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QHA Review - Issue 68 - April 2025

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APRIL 2025

FEATURE

BEYOND A

DAYDREAM

THROUGH HOSPITALITY, WE CAN

PROTECT OUR ECOSYSTEMS AND

INSPIRE OTHERS TO DO THE SAME.

BITE SIZE

MOOLOOLABA FISHERIES

A CRAFTY BUNCH

BLACKFLAG BREWING

SHOWCASE

FOOD & INNOVATION


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EDITOR’S LETTER

BEYOND THE BAR

QHA Chief Executive Officer, Bernie Hogan, and QHA Executive Officer, Jessica Lowe,

at Les Clefs d’Or Australia’s 2025 Charity Gala.

As I write this month’s column,

the whole of Australia is waiting in

anticipation for the announcement

of when the next election for the

Australian Parliament will be held.

Already, as well reported, the AHA has

achieved some outstanding results

with a freeze on alcohol excise for two

years promised.

Importantly – regardless of who wins

the election – this should come to

pass, as all major parties have agreed

to this policy. Thank you to all of them

and the members that have worked to

make this happen.

However, now we have the

opportunity to consider what goes

on beyond our front bar. The general

business condition in the hotel and

tourism industry must always be

protected and improved. Issues

such as the lack of support for

hospitality apprenticeships like those

in construction or the need for skilled

immigration in our sector should be

front of mind when talking to our

national representatives.

Without skilled workers, regardless

of where they call home, the hotel

and tourism sector will suffer, and

Australia’s reputation will as well.

These are complex problems.

However, that is what governments

voluntarily sign up to do – figure out

the tough questions. We look forward

to working with whichever new

government is in power to get this

right for our members.

By the time you are reading this, the

other big announcement regarding

Olympic and Paralympic infrastructure

will have been announced. This

too is a wonderful opportunity

for the QHA and our members.

We are going to welcome the world

to our state in only seven years, so we

must work hard now to make the most

of this opportunity.

The QHA has already engaged with

the new Queensland Government to

cut regulation that is simply holding us

back from providing the world-class

experience that must go with these

world-class events.

The new Queensland Government

does not have time to waste. They

have settled in, and the industry needs

action to ensure we are properly

prepared for the games as well.

BERNIE HOGAN

QHA CHIEF EXECUTIVE/EDITOR

REVIEW / 3


BITE SIZE

A CRAFTY BUNCH

SHOWCASE

CONTRIBUTORS

FEATURE

OUR

COVER:

Daydream Island

Resort

SERVING HOSPITALITY SINCE 1885.

APRIL 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

10. BITE SIZE

18. FEATURE

DAYDREAM ISLAND RESORT

32. INSIGHTS

ALLIANCE ABROAD

40. TOP DROP

42. A CRAFTY BUNCH

BLACKFLAG BREWING

52. SHOWCASE

FOOD & INNOVATION

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


IN SERVICE, THROUGH FRIENDSHIP

WORLD-CLASS HOTELS START WITH WORLD-CLASS HOSPITALITY.

In March, the QHA had the pleasure of sponsoring and attending

Les Clefs d’Or Australia’s 2025 Charity Gala at our gorgeously

appointed member venue, Emporium Hotels South Bank.

The event brought together concierges and other industry

professionals from all over who embody the hospitality spirit

and play a crucial role in creating lasting impressions for

accommodation providers.

Also known as the Society of the Golden Keys, Les Clefs d’Or

Australia plays an important role in supporting concierge

professionals.

Aligning well with the QHA, their aim as an organisation is

to promote tourism throughout Australia and to provide a

network for their members in which they can exchange ideas,

provide mutual assistance, and foster the development of

future professionals.

On the night of the charity gala, the industry raised funds to

support the White Cloud Foundation – a Queensland-based notfor-profit

organisation founded in 2011.

Their mission is to provide practical support, easy access to

treatment, and early intervention programs for people with

developing depression and anxiety in its many forms.

In 2024, concierges welcomed 26 million domestic and 2.2

million international visitors to Australia, with Queensland hotels

hosting 27% of Australia’s 43 million international rooms.

Just as each and every member of the Les Clefs d’Or strives

to provide the utmost in caring, attentive service to their hotel

guests, so do the diverse array of member venues littered across

our great state.

The QHA could not be more proud to work alongside the

Society of the Golden Keys and sponsor this outstanding event.

It was certainly an unforgettable evening for a great cause.

IN 2024, CONCIERGES WELCOMED 26 MILLION DOMESTIC AND 2.2 MILLION

INTERNATIONAL VISITORS TO AUSTRALIA, WITH QUEENSLAND HOTELS

HOSTING 27% OF AUSTRALIA’S 43 MILLION INTERNATIONAL ROOMS.

/ 6

REVIEW


NEWS/ TOO GREAT TO WAIT

CLEAR SKIES

THE QUEENSLAND GOVERNMENT IS LAUNCHING A MAJOR MARKETING OFFENSIVE,

SPREADING THE WORD THE STATE IS OPEN AND WELCOMING VISITORS BACK AFTER

TWO MAJOR WEATHER EVENTS AROUND THE STATE THIS YEAR.

All three major Australian airlines – Qantas, Virgin

Australia, and Jetstar – will launch compelling airfare

deals to destinations right around the state, while

Tourism and Events Queensland’s ‘Too Great to Wait’

campaign ramps up the advertising of hundreds of

holiday deals.

The major marketing activity follows the devastation

of flooding in North Queensland and the impacts of

Tropical Cyclone Alfred on south east Queensland.

Environment and Tourism Minister, Andrew Powell,

said despite some devastating images being shared

across social media so far this year, Queensland’s

resilience was once again on display.

“Queensland is open and welcoming visitors, and this

campaign will make sure travellers know it.

“We’re letting everyone know that Queenslanders

are resilient – we’re open for business, and we’re

an incredible holiday destination. Don’t cancel your

upcoming visit, and if you’ve been dreaming of a

break, make it a Queensland break.

“With strong airline partnerships, targeted marketing,

and unbeatable holiday deals, we are making it easier

than ever for people to choose Queensland for their

next trip.

“Tourism is an industry that brings $95 million a day

into our economy – it’s a vital economic pillar and

this investment is key to reinvigorating the industry,”

he said.

Brisbane Economic Development Agency, Experience

Gold Coast, and Visit Sunshine Coast will also be

leading targeted destination marketing efforts to

drive demand, showcasing their regions as must-visit

destinations.

Chief executive officer at Visit Sunshine Coast, Matt

Stoeckel, said the support speaks volumes to visitors.

“The Queensland Government’s support is a huge

boost to showing that the Sunshine Coast is open

and ready for visitors.

“It will go a long way to encouraging visitors to

travel again following the cancellation of tens of

thousands of bookings as well as events as a result

of Alfred,” he said.

These campaigns are supported by the Queensland

Government and will highlight local venues,

attractions, events, and experiences that make each

region unique and reinforce that Queensland is open

and ready to welcome visitors.

Brisbane Lord Mayor, Adrian Schrinner, said he is

looking forward to attracting visitors to Queensland’s

capital city.

“Brisbane is Australia’s lifestyle capital, known for its

world-class venues, vibrant lifestyle precincts, and

blockbuster events,” he said.

It’s been a challenging start to 2025 for many

Queensland businesses, so it is hoped that these

campaigns will help the hospitality industry bounce

back sooner after Tropical Cyclone Alfred.

Chief executive officer at Experience Gold Coast,

John Warn, reinforced that tourism is vital for the

region’s economy.

“The Gold Coast has been hit hard, but we’re

confident it will rebound, as it has before.

“Visitors inject more than $7 billion annually into the

Gold Coast economy, so it’s important we protect and

support this industry and show the rest of the country

that we are back in business,” he said.

REVIEW / 7


NEWS/ KENO

IN WITH THE NEW

THE NEW KENO TERMINAL REPLACEMENT PROGRAM WILL HELP TRANSFORM THE GAME AT

QUEENSLAND HOTELS, PAVING THE WAY FOR A MORE EFFICIENT AND SEAMLESS EXPERIENCE.

Keno is set to elevate the gameplay experience at Queensland

hotels with the launch of a major terminal upgrade, marking the

next evolution of Keno’s offering.

The introduction of the new Wave-8 Keno terminals represents

more than just a tech update – it’s a complete refresh designed

to enhance operational efficiency and customer experience.

The new Wave-8 terminals offer faster processing and quicker

response times, which means customers can spend less time

waiting around and more time enjoying the Keno action. Improved

functionality will also deliver hassle-free ticket checking.

The terminals also offer a sleek look and feel to complement

hotels’ contemporary offerings, while their customer-facing

screens have future opportunities for digital advertising and

integration with Keno draws and Keno Display Screen content.

Keno’s general manager of licensed venue operations, Paul

Malek, explained that the terminal replacement program

aimed to improve the Keno experience for both hotel staff and

customers.

“With the Wave-8 Keno terminals, Queensland hotels will

be equipped with a future-proof solution that stays ahead of

technological trends, ensuring smooth, hassle-free operations

for both staff and patrons.

“Keno is committed to supporting the success of Queensland

hotels and ensuring their long-term sustainability.

“This terminal update is part of our ongoing effort to empower

hotels to adapt to industry changes and continue delivering

excellent experiences for customers.

“By enhancing processing efficiency and boosting customer

satisfaction, the new terminals will help Queensland hotels stay

at the forefront of the entertainment offering,” he said.

Given the broad reach of Keno within Queensland hotels, Paul

said an intricate deployment and installation schedule focused

on regional rollouts would support a seamless transition.

“The Terminal Replacement Program has been designed

to minimise disruption and will not impact current venue

agreements.

“Importantly, additional staff training will also not be required as

the software associated with the terminal is not changing.

“Hotels with a J6000 terminal will witness the most significant

change, as the new scanner is integrated into the printers as

opposed to the terminal unit itself,” he said.

The first installation sprint is scheduled for the first half of 2025,

with MAX Tech leading the deployment of new terminals across

various hotels. This sprint will cover multiple regions, with

subsequent sprints across 2025 and 2026.

To find out more information about the Keno terminal upgrades,

contact your Keno sales executive today.

“KENO IS COMMITTED TO SUPPORTING THE SUCCESS OF QUEENSLAND

HOTELS AND ENSURING THEIR LONG-TERM SUSTAINABILITY.”

/ 8

REVIEW


NEWS/ BEER EXCISE

ABOUT TIME

THE ALBANESE LABOR GOVERNMENT HAS JOINED ALL OTHER

POLITICAL PARTIES TO FINALLY AGREE TO FREEZE EXCISE.

After many years of advocating to all federal governments by the

AHA and QHA, the Albanese Labor Government has announced

they will freeze the indexation on the draught beer excise for two

years – a win for drinkers, brewers, and hospitality businesses.

This announcement followed support from all other political

parties in 2025, a show of support for the AHA and the pivotal role

our industry plays right across Australia.

Indexation is applied twice a year under arrangements that

have been in place for decades. While the February indexation

accounted for a small percentage of the cost of a pint, this change

will be significant for pubs and their patrons.

