-ricard.com

Red Bull Australia

Ph: 02 9023 2892

redbull.com.au

Samuel Smith & Son

Ph: 07 3373 5777

samsmith.com

Southtrade International

Ph: 07 3085 7418

southtradeint.com.au

Suntory Oceania

Ph: 0427 561 519

suntoryoceania.com

Treasury Wine Estates

Ph: 03 9685 8000

treasurywineestates.com

Cork and Barrel

Ph: 0437 090 776

corkandbarrel.com.au

Flying Foam Pty Ltd

Ph: 0413 447 711

flyingfoam.com.au

4 Hearts Brewing

Ph: 07 3281 1004

4heartsbrewing.com

BUILDING SUPPLIES

& SERVICES

Bunnings

Ph: 07 3452 5725

bunnings.com.au

EDUCATION, TRAINING

& EMPLOYMENT

Best Security -

Security & Training

Ph: 07 3212 8460

bestsecurlty.net.au

Alliance Abroad

International Pty Ltd

Ph: 0450 232 460

allianceabroad.com

BTAQ Consulting

Ph: 0408 437 643

btaq.com.au

Find HQ

Ph: 0431 376 689

findachef.net.au

Frontier Leadership

Ph: 0423 097 246

frontierleadership.edu.au

Federation Academy

Ph: 0423 097 246

federationacademy.edu.au

Prime Effect

Ph: 0406 500 171

primeeffect.com.au

NoVacancy Hotel &

Accommodation

Industry Expo

Ph: 0447 456 085

novacancy.com.au

Owner Manager Program

Ph: 0437 834 195

ownermanager.com.au

Sero Institute

Ph: 1800 206 010

seroinstitute.edu.au

The Talent Playbook

Ph: 07 3822 9665

thetalentplaybook.com.au

TAFE Queensland

Ph: 1300 308 233

tafeqld.edu.au

ENERGY GAS/POWER

BOC Limited

Ph: 07 3212 4135

boc.com.au

TransTasman

Energy Group

Ph: 1300 118 834

tteg.com.au

Solar Connected

Ph: 0432 600 788

solarconnected.com.au

Spinifex Energy

Ph: 0419 108 638

spinifexenergy.com.au

FINANCES, BANKING,

INSURANCE &

INVESTMENTS

Commonwealth Bank of

Australia

Ph: 0476 824 307

commbank.com.au

Green Finance Group

Ph: 0457 883 700

greenfinancegroup.com.au

Gallagher Insurance Brokers

Ph Brisbane: 07 3367 5000

Ph North QLD: 07 4753 5311

Ph Toowoomba: 07 4639 7102

ajg.com.au

GSA Insurance Brokers

Ph: 0436 275 828

gsaib.com

Waratah Debt Capital

Ph: 0448 681 783

waratahmanagement.com.au

Westpac Banking Corporation

Ph: 0438 701 195

westpac.com.au

Banktech

Ph: 1800 080 910

banktech.com.au

BUPA - Health Insurance

Ph: 134 135

Quote ID: 2139463

bupa.com.au


Ph: 1300 836 025

trinitas3.com.au

Matrix Insurance Group

Ph: 08 6555 7742

matrixinsurance.com.au

FOOD & ASSOCIATED

BUSINESSES

Bidfood Australia Limited

Ph: 0434 939 134

bidfood.com.au

Cookers

Ph: 1300 88 22 99

cookers.com.au

McCain Food Service

Solutions

Ph: 0418 157 922

mccainfoodservice.com.au

PFD Food Services

Ph: 131 733

pfdfoods.com.au

Simon George and Sons

Ph: 07 3717 1400

simongeorge.com.au

CTB & Co

(Cooking the Books)