SERVING HOSPITALITY SINCE 1885.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said freezing the excise on

draught beer is a common-sense measure that is good for beer

drinkers, good for brewers, and good for pubs.

“My government is building Australia’s future, and to do that we

need to support our small and medium local businesses,” he said.

The government will freeze indexation on draught beer for two

years from the next indexation date of August 2025. This will take

pressure off the price of a beer poured in pubs, hotels, and other

venues – supporting businesses, regional tourism, and customers

across Australia. The government will also consult with the sector

on the implementation of this measure.

This announcement comes on top of new tax relief announced

last week for Australia’s distillers, brewers, and wine producers.

Currently, brewers and distillers get a full remission of any excise

paid up to $350,000 each year.

The Albanese Labor Government will increase the excise

remission cap to $400,000 for all eligible alcohol manufacturers,

and will also increase the Wine Equalisation Tax producer rebate

cap to $400,000 from July 1 2026.

“This is a modest change but will help take a little bit of the

pressure off beer drinkers, brewers, and bars,” Treasurer Jim

Chalmers said.

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.

TO FIND OUT MORE, CONTACT

NICKY SPENCER 0405 271 247

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

REVIEW / 9


THE BOUNTY

OF OUR SEA

DESPITE AUSTRALIA’S LONG COASTLINE, WHICH BORDERS SO

MANY RICH AND ABUNDANT WATERS, IT IS ESTIMATED THAT

MORE THAN 60% OF THE SEAFOOD EATEN HERE IS IMPORTED.

This is a far cry from a few decades ago – when a vast

majority of our country’s prawns, fish, oysters, and crabs were

locally caught – and is especially puzzling when you consider

that most of the beef, lamb, and chicken prepared in our

venues is farmed right here in Australia.

Fresh seafood is a vital component of any hotel or pub

menu – in fact, you could say it’s a large part of the authentic

Australian dining experience that tourists and locals have

come to know, love, and expect.

While the lack of domestically caught seafood in our

venues is no doubt a complicated issue (impacted by cost,

supply, demand, and legislation that’s designed to prevent

overfishing), it does solidify that local fisheries are more

valuable to the hospitality sector than ever before.

Once the largest tuna operator in the country, Mooloolaba

Fisheries sources directly from trawlers in the Sunshine

Coast, and could not be more equipped to supply raw, wildcaught

produce and expertly crafted seafood portions to

Queensland’s foodservice industry.

/ 10

REVIEW


BITE SIZE/ MOOLOOLABA FISHERIES

FRESH SEAFOOD IS A VITAL

COMPONENT OF ANY HOTEL OR PUB

MENU – IN FACT, YOU COULD SAY IT’S

A LARGE PART OF THE AUTHENTIC

AUSTRALIAN DINING EXPERIENCE

THAT TOURISTS AND LOCALS HAVE

COME TO KNOW, LOVE, AND EXPECT.

Purchased by Gary Heilmann in 2000, the familyowned

company operates from a wharf on the

Mooloolah River – the birthplace of the Mooloolaba

prawn.

With an unwavering commitment to sustainable

seafood and a rich history stretching all the way back

to the 1960s, Gary said they know a thing or two

about Australia’s fishing trade.

“A lot of Queensland fisheries have gotten smaller

and smaller over the years, which has plenty to do

with legislation and a lack of support from the government.

There’s a lot of time and money required in seafood

processing, wages, power bills, packaging, transport, and

storage – and the cost of all those things has just gone up

and up.

“It feels like manufacturing is being driven out of Australia.

This is devastating, because local, fresh produce is exactly

what consumers are looking for nowadays. We’re seeing the

fishing industry continue to shrink and decline, but despite

this, we’ve always tried to cater to everyone and keep the

price low for our wholesale and retail customers.

REVIEW / 11


“Sometimes seafood doesn’t sell because people don’t know

its name, but most of the time it’s an absolutely beautiful

piece of fish that’s worth half the price and is equally as

good. We’re all about educating people and keeping up

with fishing seasonality and consumer trends, which always

keeps us on our toes. We’re constantly trying to source new

species and see what sticks,” he said.

Mooloolaba Fisheries employs over 70 staff (many of whom

have been loyal to the business for over 20 years) and has

expanded over time into three venues on the Sunshine

Coast – Fisheries on the Spit in Mooloolaba, Point Cartwright

Seafood Market, and Noosa Junction Seafood Market.

Never afraid to experiment with their fresh, wild-caught

seafood, Mooloolaba Fisheries is at the forefront of

Queensland’s seafood industry, and specialises in stateof-the-art

processing methods, recipes, and preservation

techniques.

These innovations are led by general manager Paul Schenk,

who has spent more than 24 years travelling the world as

an executive chef, television star, and hotel manager. Gary

said if anyone knows the value of quality seafood in the

hospitality industry, it’s Paul.

“We always try to come up with products that venues might

like. If someone comes to us with an idea, we find a way to

sort it out, source it, and price it so that it works for everyone

– the fishermen, the wholesaler, and us.

“These days, a majority of chefs don’t have anyone prepping

for them. If they prefer to trim and fillet the fish themselves,

that’s fine, but if it’s going to tie up their time, we can also

give them a quality piece of frozen fish cut perfectly to any

size or portion. There’s no wastage, and thanks to our special

technology, no chef will be able to tell that it was ever frozen.

“Paul has a lot of respect in the foodservice community. It’s

great having someone on board with such a high level of skill

in this area that also understands what the industry wants.

Chefs are time-poor, so we want to offer them a quality

Australian product that’s convenient, stress-free, and readyto-use

– all they need to do is defrost,” he said.

Mooloolaba Fisheries was the first business in Australia to

offer individually packaged and portioned seafood. Not only

does the company weave value, integrity, and dedication

into everything they do, but their unmatched expertise and

passion means that every single piece of fish they provide is

top-of-the-line.

Gary said there are thousands of tonnes of fish caught on

the doorstep of Australia every year, so it’s disappointing that

most of it goes off in a container overseas just to end up in

a tin.

“To highlight the sensational quality of our seafood, we use

a unique piece of cutting-edge technology developed here

in Mooloolaba called ‘Fresh Tec’, which is a kind of modified

atmosphere packaging process that allows us to perfectly

preserve our fish. It’s had a lot of work put into it, and we

think it’s a game changer for an industry that struggles with

a lot of food waste.

“We’ve cut down on wastage ourselves by using our

trimmings and making them into the most delicious Thai fish

cakes around. We simply can’t keep up with demand – our

customers all over Australia love them. It’s a similar story for

our tuna Saku blocks, which are prized for their quality and

provenance, and are very competitively priced.

“Our albacore tuna products are also something we’re

incredibly proud of. The fish is nicknamed ‘the chicken of the

sea’, so we had the idea to make it into schnitzels and fish

goujons. It’s a fantastic twist on a classic and a great option

for pescatarians. We love to innovate and are constantly

working on new things like gluten-free crumbed products

and seafood bisques,” he said.

According to an impact statement conducted by the

Australian Government in 2023 about ‘country of origin

labelling for seafood in hospitality settings’, 60% of patrons

reported that the origin of their seafood was very important

to them, with 30% indicating that they would often or always

enquire about it.

It’s no surprise that more and more Australians are preferring

to back local businesses supplying fresh produce, which is a

trend that Mooloolaba Fisheries is seeing firsthand.

Gary said there are quite a few independent fishermen who

operate off their wharf in Mooloolaba, so they promote and

support them as much as they can.

/ 12

REVIEW


BITE SIZE/ MOOLOOLABA FISHERIES

“ONCE THE LARGEST TUNA OPERATOR IN THE

COUNTRY, MOOLOOLABA FISHERIES SOURCES DIRECTLY

FROM TRAWLERS IN THE SUNSHINE COAST, AND COULD

NOT BE MORE EQUIPPED TO SUPPLY RAW, WILD-CAUGHT

PRODUCE AND EXPERTLY CRAFTED SEAFOOD PORTIONS

TO QUEENSLAND’S FOODSERVICE INDUSTRY.”

REVIEW / 13


BITE SIZE/ MOOLOOLABA FISHERIES

“WE’VE CUT DOWN ON WASTAGE OURSELVES BY USING

OUR TRIMMINGS AND MAKING THEM INTO THE MOST DELICIOUS

THAI FISH CAKES AROUND. WE SIMPLY CAN’T KEEP

UP WITH DEMAND – OUR CUSTOMERS ALL OVER

AUSTRALIA LOVE THEM.

“We also purchase fish from trawlers and longliners working

out at Eden, Ulladulla, Darwin, and the Gold Coast, and

always make sure to treat their produce with care. If I’m

eating seafood, I want to know that it’s top quality and has

been handled correctly.

“We used to import seafood just like everyone else because

it was cheaper, but when we revamped the shop a few years

ago and started our premium Australian range, we realised

that everyone chose locally caught fish over the imported

stuff anyway, despite it being more expensive.

“After that, we dropped all of our imported produce and

focused exclusively on fresh, local, wild-caught seafood,” he

said.

Gary has been on the Tropical Tuna Management Advisory

Committee and Resource Assessment Group for over 20

years, and has been driven by his love of the sea and its

bounties since he was young.

He emphasised that investing in fresh Australian seafood

not only ensures that you receive a higher quality product,

but it also supports local fishermen and families that use

sustainable fishing methods.

“The fisheries here are the most extensively managed in

the world. We don’t catch and take everything in our waters

– there are restrictions on every species, and every fishing

boat is decked out with cameras and logging systems. We

know exactly where fish are caught from, how many of them

were caught, and what season they were caught in.

“I just hope that pubs, hotels, and the greater Queensland

hospitality industry are aware of all the outstanding fresh

seafood on their doorstep.

“Reach out – engage with local products more and tell local

stories, because then the dining experience becomes so

much more valuable for the customer.

“It’s a wonderful thing when you’re in a restaurant ordering

off the menu, and you can see where all of the ingredients

are from and even get told the story as they serve it to you.

“The only people left in the Australian fishing industry are

genuine operators that are working hard to meet all of the

regulations. They simply love what they do,” he said.

/ 14

REVIEW


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BITE

SIZE

EVERYTHING

FOOD

MOOLOOLABA FISHERIES

100% ALBACORE TUNA

FISHED IN MOOLOOLABA AND CAUGHT IN ABUNDANCE.

Alongside the classic Mooloolaba Prawn, Mooloolaba Fisheries

specialise in local, line-caught Albacore Tuna. Panko crumbed,

partially cooked, and individually quick frozen using a special

cutting-edge preservation technology, their goujons and

schnitzels are ideal for any menu and easy to serve.

Made up of a passionate team of fish mongers, cutters,

and chefs who love everything seafood,

Mooloolaba Fisheries is a family-owned

business operating three fresh,

wild-caught Aussie

seafood markets along

the Sunshine Coast.

They are innovators in

the Australian fishing

industry, and simply

love what they do.