Ph: 1300 911 282

cookingthebooks.com

Food and Agribusiness

Network

Ph: 0419 651 157

foodagribusiness.org.au

Fussy Fruit Wholesale

Fruit and Veg Pty Ltd

Ph: 0416 940 930

fussyfruit.com.au

Goodman Fielder

Ph: 0403 937 801

gffoodservice.com.au

CFM Australia -

Swap & Go Oils

Ph: 0430 504 486

cfmaustralia.com.au

FURNITURE SUPPLY

SlumberCorp

Ph: 07 3892 7477

slumbercorp.com.au

GAMING AND RACING

Ainsworth Game

Technology Pty Ltd

Ph: 07 3209 6210

ainsworth.com.au

Aristocrat Leisure

Industries

Ph: 07 3727 1600

aristocrat.com.au

Everi

Ph: 0409 039 461

everi.com

IGT

Ph: 07 3890 5622

igt.com.au

Konami Australia

Ph: 02 9666 3111

konamiaustralia.com.au

Light & Wonder

Ph: 02 9773 0299

explore.lnw.com

MAX

Ph: 0418 728 927

max.com.au

Odyssey Gaming Services

Ph: 07 3087 3300

odysseygaming.com

Onyx Gaming

Ph: 03 8671 1900

pvsoz.com.au

Simtech

Ph: 07 5596 6993

simtechcreations.com

Keno

(The Lottery Corporation)

Ph: 07 3001 9300

thelotterycorporation.com

TAB

Ph: 0436 816 254

tab.com.au

HOSPITALITY

CONSULTANTS

DNS Specialist Services

Ph: 0433 906 809

dnsspecialistservices.

com.au

/ 64

REVIEW

QHA PLATINUM PARTNERS

Infinity Business Solution

Ph: 1300615832

infinitybusinesssolution.

com.au

AHS Hospitality

Ph: 07 5512 6143

ahshospitality.com.au

DWS Hospitality Specialists

Ph: 07 3878 9355

dws.net

Infinity Group

Ph: 1300 615 832

infinitybusinesssolution.com.au

Lighthouse Safety &

Compliance

Ph: 0422 669 631

lighthousesafety.com.au

Logic Hospitality

Ph: 07 5520 3957

logichospitality.com.au

Rooks Entertainment

Ph: 07 4068 8633

rooks-entertainment.com.au

HOTEL & BAR SUPPLIES

BOC Limited - Gas/

Reticulation Supply

Ph: 07 3212 4322

boc.com.au

Reward Hospitality

Ph: 07 3341 5929

rewardhospitality.com.au

Stoddart

Ph: 0437 722 910

stoddart.com.au

HOTEL BROKERS /

REAL ESTATE /

PROPERTY VALUERS

Off Market Hotels

Ph: 0408 192 490

offmarkethotels.com.au

QHA DIAMOND PARTNERS

QHA GOLD PARTNERS

Mondandia Consulting

Ph: 0448 710 629

monandiaconsulting.com.au

Morph Consulting Services

Ph: 0438 758 847

morph-consulting.com

Professional Hospitality

Ph: 07 3160 8132

professionalhospitality.com.au

Prostaff Events Pty Ltd

prostaffevents.com.au

Relief Hotel Management

Ph: 0419 733 681

reliefhotelmanagement.com

Power Jeffrey & Co -

Hotel Brokers

Ph: 07 3832 6000

powerjeffrey.com.au

Ras360 Property Solutions

Ph: 07 5593 0007

ras360.com.au

HTL Property

Ph: 02 9136 6373

htlproperty.com.au

Knight Frank Townsville/

Mackay

Ph: 07 4750 3000

knightfrank.com.au/contact/

Townsville

RevenYou

Ph: 0497 864 694

www.revenyou.com.au

Sculpture Hospitality

Queensland

Ph: 0427 532 925

sculpturehospitality.com

HOTEL ENTERTAINMENT

Optus Sport

Ph: 0478 061 267

sport.optus.com.au/venues

Sky Channel

Ph: 07 3228 6344

Freecall: 1800 251 710

skychannel.com.au

Stan Sport

Ph: 0416 208 417

stan.com.au/sport/venues

Nightlife - Music & Video

Freecall: 1800 679 748

nightlife.com.au

Pro Score - Sporting

Promotions

Ph: 0431 366 800

proscore.com.au

Urbis Valuations Pty Ltd

Ph: 0429 103 989

urbis.com.au

SGW Hotel Broker

Ph: 0417 508 452

sgwhotelbroker.com.au

LEGAL

Mullins

Ph: 07 3224 0222

mullinslawyers.com.au

HopgoodGanim Lawyers

Ph: 0419 762 469

hopgoodganim.com.au

LIQUOR

BUYING GROUPS

Bottlemart

Ph: 1300 733 504

bottlemart.com.au

Independent Liquor Group

Ph: 07 3713 2751

ilg.com.au

Liquor Legends

Ph: 07 3107 7422

liquorlegends.com.au

BSV

Cookers

DNS Specialist

Hospitality Services

Everi

Good Drinks Australia

Best Security

Beyond Payments

BOC Limited

BSPN Architecture

Caughley and Co

Coopers Brewery

Command 51

GC Cleaning Pty Ltd

Green Finance Group

GSA Insurance Brokers

HLB Mann Judd

QHA SILVER PARTNERS

H&L Australia

Next Payments

Odyssey Gaming

Services

Onyx Gaming

Optus Sport

QHA BRONZE PARTNERS

Impos Point of Sale

Infinity Group

Infinity Business Solution

Ozone Hospitality

Services

Paramount Liquor

Platypus Print Packaging

Power Jeffrey & Company

Quantaco

Ras360 Property

Solutions

Prosperity Advisers QLD

Simon George & Sons

STR, a CoStar Group

Company

Trans Tasman Energy

Group

Rohrig Constructions

Red Bull Australia

Simtech

Southtrade International

Stan Sport

SW Accountants &

Advisors

SwiftPOS

The Signal Group

Waratah Debt Capital

Wirely Pty Ltd

REVIEW / 65

QHA PARTNERS & CORPORATE MEMBERS

APPROVED

MANAGER’S

LICENCE

RESPONSIBLE MANAGEMENT OF

LICENSED VENUES TRAINING

“HONESTLY THE

BEST TRAINING

SESSION! FUN AND

LIGHT-HEARTED

WHILE BEING VERY

INFORMATIVE AND

KNOWLEDGEABLE.

THANKS, QHA.”

LIQUOR

WHOLESALE GROUPS

ALM (Australian Liquor

Marketers)

Ph Brisbane: 07 3489 3600

Ph Townsville: 07 4799 4022

Ph Cairns: 07 4041 6070

almliquor.com.au

Paramount Liquor

Ph: 0429 448 523

paramountliquor.com.au

4 Hearts Brewing Co

Ph: 0428 236 436

4heartsbrewing.com

MEDIA / MARKETING

Horse & Water Creative

Ph: 0401 345 201

horseandwater.com.au

POINT OF SALE/

PAYMENTS

CashZone

Ph: 0466 148 752

cashzoneatm.com.au

H&L Australia Pty Ltd

Ph: 0407 975 411

hlaustralia.com.au

Impos Point of Sale

Ph: 1300 308 615

impos.com.au

SwiftPOS

Ph: 1800 679 701

swiftpos.com.au

Next Payments

Ph: 0447 429 868

nextpayments.com.au

Banktech

Ph: 1800 080 910

banktech.com.au

Bella Group Services

Ph: 0488 555 013

bellagroupservices.com

CMBM Facility Services

Ph: 07 3391 1040 /

Ph: 0419 708 715

cmbm.com.au

Future Business Technology

Group

Ph: 1300 706 155

fgtgroup.com.au

Hikvision Australia Pty Ltd

Ph: 1300 976 305

hikvision.com

Lotus Commercial Pty Ltd

Ph: 1300 653 536

lotusfilters.com.au

Luxxe Outsourced Hotel

Services

Ph: 03 8761 9156

luxxe.com.au

Security Registers

Ph: 0452 363 166

securityregisters.com.au

Tru Security Services

Ph: 0452 377 662

trusecurity.com.au

SUPERANNUATION

Hostplus

Ph: 1300 467 875

hostplus.com.au

TECHNOLOGICAL

PRODUCTS & SERVICES

Beyond Payments

Ph: 1300 192 600

beyondpayments.com.au

BSV

Ph: 1300 244 727

bigscreenvideo.com.au

Jands

Ph: 0408 506 620

jands.com.au

JB Hi-Fi Commercial

Division

Ph: 07 3360 9925

jbhifi.com.au

OpenTable

Ph: 03 4240 3297

restaurant.opentable.com

onPlatinum ICT

Ph: 0402 281 561

onplatinum.com.au

Security Registers

Ph: 0452 363 166

securityregisters.com.au

Smart Parking Limited

Ph: 0421 155 972

smartparking.com

UrPay Technologies

Ph: 0411 457 377

urpay.com.au

Vix Vizion Pty Ltd

Ph: 0413 026 918

vixvizion.com

TRANSPORT

A.P. Eagers Limited

Ph: 07 3109 6731

apeagers.com.au


Ph: 1300 836 025

trinitas3.com.au

OTHER COURSES OFFERED:

• Online RSA/RSG Training

• Gaming Nominee Training

• Employment Relations Training

• Employment Relations Webinar

Responsible Management of Licensed Venues

Training is a mandatory training requirement

for those applying for a liquor licence, and

applicants for an Approved Manager’s Licence.

Training is offered face to face at regional

centres throughout Queensland.

Harris Data Systems

Ph: 07 5535 7677

harrisdata.com.au

UrPay

Ph: 1800 008 772

urpay.com.au

PRINTING / PACKAGING

Platypus Print Packaging

Ph 07 3352 0300

platys.com.au

SECURITY / CLEANING

STR,

a CoStar Group Company

Ph: 07 5628 2404

str.com/benchmarking

Tanda

Ph: 1300 859 117

tanda.co

Wirely Pty Ltd

Ph: 0420 302 805

wirely.com.au

Chewzie Table Ordering

Ph: 1300 243 994

chewzie.me

For more information please contact the

QHA Training Centre

P. 07 3221 6999

E. info@qha.org.au

W. qha.org.au

Best Security

Ph: 07 3212 8460

bestsecurity.net.au

Command51

Ph: 0437 368 352

command51.com.au

GC Cleaning Pty Ltd

Ph: 0412 700 067

gcclean.com.au

Ozone Hospitality Services

Ph: 1300 793 547

ozonehospitalityservices.

com.au

CTB & Co

(Cooking the Books)

Ph: 1300 911 282

cookingthebooks.com

Dashback

Ph: 0414 069 273

dashback.com.au

Harris Data Systems

Ph: 07 5535 7677

harrisdata.com.au

IDU Technologies Pty Ltd

Ph: 07 3035 5401

idu-identification.com

/ 66

REVIEW

FACE TOMORROW

WITH CONFIDENCE

As your trusted insurance broker and consultant, our purpose is

to help you move forward with confidence.

• By managing your risk.

• By helping you foster a healthy, thriving workforce.

• By bringing together global reach and local expertise.

• To help your business and your community through every

challenge you face.

We are proud and active partners of the Queensland Hotels

Association catering for all your business insurance needs

including property, liability, professional indemnity, cyber,

director and employment risks.

CONNECT WITH US

Get in touch with the dedicated

team at Gallagher to chat about

your insurance.

Justin Riseley

Authorised Representative

P: 0412 636 594

Tony Shaw AM

Senior Consultant

P: 0414 938 920

AJG.com/au/QHA

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co (Aus) Limited. AFSL 238812. Cover is subject to the Policy terms and conditions. You should

consider if the insurance is suitable for you and read the relevant PDS/Policy Wording and our FSG before making

your decision to acquire insurance. These are available on request or at AJG.com/au. REF3337

MEMBERS FIRST

MEMBERS FIRST

MEMBERS FIRST

MEMBERS FIRST

MEMBERS FIRST

MEMBERS FIRST

MEMBERS FIRST

Hostplus is a top-performing industry super fund run only to benefit our members.

A super fund that puts you first? That’s a plus.

Compare Hostplus

SuperRatings Accumulation Fund Crediting Rate Survey - SR50 Balanced (60-76) Index, December 2024. General advice only. Before deciding, consider the

relevant Hostplus PDS and TMD at hostplus.com.au and your objectives, financial situation and needs, which have not been accounted for. Past performance

isn’t a reliable indicator of future performance. Issued by Host-Plus Pty Limited ABN 79 008 634 704, AFSL 244392 as trustee for the Hostplus Superannuation

Fund ABN 68 657 495 890. HP3243

QHA Review - MARCH 2025

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