GET IN TOUCH WITH MOOLOOLABA FISHERIES:

W

0466 629 199 paul@debrettseafood.com.au

fisheriesonthespit.com.au

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Packed with local red chillies, Maleny Cuisine’s Chilli Jam

is freshly made in commercial quantities in their HACCPcertified

Sunshine Coast facility every week. Offered in

bulk tubs up to 5kg, this versatile product is a firm favourite

in restaurants, cafés, and other venues across Queensland.

For nearly four decades, Maleny Cuisine’s popular Chilli

Jam has been used as an ingredient to elevate a range of

dishes or simply on its own as a sweet and spicy topping

or dipping sauce. With no added preservatives or artificial

flavours or colours, this vibrant and sticky jam also has the

added benefits of being gluten, dairy, and nut free as well

as vegan friendly.

This Chilli Jam is also available in 300g retail jars and is

part of Maleny Cuisine’s 45g Teenie range, which is perfect

for gift hampers and hotel welcome grazing boards.

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 george@brazenbrownies.com.au

brazenbrownies.com.au

GET IN TOUCH WITH MALENY CUISINE:

W

0478 117 883 marina@malenycuisine.com.au

malenycuisine.com.au

/ 16

REVIEW


ZEST ELEMENT

ZEST FOR LIFE

BORN FROM A PASSION FOR SUSTAINABILITY

AND REDUCING FOOD WASTE.

Supporting Aussie farmers and promoting mindful

consumption, Zest Element transforms surplus and imperfect

fruits into nutrient-rich dehydrated powders and slices that help

reduce labour costs, food storage, and food waste for venues.

Ideal for smoothies, seasoning, baking, garnishes, and beyond,

their products suit kitchen creations as well as front-of-house

displays, hotel mini-bars, and bar garnishes. Available in

versatile formats, they’re perfect for both retail and hospitality.

Supporting the food service and manufacturing industries

is at the heart of what Zest Element does. As the demand

for sustainable, high-quality ingredients in the Queensland

hospitality industry grows, they are a compelling choice that

aligns with the consumer values of provenance and ethical

consumption.

GET IN TOUCH WITH ZEST ELEMENT:

W

0448 331 094 zestelement.sales@gmail.com

zestelement.com.au

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

kenilworthdairies.com.au

marketing@kenilworthdairies.com.au

HUM HONEY

LET THE FUSION BEGIN

START WITH PURE HONEY, ADD ORGANIC AUSTRALIAN

GINGER, AND LET THE FLAVOURS INTENSIFY.

HUM HONEY’s Cold Fusion Organic Australian Ginger began

as a special request by one of their valued stockists who wanted

something different. After much trial and error, they perfected the

recipe and have been supplying the award-winning honey for

more than nine years.

For this product, HUM HONEY partnered with the Joyce family

from Little Bunya Farm, who supplied them with the best

Australian Certified Organic produce. After being collected, the

ginger is carefully processed to infuse without heat into the

brand’s specially selected honey batches.

HUM HONEY can supply their entire Cold Fusion range in

foodservice quantities – from 85g mini jars perfect for hampers to

a standard retail pack of 250g right through to 1kg, 10kg, or 20kg

honey pails with an easy-to-use dispensing gate.

GET IN TOUCH WITH HUM HONEY:

W

0419 769 947

humhoney.com.au

orders@humhoney.com.au

REVIEW / 17


/ 18

REVIEW


FEATURE/ DAYDREAM ISLAND RESORT

BEYOND A

DAYDREAM

THE MORE WE UNDERSTAND AND APPRECIATE OUR ECOSYSTEMS,

THE MORE WE WILL BE INCLINED TO PROTECT THEM.

REVIEW / 19


NEEDLESS TO SAY, THE

RESPONSIBILITIES OF

HOTELS NESTLED IN

THE RAINFORESTS,

BUSHLANDS, COASTS, AND

DESERTS OF OUR STATE

GO FAR BEYOND JUST

PROVIDING A LUXURIOUS

PLACE TO STAY.

/ 20

REVIEW


FEATURE/ DAYDREAM ISLAND RESORT

This belief is deeply rooted in our tourism industry here in

Queensland, where we operate among 1,300 marine and

national parks in one of the most naturally diverse places in

the world.

Needless to say, the responsibilities of hotels nestled in the

rainforests, bushlands, coasts, and deserts of our state go far

beyond just providing a luxurious place to stay.

Long gone are the days of hotel managers having a sole

focus on the inner workings of their venue. In modern times,

we are seeing accommodation providers do everything

in their power to make the most of Queensland's natural

wonders, all while preserving the picturesque surrounds they

call home, and probably owe a lot of their patronage to.

At the QHA, we recognise this shifting hospitality focus

through our Awards for Excellence category – Best

Environmental & Energy Efficiency Practise.

A strong commitment to environmental care is the top

priority for hoteliers like the general manager of Daydream

Island Resort, Marcus Taylor, whose passion and excitement

for his venue's surroundings is just palpable.

Primely located on a secluded island near the Great Barrier

Reef, the team behind the Daydream Island Resort could

not be more enthusiastic about their role in nurturing the

environment they work in.

As the only destination in the Whitsundays to be awarded

with certification from Eco Tourism Australia, the venue

certainly leads by example when it comes to its sustainability

and educational initiatives.

Marcus said they consider themselves to be the guardians of

this very special place in the world.

“Nowadays, the average person is well aware of the

influence they have on the environment. If we could all make

better decisions and choose a destination that actually has

a positive effect on the ecosystem, why wouldn’t we? It’s

our responsibility to do all we can to look after the earth for

future generations.

“We are acutely aware of our environmental impact,

especially locally. We consider who our trade partners

are and if they have a similar philosophy to us, how we

handle our waste, where our rainwater runs through and if

it will wash debris into the ocean, and how we sustainably

transport our goods.

“The push to reconnect with nature and our industry’s

shifting focus on experience, rather than excess, is real.

Guests want to interact with wildlife – they want to see a

turtle swim past them – so we aim to help them tick off these

bucket list moments while encouraging them to appreciate

the ecosystem at the same time,” he said.

REVIEW / 21


Cherished for its solitude, but just a short ferry ride from the

mainland, Daydream Island Resort is the kind of destination

that is super accessible for a lot of us Queenslanders, yet

feels like a world away.

As you would expect from an island paradise, each of the

venue’s 240 rooms and suites are beautifully appointed and

offer incredible views overlooking lush, tropical gardens or

impossibly blue waters.

Following the unfortunate and devastating impact that

Cyclone Debbie had on the area in 2017, the resort

underwent a $100 million refurbishment, which saw all 41 of

its acres revitalised with comfortable, modern spaces that

complement the island’s picturesque surroundings.

Marcus said the venue has a long and rich history in the

Whitsundays, which is probably why it has emotional

connections to so many.

“Generations of international visitors and Australians have

celebrated milestones or just come to relax here. The island

first welcomed guests in 1933 before the original resort –

which is now staff accommodation – was built in the 1960s.

The second and current resort was developed in the 1980s.

“We have a wonderful island experience here. Intimate, easily

accessible, and suitable for everyone – guests have access

to everything that this beautiful region has to offer and can

be active, do nothing, or be satisfied with something in

between. Our destination offers a real opportunity for people

to unwind and escape from the hustle and bustle – no buses

or cars, just peace and quiet.

“While the island can be walked in just a few minutes, there’s

still so much to do, including all of the water-based activities

you can imagine. Guests can hire a yacht, skydive, cruise on

a 60ft luxury boat, jet ski, snorkel, take a helicopter ride, sail,

and even go on a see-through kayak tour. There are simply

so many choices,” he said.

As its name suggests, Daydream Island Resort is quite a

dreamy place, boasting three restaurants, three bars, and

/ 22

REVIEW


FEATURE/ DAYDREAM ISLAND RESORT

an additional dining experience overlooking

Lovers Cove, which is famous for its crazy

good snorkelling and technicolour sunsets.

But what sets the venue well and truly apart

is the Living Reef. Run by a dedicated team

of marine biologists, the man-made lagoon is

a replica of the surrounding coral ecosystem

that wraps 200 metres around the resort.

Teeming with over 100 species of local sea

creatures – from the smallest coral polyps to

the biggest reef sharks – Daydream Island

Resort clearly accommodates its diverse

array of marine life just as comfortably as it

does its guests.

A few of the Living Reef’s residents include

a giant shovelnose ray named Doug, a blue

spotted lagoon ray named Harrison, and Mod

– a goldspotted rockcod who spends most of

her time resting on the lagoon floor getting

pampered by bluestreak cleaner wrasse.

While it’s all a bit of fun, Marcus said

education and conservation are front of mind

at the Living Reef, where they aim to inspire

their guests to advocate for the protection of

Queensland’s underwater environments.

“The Living Reef also allows us to give people

of all abilities a guided snorkel experience

– which is something usually only reserved

for those who can endure a long boat ride.

There’s nothing like being amongst the coral

and having giant rays gently swim over your

legs and around you. Our Stingray Splash,

Ravenous Rays, and Reef Rangers activities

are something we are working to grow and

are very proud to offer.

REVIEW / 23


"OUR DESTINATION OFFERS A REAL OPPORTUNITY

FOR PEOPLE TO UNWIND AND ESCAPE FROM THE

HUSTLE AND BUSTLE – NO BUSES OR CARS,

JUST PEACE AND QUIET."

/ 24

REVIEW


FEATURE/ DAYDREAM ISLAND RESORT

AS ITS NAME SUGGESTS, DAYDREAM ISLAND RESORT IS QUITE A DREAMY

PLACE, BOASTING THREE RESTAURANTS, THREE BARS, AND AN ADDITIONAL

DINING EXPERIENCE OVERLOOKING LOVERS COVE, WHICH IS FAMOUS FOR

ITS CRAZY GOOD SNORKELLING AND TECHNICOLOUR SUNSETS.

“Even for experienced snorkellers, the Living Reef is a oneof-a-kind

experience due to the close interactions that are

guaranteed with the wildlife. For novices, we provide a slow

and easy introduction to the underwater world. Guests can

then graduate to the ocean if they wish, or alternatively

relax in the underground observatory. Here, they can have

a coffee or cocktail while observing thousands of sea

creatures interact with each other.

“Our Living Reef team are the local custodians of the area,

and are responsible for reporting, advising, and working

closely with environmental and government agencies. Our

coral propagation program is still underway in Lovers Cove,

and aims to restore the reef back to its former glory after

Cyclone Debbie caused some damage some years ago. It’s

a slow but steady process,” he said.

Since 2017, Daydream Island Resort has planted over 1,500

coral colonies at Lovers Cove, with more than 95% of the

restored coral fragments surviving.

In addition to their propagation program, the venue is also

an avid supporter of Master Reef Guides – ambassadors

to the Great Barrier Reef that share up-to-date scientific

information while communicating what people can do to

protect the World Heritage Area.

There are currently 146 Master Reef Guides. To become

one, an employee from a respective High Standard Tourism

Operator (in this case, Daydream Island Resort), must attend

and successfully complete an intensive training event.

A High Standard Tourism Operator is defined as a business

that meets best practice management standards and goes

above and beyond what is required by legislation as part of

their commitment to ecologically sustainable use.

Marcus also described various other bodies in the reef

protection, research, and stewardship sector that the resort

proudly collaborates with.

“We work with Boats 4 Corals. The project utilises the

facilities and resources of tourism operators to carry out

coral spawning collection and redistribution activities in the

area.

“Our Living Reef staff are also trained to carry out a number

of different surveys under the Eye on the Reef monitoring

and assessment program. This includes benthic surveys,

tourism monitoring, reef health and impact surveys, and the

collection and reporting of species data and sightings.

“We also have the Tourism Reef Protection Initiative which

utilises our photo point surveys, species counts, and

restoration activities to create a snapshot of the life within

Lover’s Cove and Daydream Island. The aim is that the staff

of the site – or in our case, island – become stewards for the

area and its conservation,” he said.

REVIEW / 25


FEATURE/ DAYDREAM ISLAND RESORT

“WE HAVE A WONDERFUL ISLAND

EXPERIENCE HERE. INTIMATE,

EASILY ACCESSIBLE, AND SUITABLE

FOR EVERYONE."

Of course, Daydream Island Resort’s care for its environment

also seeps into other aspects of its hospitality operations,

including its water and power consumption, waste processes,

and staff awareness training.

In addition to the continuous improvement of its staff facilities

and green initiatives, the resort is looking to better entertain

guests on rainy days by developing a new indoor zone on the

south side of the island, complete with golf simulators and

group activities like laser tag.

Marcus said the average traveller is very well versed on what

the competition is doing, so Queensland venues should go the

extra mile to innovate, inspire, and keep our state the diverse

and awe-inspiring holiday destination that it is.

“The amount of information at people’s fingertips means you

need to have your finger on the pulse to remain competitive

and held in a high regard. If you don’t look to introduce new

activities, sustainability initiatives, or food and beverage

offerings, you will be left behind.

“We review what we provide often. If it is not working, then we

will change it. The flexibility of being a standalone property

means we can modify things instantly, with no need to run it

past headquarters and seek approval. Our owners are very

supportive and give us the freedom to operate the resort with

passion and purpose.

“Value is a huge driver for business. People are seeing

increasing costs everywhere and will always be on the

lookout for good value. Great services and experiences that

educate and motivate our guests in a beautiful setting, all for a

reasonable price – that’s what we aim to provide,” he said.

Daydream Island Resort and its remarkable conservation

efforts truly highlight that Queensland’s primely

positioned venues have the capacity to be more than just

accommodation options. By taking steps to protect the

livelihood of our precious ecosystems, the hospitality industry

can truly inspire others to do the same.

/ 26

REVIEW



ATTORNEY-GENERAL/ THE HONORABLE DEB FRECKLINGTON MP

STAYING STRONG

MARCH WAS A BIG MONTH FOR QUEENSLAND – ESPECIALLY IN THE SOUTH EAST,

WHERE MANY FACED A NERVOUS WAIT AS CYCLONE ALFRED HEADED FOR THE COAST..

We only have to look at what our fellow

Queenslanders face each season up north to

see the impacts that high winds and torrential

rain can have on communities and local

businesses, including hotels.

From dealing with insurance to waiting for

the power to come back on and managing

the financial loss that can come with closures

– my thoughts are with members who have

been impacted by recent events.

Whether you’re in the south east or up north, I

would encourage you, if you haven’t already, to

see what support you may be able to access

through the government to help your recovery.

In addition to the financial grants and loans

delivered in conjunction with the Federal

Government, there’s also financial counselling

and mental health support for small

businesses.

Of course, we are urging all Queenslanders to

spend locally and get tills turning over again.

For more information on the support available,

visit qld.gov.au or call 13 QGOV (13 74 68).

As a business owner or operator, there is so

much you need to be prepared for in addition

to everyday challenges. To this point, I know

there are a number of matters the QHA is

advocating on behalf of members about with

the Crisafulli Government.

I recently met with your president – Richard

Deery, chief executive officer – Bernie Hogan,

senior vice-president – Matthew Coorey, and

deputy chief executive officer – Damian Steele,

to discuss these industry pressure points

and some of the suggested solutions. I look

forward to continuing to engage with the QHA

on these matters to assist our hotel industry

to thrive.

I also plan to hold a roundtable in the coming

months to allow me to hear more directly from

the industry. I will be sharing details about

this soon. This is just one example of how the

Crisafulli Government is committed to working

together with business to reduce red tape and

deliver a strong economy for Queensland.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE SUPPORT AVAILABLE,

VISIT QLD.GOV.AU OR CALL 13 QGOV (13 74 68).

/ 28

REVIEW


OLGR/ VICTORIA THOMSON

KEEPING OUR NIGHTLIFE PRECINCTS SAFE

IN 2024, THE OLGR IMPLEMENTED THE TARGETED VENUE VIOLENCE PROGRAM (TVVP), DESIGNED

TO IDENTIFY PARTICULAR VENUES WITH A HEIGHTENED RISK OF VIOLENCE AND FACILITATE

COLLABORATION BETWEEN THE LICENSEE AND THE REGULATOR TO REDUCE THOSE RISKS. .

Recently, the OLGR successfully engaged with a Gold Coast

venue, which was identified through TVVP criteria to be at

heightened risk. Early OLGR intervention saw the licensee

introduce initiatives to reduce the likelihood of further incidents

occurring at their venue, including:

• increasing the total number of security guards and having

Responsible Service of Alcohol marshals on site

• having more security guards on site at the end of the night

to assist with clearing the venue’s immediate vicinity

• issuing and enforcing patron bans where violent incidents

arose

• having security guards and venue hosts regularly monitor

queues to identify intoxicated and disorderly patrons

• increasing lighting at the front of the venue

• implementing new policies for evictions, including that

two security guards are present, and opposing patrons are

removed from different exits to avoid altercations on the

street

• employing a security manager to address concerns with

security companies at weekly meetings and facilitate

regular training

In addition, OLGR conducted a Venue Control Meeting with

the licensee, providing recommendations to improve several

controls and requirements that were not being met to a

satisfactory standard to prevent venue violence.

The licensee took action to improve safety and amenity at the

venue by:

• developing a house policy regarding security on the

premises that included procedures for the removal of

disorderly or intoxicated patrons

• displaying conditions of entry and other pertinent

information relating to venue safety at each entrance

• implementing venue safe practice messaging within the

premises to advise patrons of safety and security measures

that are in place at the venue, and ensuring staff were

adequately trained in these measures

With the structured support of the OLGR, and the development

and implementation of these active controls by the licensee,

reported incidents of venue violence dropped by an

extraordinary 60% in the first six months, and have resulted in

an even bigger 83% drop since the venue’s initial inclusion in the

program.

The venue’s commitment to work with the OLGR and their

recognition of the community and commercial benefits of a safe

venue and improved amenity are to be applauded.

Safe Night Precinct review update

In further news, the inaugural Safe Night Precinct (SNP) review

is well underway.

The Griffith University research team is gathering data from key

government agencies and has already had productive interviews

with key industry stakeholders, including the QHA, SNP boards,

and a broad range of patrons.

The review will consider whether the prescribed area of each

SNP continues to meet the objectives of the SNP framework to:

• minimise harm and the potential for harm from the abuse

and misuse of alcohol and drugs and associated violence

• minimise alcohol and drug-related disturbances or public

disorder

It will also recommend whether consideration of an SNP

declaration should be revoked.

To date the Griffith University team has conducted over 2,330

patron surveys throughout Queensland SNPs, which gives some

understanding of the breadth of data being considered.

The Griffith University team will compile a comprehensive report

on the review findings and provide this to the government in late

2025.

I look forward to providing updates to you as they become

available and, more importantly, the recommendations and the

outcomes of the review following government consideration.

REVIEW / 29


SUPERANNUATION

DESIGNED TO SUIT EVERY

KIND OF MEMBER

THE SOONER AUSTRALIANS START ENGAGING WITH THEIR SUPER,

THE BETTER THEIR RETIREMENT OUTCOMES COULD BE.

As one of Australia’s largest super funds, Hostplus’ role is to

help improve members’ financial wellbeing for retirement. It’s a

role the super fund takes seriously. That’s why Hostplus offers a

range of superannuation products and services designed to suit

its members’ needs.

The improved Hostplus mobile app

For young staff that are just starting out in the workforce,

retirement will understandably feel a long way off. But the earlier

they start to pay attention to their super, the better their balance

could be in the future. Simple check-ins could make a real

difference to their retirement savings.

Hostplus updated its app to help members access account

information simply and easily. With the Hostplus app, members

can view their balance, insurance, and investment options,

check their investment returns, and review recent transactions

with a few easy taps.

Members can also receive notifications each time a new

contribution hits their account. This is a great way to help them

engage with and track their super in real time.

The Hostplus app is also now available to pension members.

Download the app today on the App Store or Google Play, or

find out more at hostplus.com.au/app.

Super training made simple through our Employer

Education Hub

Hostplus’ Employer Education Hub is an online resource of

toolkits that participating employers can use. Each toolkit

includes resources such as posters, videos, and digital images

that reinforce simple, action-oriented messages about super.

It’s available to be distributed to employees who are Hostplus

members.

The super toolkits are designed to help members better

understand certain aspects of their super. New topics are added

to the hub regularly.

Access the Employer Education Hub online, or, if you’re a

Hostplus employer partner, you can also find a link to the toolkits

in our latest newsletter.

These are just some of the tools Hostplus offers to help

members get the most out of their super, no matter their age or

situation. For more, visit hostplus.com.au.

Disclaimers: This information is general advice only and does not take

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

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

of your circumstances before acting on it. Please read the relevant

Hostplus Product Disclosure Statement (PDS), available at hostplus.

com.au before making a decision about Hostplus. For a description

of the target market, please read the Target Market Determination

(TMD), available at hostplus.com.au. Past performance is not a reliable

indicator of future performance and should never be the sole factor

considered when selecting a superannuation fund. Issued by Host-

Plus Pty Limited ABN 79 008 634 704, AFSL 244392 as trustee for

the Hostplus Superannuation Fund (the Fund) ABN 68 657 495 890,

MySuper No 68 657 495 890 198.

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

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

Inc. registered in the U.S. and other countries. Google Play and the

Google Play logo are trademarks of Google LLC.

/ 30

REVIEW


LEGAL MATTERS/ CURT SCHATZ

HIGH STAKES AND HIGHER FINES

IN QUEENSLAND, LICENCED VENUES PLAY A CRUCIAL ROLE IN THE RESPONSIBLE

SERVICE OF ALCOHOL (RSA) AND THE RESPONSIBLE SERVICE OF GAMBLING (RSG).

These obligations are designed to promote public safety and

harm minimisation and a failure to adhere to them can result in

significant financial and operational penalties or even the loss of

a licenced venue’s liquor or gaming licence.

Responsible service of alcohol

A licenced venue that serves alcohol must comply with the

Liquor Act 1992 and Liquor Regulation 2002. As part of this,

licenced venues must (and this list is not exhaustive):

• provide water for free or at a reasonable cost to patrons

• display all appropriate signage

• ensure that minors are not served alcohol, and that all

identification checking is enforced and compliant

• not provide any intoxicated or disorderly patrons with

alcohol or allow them to consume alcohol such as by

refusing service and, if necessary, requesting they leave

the premises

• maintain a safe environment and not engage in

irresponsible service practices or service such as

encouraging rapid or excessive consumption of liquor

• ensure the licensee (if an individual) or an approved

manager holds a current responsible management of

licenced venues qualification

• ensure all staff involved in the service or supply of alcohol

hold a statement of attainment from the nationally

accredited ‘Provide Responsible Service of Alcohol’ course

– it is particularly important that a licensee checks that any

statements of attainment are:

o from an accredited course

o not an interstate qualification (unless nationally

accredited)

o valid

o not dated before 2002

o specifically, not a ‘statement of attendance’

• comply with all licence conditions such as trading hours,

alcohol promotion, and serving methods for drinks (for

example, no regular glass)

Responsible service of gambling

A licenced venue that provides gaming must comply with the

Gaming Machine Act 1991 and the Gaming Machine Regulation

2002. As part of this, licenced venues must ensure (and this list

is not exhaustive):

• all staff who carry out gaming duties or gaming tasks hold

a statement of attainment from the nationally accredited

‘Provide Responsible Gambling Services’ course – it is

particularly important that a licensee checks whether its

staff are relying on an OLGR-issued RSG certification as

these have an expiry date

• responsible gambling signage is displayed

• minors do not participate in any gaming activities and

enforce identification checking that is compliant

• compliance with gambling advertising requirements

including not having gambling dominating external

signage, marketing, or promotional activities

• reasonable steps are taken to identify and support

individuals who are experiencing or are at risk of

experiencing harm from gambling, including providing

self-exclusion options and referring individuals to

gambling help services and utilising self-exclusion orders

(circumstance dependent)

Penalties

A failure by a licenced venue to meet RSA and RSG obligations

can result in:

• substantial fines and penalties being imposed on the

licensee, approved manager, staff members and/or the

patron

• an increase on annual licence fees as a result of

compliance history issues, infringement notices, and

prosecutions

• mandatory or discretionary suspension or cancellation of a

liquor licence or gaming licence depending on the nature

of the offences.

Recommendations

It is strongly recommended that licenced venues maintain a

culture of compliance using regular RSA and RSG training

for staff, implementing clear policies for managing patrons,

maintaining up-to-date signage and promotional material,

encouraging patrons to drink and gamble responsibly, and

engaging with local support services for individuals in need.

If your hotel is reviewing its policies or procedures to ensure

compliance with responsible service obligations, or planning

to update them, we recommend you engage experienced

professionals for trusted advice that is appropriate and tailored

to your circumstances, your organisation, and your needs.

REVIEW / 31


DREAM

COME TRUE

LINKING EXTRAORDINARY INDIVIDUALS TO

FORWARD-LOOKING EMPLOYERS ACROSS

AUSTRALIA, LEADING CAREER DEVELOPMENT

BUSINESSES LIKE ALLIANCE ABROAD FOSTER

RELATIONSHIPS THAT TRULY ENRICH LIVES.

To learn more about what is exactly involved in these

cultural exchange experiences, we sat down with one of the

chefs that has benefitted from Alliance Abroad’s seamless

international program, Wai Yan Kyaw. Today, he is continuing

to carve out a successful path for himself in Australia’s

hospitality industry.

Q First of all, tell us about yourself! How did you become

passionate about hospitality and the culinary arts?

A I come from a Chinese-Myanmar family and was raised

in Yangon, Myanmar. After finishing high school, I

attended a hospitality school, where I discovered my

passion for becoming a chef.

I have been on my culinary journey since the age of

17, and now, at 37, I have gained experience working in

various hospitality groups across the Middle East and

the Maldives as part of food production teams.

Q What encouraged you to pursue your career in

Australia?

A While working in the Maldives, one of my colleagues

moved to Australia and settled down with their family.

That inspired me to pursue my career in Australia as

well, where I could build a better future and enjoy a

high-quality life with my own family.

Q How did you get in contact with Alliance Abroad? What

was attractive about their programs and services?

A When I decided to work in Australia, I initially reached

out to a few agencies, but things didn’t work out. Then,

I came across Alliance Abroad through my LinkedIn

connections and decided to apply.

Alliance Abroad’s team was highly responsive,

communicating efficiently through WhatsApp and

email. They also have strong connections with reputable

employers looking for skilled professionals, which gave

me great opportunities.

Q

A

Q

A

Q

A

What was the overall process like and what was

involved?

I first contacted Alliance Abroad at the end of August in

2024. They reviewed my profile and experience through

an initial conversation. Soon after, they connected me

with Morris Group for an interview, and within a week, I

received a job offer.

The entire process took just three months, and by early

December 2024, I had arrived in Australia and started

my new job.

I understand this might have been a daunting

experience. How did Alliance Abroad make this

transition an easy and comfortable one for you?

I have over 10 years of experience in the culinary

industry, but I never attended culinary school or earned

a formal degree. Gathering documentation to prove my

work history was quite challenging.

However, Alliance Abroad’s professional team guided

me every step of the way and advised me on the

immigration process. Thanks to their support, I secured

a great job and the right visa.

Did you run into any difficulties along the way? If so,

how were these resolved?

One of the biggest challenges was gathering

employment records and tax documents.

/ 32

REVIEW


INSIGHTS/ ALLIANCE ABROAD

Q

A

Q

A

Q

A

Q

A

Some of my previous employers had changed

businesses, making it difficult to get in touch with

them.

Alliance Abroad helped me find alternative solutions,

such as obtaining endorsements from former

colleagues, which allowed me to successfully

complete my application.

Can you talk us through some of the valuable

experiences you’ve had so far in the Australian

hospitality industry?

Starting my career in Australia was exciting, but also

a bit overwhelming since everything was new to me.

Fortunately, with the support of my new employer,

team members, and Alliance Abroad, I had a smooth

transition.

I have now connected with other chefs and

hospitality professionals, expanded my network, and

adjusted to my new lifestyle.

Where are you working now? What do you love

about the job?

I’m currently part of the culinary team at Ardo Hotel

in Townsville. I really enjoy the diverse and inclusive

work culture here. It’s great to be in an environment

where different perspectives and backgrounds are

valued.

What advice would you give to those wanting to take

the same leap that you have? What about venues

that are considering hiring talented people from

overseas like yourself?

For chefs thinking about moving to Australia, I highly

recommend it! It’s a great opportunity to experience a

new culinary culture and grow professionally.

For employers, hiring international talent brings

fresh ideas and diverse influences to the workplace,

helping your business stand out in the market.

What are your plans and aspirations from here?

Right now, I’m focused on being a strong team player

in my workplace and incorporating my knowledge of

Asian cuisine into my work here in Australia.

Moving to Australia with Alliance Abroad’s support

has been one of the best decisions of my career. I

have big dreams for my future in the culinary industry

here, and I’m excited for what lies ahead!

For venues looking to diversify their workforce

and benefit from a highly motivated talent pool,

please reach out to Bianca Haviland at Alliance

Abroad at bhaviland@allianceabroad.com.au.

Y O U R

I N T E R N A T I O N A L

C U L I N A R Y T A L E N T

P A R T N E R

Skilled Commis

Chefs Ready to Hire

Need talented chefs for your restaurant?

We have Commis Chefs, as well as CDPs

and Sous Chefs ready to join your team!

Backed by Alliance Abroad’s expertise

& global network.

Contact Bianca today to discuss your

talent needs!

BHAVILAND@ALLIANCEABROAD.COM.AU


JUNIOR EMPLOYEES

AND LIQUOR SERVICE

WORKING WITH ALCOHOL IN THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY.

The service of alcohol has long been a fixture of the Australian

hospitality industry.

Whether it be meeting friends for an after-work beer, celebrating

the weekend with cocktails, or ordering a glass of wine with a

meal, pubs and hotels have provided patrons with their drop of

choice any day of the week.

The hospitality industry also characteristically features young

employees, and the combination of liquor service and junior

employees requires careful consideration.

Clause 13.5 of the Hospitality Industry (General) Award 2020

(‘HIGA’) requires that junior employees who are liquor service

employees must be paid at the adult rate of pay for their

classification. In order to correctly identify junior employees

who are entitled to the adult rate of pay, employers first need to

understand what constitutes liquor service under the HIGA.

In years gone by, the definition of liquor service within the HIGA

had proven to be somewhat ambiguous to apply in practice and

had created some confusion among employers.

While the HIGA does not provide an exhaustive list of examples

of liquor service, the Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO) has provided

more clarity on the issue.

Reviewing the existing HIGA definition alongside guidance from

the FWO can help provide employers with a more thorough

understanding of how to correctly identify liquor service by junior

employees.

What is a junior employee and a liquor service employee?

The HIGA contains definitions of a junior employee and a liquor

service employee at Clause 2.

“A junior employee means an employee who is less than 21

years of age and who is not undertaking a nationally recognised

traineeship or apprenticeship.”

Junior employees of any age are able, subject to the relevant

liquor licensing and child employment laws, to be employed in

the service of liquor.

Where juniors are employed as liquor service employees, they

must be paid the adult rate of pay for their classification.

“A liquor service employee means a person employed to sell

or dispense liquor in bars, bottle departments, or shops, and

includes a cellar employee.”

The definition of a liquor service employee specifies selling or

dispensing liquor as liquor service. The QHA’s position is that

‘selling and dispensing’ includes serving and supplying liquor to

patrons. This can be done in the bar, bottle shop, drive-through

bottle shop, or other places where liquor is sold.

Identifying liquor service

The FWO provides information online that addresses the practical

application of this definition in more detail. The FWO considers a

liquor service employee to be an employee who:

• sells alcohol to customers in a casino

• serves alcohol to a seated customer in a restaurant

• pours alcoholic drinks for service

• takes an order for alcohol from a customer

• delivers alcohol (poured by bar staff) to a customer

• hands an alcoholic beverage to a customer at the register

Any employee performing these duties must receive the adult

rate of pay.

In particular, employers may need to consider the duties their

wait staff and front-of-house staff undertake. Taking orders for

drinks, delivering drinks to customers, and handing a drink

to a customer fall within the definition of liquor service. Any

employees performing these duties are entitled to the adult rate

of pay.

/ 34

REVIEW


EMPLOYMENT RELATIONS/ SARAH SWAN

The concept of ‘selling’ alcohol to a customer could also require

further consideration. Where an employee is responsible for

operating a point of sale (POS) terminal where alcohol can

be purchased, they are responsible for processing the sale of

alcoholic beverages. Even if they do not serve, pour, or supply

alcohol to the customer themselves, they are still selling alcohol.

For example, a junior employee who is not involved with food and

beverage service operates the POS terminal for a dining area and

is responsible for processing all transactions for the dining area.

If alcohol was ordered by a table of guests, the employee would

be selling alcohol because they have facilitated the sale as part of

the bill. This employee would be entitled to the adult rate of pay.

What if the employee does not always serve alcohol?

The QHA’s position is that any junior employee who could be

expected to undertake liquor service activities in the course of

their shift is also considered a liquor service employee.

For example, a junior waiter who generally delivers food from

the kitchen to customers in the dining area may occasionally be

asked to deliver drinks from the bar as well. Even if this waiter

does not always deliver drinks, they are still a liquor service

employee because this is something they may be expected to do

as part of their general waiting duties.

This employee would be entitled to the adult rate of pay for every

shift, regardless of if they delivered any drinks during a particular

shift or not.

What is not liquor service?

The QHA has previously taken the position that an employee who

only ‘handles’ alcohol is not a liquor service employee.

Some examples of activities that do not constitute liquor

service include:

• clearing tables

• emptying or washing cocktail glasses, wine glasses, or other

glasses that have been used to serve alcoholic beverages

• cleaning the bar area

• restocking fridges in the bar area or mini-bars in hotel

accommodation

• storing, carrying, or transporting an alcohol delivery

from a supplier

• conducting an inventory check of alcohol in storage

• placing an alcohol order with a supplier on behalf of

the business

As a guide, if the duties the employee carries out could fit

with the definition of liquor service provided in Clause 2 of the

HIGA, or are similar to the examples provided by the FWO, the

employee is likely a liquor service employee.

For further assistance, members may also call the QHA’s

employment relations department.

Determining the correct rate of pay

In order to determine the correct rate of pay, employers must first

correctly classify the employee’s position according to Schedule

A of the HIGA.

Members are encouraged to contact the employment relations

department if they require assistance in accurately classifying

their employees and determining the correct rate of pay.

Need help?

For further information and assistance, the QHA’s

employment relations department can be contacted for a

confidential discussion by calling (07) 3221 6999 or emailing

er@qha.org.au.

REVIEW / 35


DESTINATION 2045:

QUEENSLAND’S TOURISM FUTURE

QUEENSLAND IS DEVELOPING A 20-YEAR TOURISM

PLAN TO BOOST QUEENSLAND’S VISITOR ECONOMY.

The QHA has had input and been involved with members in

various workshops around the state to ensure the plan reflects

the voices of our vibrant industry and leverages tourism growth

opportunities over the next two decades.

The key focus areas for the plan include investment attraction,

tourism experience development, ecotourism, our 2032 legacy,

access and connectivity, and event delivery.

It is important that tourism in Queensland is appropriately funded

and enhances our global appeal, unlocks our untapped lifestyle

and culture, and maximises the legacy opportunities of hosting

the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

It was pleasing to hear supportive messages from the Premier

and Tourism Minister, The Honourable David Crisafulli MP,

Premier and Minister for Veterans, who said tourism is one of

Queensland’s most important sectors.

“We are home to the world’s largest coral reef, the vast outback,

and the golden beaches of our eastern shore. Of our 64,000

tourism-related businesses in Queensland, more than half are

based in our region.

“I am committed to restoring Queensland’s reputation and

supercharging tourism in our state. Developing new tourism

products, promoting all that we have to offer, and focusing on the

future are keys to the continued growth and success of the sector.

“A strong tourism sector means a strong Queensland,” he said.

The Honourable Andrew Powell MP, Minister for the Environment

and Tourism and Minister for Science and Innovation, also

said tourism is the crown jewel of Queensland, celebrating the

diversity of our landscapes, the richness of our culture, and the

warmth of our communities.

“With the world’s attention turning towards us in anticipation

of the games and the delivery of iconic and significant events,

we have a unique chance to solidify our status as a global

destination of choice.

“The future of Queensland tourism promises a globally

recognised, sustainable industry that celebrates our natural

beauty and cultural heritage, fosters economic growth, and

delivers lasting benefits for local communities,” he said.

The QHA appreciates this consultative approach to develop

a visionary 20-year tourism plan for Queensland, which has

included a range of opportunities to gather insights on critical

themes, encourage feedback through surveys and submissions,

and bring the discussion to life at the consultation sessions.

QHA representatives and members have attended sessions in

Mt Isa, Cairns, Townsville, Gladstone, Brisbane, and the Gold

Coast. The work that the industry has done to date will also be

incorporated in the development of the plan.

The QHA was pleased to provide a submission outlining global

best practices to incentivise growth and investment in the tourism

accommodation sector, which could be adapted to support the

growth of Queensland’s industry.

As one of Australia’s premier tourist destinations, Queensland

has immense potential to attract further investment in

accommodation infrastructure. From our research and

discussions with members, the following are some of the more

effective strategies used internationally and across Australia to

incentivise investment in tourism accommodation.

The QHA has advocated for:

Tax incentives and concessions

Including reduced corporate tax rates, accelerated depreciation,

tax deferments, and the introduction of targeted tax deferral

incentives – such as reduced payroll tax or land tax exemptions –

for new tourism accommodation projects in priority areas.

Streamlined planning and approval processes

Queensland needs to develop a reputation for actively seeking

investment and streamlining planning processes. Ideally, we

need a dedicated tourism investment facilitation unit within the

/ 36

REVIEW


INDUSTRY ENGAGEMENT/ DAMIAN STEELE

CALENDAR

MAY

2025.

RMLV

government to streamline approvals and provide end-to-end

support for investors.

Public-private partnerships

These have been successfully used to develop tourism

infrastructure in many countries. To unlock various areas of

Queensland, it is often the accessibility infrastructure that is

holding back further investment.

This could take many forms, but may include major civil works

to provide all-year road access through piers or water access or

safe pedestrian walkways.

Reinvestment incentives

Direct financial support, such as introducing a grant program

to support the refurbishment of tourism accommodation,

particularly in regional and emerging destinations, can be a

powerful tool to attract investment.

Destination marketing and support

Queensland has a well-established brand and promotion

infrastructure. However, to achieve our goals for the next 20

years in Queensland tourism, there needs to be unwavering

support for the industry with regards to funding tourism

promotion.

The QHA has advocated for tourism to be recognised as one of

the drivers of the Queensland economy, in addition to enhanced

destination marketing efforts and consistent targeted global

investment roadshows to promote Queensland as a prime

location for tourism accommodation development.

The Destination: 2045 Queensland’s Tourism Future plan

presents Queensland with a unique opportunity to leverage

the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games to attract investment

in tourism accommodation that can set up the industry for

decades of success.

It is the opportunity to establish a development system that

encourages innovation and reinvestment that the QHA would

recommend to the Queensland Government.

RMLV

CLO/GNT

CLO

BOOK TRAINING NOW

REVIEW / 37


TRAINING/ THERESE KELLY

MASTERING CONFLICT

RESOLUTION IN HOSPITALITY

ESSENTIAL TRAINING FOR SUPERVISORS AND NEW STAFF

In our world of hospitality, as we know,

guest satisfaction is paramount. To be able

to navigate conflicts effectively can be the

difference between a flowing service and a

disruptive one.

While new staff are often trained in the

technical aspects of their roles, it’s equally

important to ensure they have the skills

to manage conflicts that may arise with

customers, teammates, or even vendors.

Supervisors and managers play a crucial

role in this training and can set the tone

for a happy, friendly work environment that

fosters communication and resolution.

Understanding the nature of conflict

Conflicts arise for a variety of reasons

in hospitality settings. These include

misunderstandings about service

expectations, differences in personality, or

external stressors affecting a customer’s

mood.

Managers should train their staff to

recognise that conflict is a natural part

of human interaction, especially in highpressure

environments like restaurants,

hotels, or event venues.

Encouraging a positive outlook on conflict

helps remove the stigma and allows

employees to approach situations with a

constructive mindset.

Essential skills for conflict resolution

To empower staff in handling conflicts

effectively, several key skills are required:

Active listening

Teaching staff the importance of listening

without interruption. Active listening

involves paying full attention to the

customer, acknowledging their feelings,

and responding thoughtfully. This helps

de-escalate the situation, as customers

often feel valued when they are heard.

Empathy

Encouraging new staff to put themselves

in the customers’ shoes can lead to more

compassionate interactions. Empathy

involves understanding and validating the

feelings of others, which can dramatically

reduce hostility and promote resolution.

Effective communication

Staff should be trained in how to articulate

their thoughts clearly and calmly. Using

‘I’ statements instead of ‘you’ can prevent

defensiveness. For example, saying,

“I understand you are frustrated with

your order,” rather than “You’re being

unreasonable,” shifts the focus from

blame to resolution.

Problem-solving

Managers should encourage their

team to think critically and creatively

about resolving conflicts. Training

should include brainstorming sessions,

role-playing scenarios, and providing

employees with tools to find common

ground with customers.

Dealing with aggressive customers

Aggressive customers can bring unique

challenges, and training staff to handle

these situations effectively is critical for

maintaining a positive environment. Here

are some strategies that should be taught:

Stay calm

Remind staff to maintain their composure

in the face of aggression. Breathing

techniques or a brief pause can help

control one’s emotional response.

Use a positive tone

The tone of voice is often more impactful

than the words themselves. Supervisors

should coach staff on speaking in a calm,

steady tone, which can help defuse anger

and encourage dialogue.

Maintain open body language

Body language can communicate just as

much as spoken words. Staff should be

trained to keep their posture open and

approachable, avoiding crossed arms or

defensive stances. Eye contact and nods

of acknowledgement reinforce a message

of engagement and understanding.

Implement the ‘20-second rule’

When confronted with aggression, staff

should be taught to give the customer

roughly 20 seconds to express their

frustrations before interjecting.

Allowing space can manage the

intensity of the moment and provide an

opportunity to gather thoughts for an

appropriate response.

Role of supervisors in training

Supervisors and managers can model

conflict resolution behaviours for

their staff. By demonstrating effective

communication and conflict management

in their interactions, they provide a live

instructional experience for new staff.

Incorporating shadowing opportunities

where new staff can observe seasoned

employees handle difficult situations can

be immensely beneficial.

In the fast-paced environment of

hospitality, training your staff in conflict

resolution not only enhances employee

confidence, but also significantly boosts

customer satisfaction. By providing

essential skills such as active listening,

empathy, effective communication, and

critical problem-solving, supervisors can

prepare their teams to face challenges

head-on.

In addition, equipping new staff with

strategies for managing aggressive

customer interactions ensures that every

conflict is seen as an opportunity for

improved service. Ultimately, a well-trained

staff can transform potential disruptions

into positive experiences, enhancing the

overall guest encounter.

If you would like information on what QHA

training can provide for your team, please

do not hesitate to contact us at 3221 6999

or email training@qha.org.au.

/ 38

REVIEW


When you play

together it always

feels like a win!

Gamble Responsibly. Think! About your choices. Help is close at hand.

Call Gambler’s Help, ACT Gambling Counselling and Support Service or

GambleAware 1800 858 858 gambleaware.nsw.gov.au or

www.gamblinghelponline.org.au

REVIEW / 39


WEST COAST

STYLE

HOPE BREWERY

2022 MASSIMO

MONTEPULCIANO

PRIMITIVO

LANGMEIL BAROSSA

GREEN APPLE

KIRIN HYOKETSU

XXXX GINGER

CASTLEMAINE BREWERY

For lovers of sour and bitter

West Coast IPAs, this is for

you. It’s like a tart glass of

grapefruit juice with added

bitterness. Enjoyable.

Another delicious juicy red

bursting with flavour from

Langmeil. A medium to fullbodied

wine, it celebrates

fresh and bright blue and red

fruits. The slightly savoury,

spicy finish only adds to the

complexity of this wine along

with the fine suede-like

tannins. Once again, a wow

moment from Langmeil.

Sensational. This exciting

new flavour in Kirin

Hyoketsu’s vodka soda

range is addictive, juicy,

and super sweet, but not

overwhelmingly so. Awash

with natural green apple

juice, I kept going back for

more to revitalise myself at

an event I attended recently.

This one bridges the gap

between those ginger beers

that are spicy and those

that are sweet. It has a foot

in both camps. As you sip,

this well-carbonated beer

delivers a spicy hit of ginger

followed by some sugary

sweetness. It is akin to an

extra zingy ginger ale, with

added ginger.

/ 40

REVIEW


TOP DROP

PALOMA SOUR

FELONS BREWING CO

TRILOGY IPA

MOFFAT BEACH BREWING CO

DIONYSUS OAT

CREAM DIPA

HELIOS BREWERY

BIGHEAD

NO CARB

LAGER

BURLEIGH BREWING CO.

Everything about this

refreshing summer sour

is just so moreish and

aesthetically pleasing, but

we expect nothing less

from Felons. Infused with

grapefruit, tequila, and a

dash of salt, this drop is

sunkissed pink with a ripe

citrus aroma. Tangy and

bitter in the very best way,

it’s a super innovative, fun,

and delicious remix of a

classic cocktail.

This is a hefty pine-forward

West Coast IPA with

supporting flavours of

orange, grapefruit, and a hint

of pineapple. It packs plenty

of punch and is hands down

in the country’s top five West

Coast style IPAs.

A super soft, pillowy

mouthfeel delivers flavours

of tangerine, lime, mango,

passionfruit, and gooseberry.

Every sip just makes you

go ‘wow’. It is absolute class

in a glass. Time and time

again I have expressed my

love for Helios brews, and

this just further cements my

devotion.

This beer picked up a Gold

at the 2025 World Beer

Championships. It’s a light,

crisp, refreshing lager and

perfect for those watching

their waistline given it has

zero carbs and just 88

calories per 330ml bottle.

If you like your lagers, this

is most certainly worthy

of a try. Best of all, it has

no preservatives, which is

always a plus as far as we’re

concerned.

REVIEW /41


OUTSIDE

THE LINES

KNOWN FOR PUSHING THE BOUNDARIES NOT ONLY WITH THEIR CREATIVE BEER STYLES, BUT

ALSO WITH THEIR OUTSPOKEN BRANDING STEEPED IN SICK AESTHETICS, BLACKFLAG BREWING

IS A FORCE TO BE RECKONED WITH IN QUEENSLAND’S CRAFT BEER INDUSTRY.

Made up of an eclectic mix of individuals with backgrounds in

engineering, street art, events, design, and venue management,

the crew over at Blackflag were united in 2019 by a love of

good beer, music, and punk culture.

Refreshingly authentic and unconventional, the brewery

reflects every aspect of these passions through a wild

kaleidoscope of flavours, events, and experiences… which

is probably why the brand leaves such a charming and

memorable impression.

CEO at Blackflag, Steve Barber, said their journey has been a

little bit different from most breweries.

“When we started, we really wanted to focus on building a

strong brand first and foremost, rather than the more traditional

path of creating a product and then trying to wrap a brand

around it.

"This meant our first beers were contract brewed. Basically, we

rented another brewery’s kit to brew and package our range.

"This allowed us to invest more time and money into creating

the Blackflag brand experience, with every aspect aimed to

put street art, good times, and a punk ethos front and centre. It

was also how we showed up at events that allowed us to stand

out – we even set up a half-pipe and skate demo at one of

Queensland’s biggest beer festivals!

“This approach earned us a legion of loyal fans and customers,

and also saw the business grow rapidly from our OG venue in

Mooloolaba.

"After just a couple of years, we were in a strong position to

custom-build our own production brewery and taproom in

Coolum,” he said.

Street art and illustration have always been the driving force

behind Blackflag. Led by co-founder and renowned local

artist, Ross Holloway, alongside the insanely talented Tammen

Willmott, art infuses everything the brewery does.

From skeletons in the surf to mermaids, tides, pirates, and a

snake sinking its fangs into an IPA, their illustrations give life to

the can designs, tap decals, apparel, posters, and epic mural

artwork littered across the brand’s two venues.

/ 42

REVIEW


A CRAFTY BUNCH/ BLACKFLAG BREWING

Steve said the boys are inspired by the things they love, from

punk and metal music to their coastal home and, of course,

good beer.

“Our home in Mooloolaba is like a little hidden oasis down a

side alley close to the beach. We pretty much built the entire

bar and venue ourselves, and in the process, discovered our

green fingers and a love for plants and gardening.

“Imagine swing set bench seats and pergola-style tables

covered in greenery leading into a street-art-filled venue with

a full bar, local musos playing, and people duking it out on the

pool table. It’s pretty special. Our brewery in Coolum is a much

larger venue, where all the brewing magic happens.

“It was custom built for us and is designed to make, pack, and

transport beer as efficiently as possible. We’ve got a balcony

taproom and beer garden where the locals love to sink a

schooner while shooting some hoops, having a game of pool,

or playing video games.

“The size of our Coolum Compound venue lends itself to

bigger events, where we’ve hosted some epic festivals

featuring local bands, alongside bigger-name acts like Bodyjar

and Redhook,” he said.

Complementing their impressive venues, branding, and events,

Blackflag has an outstanding brew team led by Simon Macek,

who takes the lead in keeping their core range high-quality

while also working on new product developments.

Using a wide variety of ingredients like fruit, spices, and evergrowing

range of hops, the brand enjoys experimenting with

different brewing methods to create new and interesting flavours.

While their beers are certainly unique, Simon said as much

as they like to experiment and push the boundaries, their

overarching goal is to provide something that is thoroughly

enjoyable.

“A lot of craft beers taste amazing but feel like a one-and-done,

as your palate gets fatigued from the intense flavours on offer.

At Blackflag, we have a focus on using high-quality and locally

sourced – where possible – ingredients. Our batch sizes are fairly

small, so this allows for more attention to detail and creativity.

“As a brewer and former chef, I am inspired a lot by food. I quite

often think, ‘How can I get the flavour of this food to translate into

a beverage? What beverage will pair well with this?’ I also have a

keen interest in the technical side of brewing and constantly look

for ways to innovate or improve processes.

“Craft beer offers the consumer unique flavours and ingredients

that aren’t found in mainstream, mass-consumption beer.

There’s a trend towards drinking less but of a higher quality and

for the unique flavours that are on offer rather than for simply

getting buzzed.

"Our Bones Vodka RTD range comes in four fun flavours and are

designed to complement the beers, but also appeal to non-beer

drinkers. They’re often the biggest sellers at the music festivals

we host and the beer festivals we attend,” he said.

A hop bomb of a beer that clocks in at 6% ABV and is packed

full of luscious tropical flavour and aroma, Rage Juicy Pale is

Blackflag’s biggest seller.

REVIEW / 43


A CRAFTY BUNCH/ BLACKFLAG BREWING

Every six to eight weeks, Blackflag also brings out a new

limited beer that explores a different beer style – from 2.8%

full-flavoured ales to red IPAs, fairy floss sours, and Mexican

lagers. Importantly, each of these creations builds upon

Blackflag’s signature aesthetic, with street art designs inspired

by names like Not Tonight Satan, Taste Of Chaos, Punk Rock

Girl, and Full Metal Jacket.

DESPITE THE HUGE SUCCESS OF

THEIR BEAUTIFULLY CHAOTIC

PORTFOLIO, STEVE SAID THERE’S

NO DENYING IT’S A TOUGH TIME

RIGHT NOW FOR EVERYONE IN

THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY, FROM

BREWERS TO BARS, PUBS, AND ALL

THE SUPPLIERS IN BETWEEN.

“What we’re seeing is a bit of that trademark Aussie resiliency

as breweries figure out creative ways to continue connecting

with customers at a time when the cost of living is so high.

With an election looming, we’ve also been part of a push for

change to the crippling beer excise.

“A recent video we posted on our socials gained incredible

traction with over 100,000 views and 800 shares, and was

picked up by all the major media networks. It’s high time

for reform to a system that is making the simple pleasure of

enjoying a beer in a pub with mates an unaffordable luxury.

“While the independent brewing sector accounts for only

about 10% of the overall beer market, we employ over half of

all people working in the industry. There are about 600 or so

locally owned craft breweries in Australia, who employ locals,

support local events and charities, and invest profits back into

Australia,” he said.

Living up to their loud, rebellious, punk aesthetic, Blackflag

was a major voice speaking out against the harsh indexation

of the beer excise tax, which has weighed heavily on

Australian breweries, pubs, hotels, and their patrons for years.

Their advocation for the livelihood of the hospitality industry

created waves across all kinds of media, with the outrage

of countless Aussies resulting in the Albanese Labor

Government announcing on 1 March that it would freeze the

tax for two years.

“Australia is renowned for tourism, hospitality, and food and

beverage scene, and a thriving local industry is absolutely key

to that. While times are tough for everyone at the moment, our

approach has always been to continue advocating, innovating,

and investing in our customers, venues, and events.

“We’ve got loads of awesome events, a few exciting collabs,

plus new beers and merch coming up on the calendar

throughout the year. The best way to keep up-to-date is to

subscribe to our email newsletter or hit us up on the socials.

“We pride ourselves on bringing likeminded people together,

building a community, and cultivating an appreciation of

exceptional craft beer and local live music. Blackflag is

collectively crafted and independently brewed, but the beer

really is just the beginning,” Steve said.

/ 44

REVIEW


A CRAFTY BUNCH/ BLACKFLAG BREWING

FULL METAL JACKET

BLACKFLAG BREWING’S NEWEST LIMITED RELEASE IS LOOKING TO BE A BOX OFFICE HIT.

Designed for maximum enjoyment, Blackflag’s modern

take on a classic West Coast IPA strips away the bells

and whistles to focus purely on delivering a massive

hop burst straight to the palate.

Expect a symphony of resinous pine, crisp citrus, and

herbal notes from the 6.8% ABV Full Metal Jacket,

which has a full-bodied mouthfeel and a cleansing

bitterness on the finish.

Brewed with Strata, Citra and Chinook hops, this is a

defined and refined brew for true beer drinkers.

Shot-up style – the gritty inspiration behind Full

Metal Jacket’s rustic design

The inspiration behind the artwork and can design was

based simply on Blackflag’s latest release being a fullflavoured,

no-holds-barred beer with a big hop impact.

Resident artist at Blackflag Brewing, Tammen Willmott,

came up with the goods for this unique design.

“I feel the name and design worked well to reflect the

beer’s no-frills and no-nonsense flavour explosion.

“We wanted this beer to tell a story of real grit,

nostalgia, and untamed spirit. The can’s weathered,

golden, and rustic appearance gives off a rugged

charm.

“The typography, which is worn and vintage, also

reinforces the idea of something long forgotten, but

now repurposed to hold something precious,” he said.

For more information on how venues can get their

hands on this limited special release, in addition to the

rest of the brewery’s creative range, feel free to reach

out to Blackflag at sales@blackflagbeer.com.au

“WE WANTED THIS BEER TO TELL A STORY OF REAL

GRIT, NOSTALGIA, AND UNTAMED SPIRIT. THE CAN’S

WEATHERED, GOLDEN, AND RUSTIC APPEARANCE

GIVES OFF A RUGGED CHARM.”

REVIEW / 45


A CRAFTY BUNCH/ FELONS BREWING CO

SUN

COINCIDING WITH THE LAUNCH OF MARGARITA

WEEK AT HOWARD SMITH WHARVES, FELONS

BREWING CO HAS LAUNCHED ITS NEW COCKTAIL-

INSPIRED BEER – PALOMA SOUR.

“THE RESULT IS A VIBRANT BALANCE

BETWEEN BEER AND COCKTAIL. IT HAS

A TART, SALTY GRAPEFRUIT FLAVOUR

AND THE AROMA OF SWEET CITRUS

WITH A SLIGHT NOSE OF TEQUILA,"

Each summer the artisans over at Felons release a

fruited sour ale that’s unconventional yet downright

refreshing.

This year’s drop continues the tradition and is

inspired by paloma – a citrus-centric cocktail most

commonly prepared by mixing tequila, lime juice, and

a grapefruit-flavoured soda.

Strutting in with all the bright and spritzy characters

of its cocktail counterpart, the Paloma Sour is

certainly in a league of its own.

Brand director at Felons, Dean Romeo, said

innovation is at the forefront of everything they do at

Felons, which is why they use their limited release

beers to explore flavours not often covered by

breweries.

“Insert the delicious Paloma drink. The juicy, citrus

character from 190 litres of grapefruit juice added

provides a lovely sweetness that works in tandem

with the tequila and natural acidity in the beer.

“Throw it in a glass, and you’ve got yourself a very

refreshing, sun-kissed-coloured refreshment. Beer

can be pretty fun like that,” he said.

Pouring a warm pink with a dreamy haze, Felons’

Paloma Sour is infused with fresh grapefruits,

teased with tequila, and finished with a dash of

salt. It’s a thirst-quenching taste that arrives at a

juicy yet savoury finish.

Head brewer at Felons, Lincoln Gibbs, said they

brewed this beer to be easy-going, fresh, and spritzy.

“The result is a vibrant balance between beer and

cocktail. It has a tart, salty grapefruit flavour and the

aroma of sweet citrus with a slight nose of tequila,” he

said.

Felons has achieved a remarkable reinvention of a

classic cocktail, which is no small feat. Summer may

have ended, but the days are still warm, and they’re

calling for refreshment.

With only a limited number of Paloma Sour cans made,

venues are encouraged to get their hands on this juicy

summer drop before it’s gone. The beer is pouring

at Felons venues in Brisbane and Sydney, as well as

select pubs, bars, and restaurants.

/ 46

REVIEW


A CRAFTY BUNCH/ COOPERS

DAYDREAMING

COOPERS HAS TEAMED UP WITH TOP AUSTRALIAN BAND OCEAN ALLEY TO

CREATE A LIMITED-EDITION BREW TO ROCK THE NATIONAL BEER CHARTS.

In a first for Australia’s largest independent brewery,

Coopers engaged with the artists during design and

development to create a brew with the beer-loving

musicians’ unmistakable influence.

Coopers Ocean Alley Ale is the result – a great-tasting

tropical pale ale that pours bright gold but retains

Coopers’ distinctive cloudy appearance.

Managing director at Coopers, Michael Shearer, said

they’ve worked closely with Ocean Alley over the

years.

“Great music and great beer go hand in hand, so we

got the guys involved with a new beer that appeals to

their love of refreshing tropical ale.

“The band collaborated with our brewers on flavour

profile and hop selection as well as helping to design

the packaging featuring a surfing coat of arms.

“After plenty of tastings, we’ve arrived at an easydrinking

beer that captures the true vibes of Ocean

Alley,” he said.

The citrus and tropical notes in Coopers Ocean Alley

Ale balance perfectly with subtle malty characters that

invite you to kick back and relax. With an ABV of 3.8%,

it is expected to be popular among those seeking a

sessionable-style beer perfect for social occasions.

Ocean Alley said Coopers kindly invited them to

partner with them in creating this one-of-a-kind ale.

“Not only are we honoured to be included amongst

their tasty range of brews, but also as part of Coopers’

long and rich history. We’re stoked to have now

worked with Coopers for many years.

“We love drinking their beer – and have been for a

very long time – so that says a lot. We appreciate

working with a fellow independent and Australianowned

team who have supported our music and many

charity efforts for all this time.

“Leading up to the release of Ocean Alley Ale, we got

a tour of Coopers’ massive brewery in Adelaide, taking

us through the process of creating our own drop. In

some ways it felt like the backstage of a music festival.

“All of the ingredients were lovingly and expertly

assembled behind closed doors or curtains, only to be

thrust onstage for the cheering crowds to devour and

enjoy. And hopefully cheer for more!” they said.

To launch the beer, Coopers is holding a party with

Ocean Alley on April 6 at The Royal in Bondi. With

DJs, door prizes, a chance to challenge the band in

an 8-ball pool comp, as well as plenty of ice-cold

Coopers Ocean Alley Ale to enjoy, The Royal will be

rocking.

Coopers is also running a national competition

offering a chance to see Ocean Alley perform in

either Los Angeles or London. Simply buy a pint or

a four-pack of Coopers Ocean Alley Ale and head to

coopers.com.au to enter for your chance to win the

$10,000 VIP concert experience.

REVIEW / 47


A CRAFTY BUNCH/ XXXX

SPICING UP THE GAME

AN ICONIC AUSSIE BEER BRAND IS EXPANDING ITS PORTFOLIO

WITH THE LAUNCH OF XXXX GINGER BEER – AN EXCITING

ENTRANT TO THE POPULAR GINGER BEER CATEGORY.

Crafted for easy drinking, it delivers a bold ginger kick with a smooth

finish, offering a balanced and refreshing taste.

Brewed at the historic Castlemaine Brewery, XXXX Ginger Beer is made

with real ginger juice, delivering a lively kick and a full-bodied finish. At

3.5% ABV, it sits lower than much of the category, appealing to modern

beer drinkers looking for balance without compromising on flavour.

The launch marks a major milestone for XXXX as it expands into one

of Australia’s fastest-growing alcoholic drink categories. As more

consumers seek a ‘near beer’ alternative, the brand is embracing the

shift, innovating its range to cater to diverse tastes.

With its smooth, approachable taste, XXXX Ginger Beer blurs the line

between beer and other categories, extending beyond traditional beer

drinkers and welcoming new audiences from other categories such as

cider and RTD.

This innovation underscores the brewery’s dedication to crafting highquality,

flavourful options that reflect evolving consumer preferences,

leveraging the trust and heritage of the beloved Queensland icon.

Field Sales Director at XXXX, Pat Donohue, said over its 146-year

history, XXXX has continued to evolve to reflect the way Australians like

to drink.

“XXXX is known for full-flavoured but easy drinking beers, and XXXX

Ginger Beer is an exciting new addition to our lineup. It delivers a crisp,

refreshing taste, so we’re confident it will resonate with beer lovers and

ginger beer enthusiasts alike.

“We know there’s a growing appetite for ginger beer and options for

those looking to moderate their alcohol intake, and we’re excited to

introduce our own take on that. We wanted to create something that

not only delivers on flavour, but also offers an easy drinking option.

“XXXX Ginger Beer is perfect for relaxed social occasions, whether it’s

an afternoon barbecue, a day at the beach, or catching up with mates.

It’s an exciting step for the brand as we continue to expand our portfolio

to suit the way Australians drink today,” he said.

XXXX Ginger Beer is now available nationwide in major liquor

retailers, and will be available to purchase in 330ml bottles in leading

liquor stores across Australia. RRP starts from $89 per case and $28

per six-pack.

/ 48

REVIEW


A CRAFTY BUNCH/ BURLEIGH BREWING CO

“SIX MEDALS – TWO

OF THEM GOLD – I’M

ECSTATIC. IT’S WONDERFUL

RECOGNITION FOR OUR

HARD-WORKING TEAM.”

A BEVY OF AWARDS

BURLEIGH BREWING CO’S HOMEGROWN PORTFOLIO OF

BEERS IS NOW RECOGNISED AMONG THE WORLD’S BEST.

The beloved Gold Coast taphouse has been awarded with two

gold medals at the 2025 World Beer Championships for its Japan

Black and famous Bighead drops, as well as four silver gongs

for its Cerveza, Black Giraffe, Slow Brewed Lager, and Duke

Premium lagers.

Held in the United States in January, Japan Black in particular

scored an outstanding 92 points out of 100 and was graded as

‘exceptional’ by the judges, while fan favourite Bighead scored

91 points.

Chief executive officer and founder of Burleigh Brewing, Peta

Fielding, said they are beyond proud to be representing the Gold

Coast on the global stage.

“Six medals – two of them gold – I’m ecstatic. It’s wonderful

recognition for our hard-working team.”

“We started Burleigh Brewing 18 years ago and are still

independent today, so it’s a real thrill to not just mix it with some

of the biggest brands in the world, but actually win.

“It makes a huge difference for small, family-run businesses

like ours to get that support. Bighead has been part of our core

range for over 15 years, and we know the Gold Coast loves it.

Now, it’s a gold medalist.

“The beers are brewed right here at Burleigh Heads, so it goes

to show that south east Queensland is a standout as an alcoholproducing

region,” she said.

The World Beer Championships were first run in the United

States in 1994 by the Beverage Testing Institute, and are now

regarded as one of the preeminent beer awards in the world.

Burleigh Brewing recently hit the legal drinking age – 18 years in

operation – after tapping their first beer in 2006.

Congratulations to the thriving Gold Coast brand, and here’s to

many more years of brewing excellence and global recognition.

“Cheers to premium Queensland beer – crafted locally,

celebrated globally,” Peta said.

REVIEW / 49


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

/ 50

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 / 51


SHOW

CASE

FOOD &

INNOVATION

FOOD &

INNOVATION

FROM FRESH LOCAL PRODUCE TO APPLIANCES AND

EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN, THE CULINARY SCENE IS ALWAYS

BURSTING WITH THE CREATIVE NEW PRODUCTS THAT

QUEENSLAND VENUES NEED FOR A THRIVING KITCHEN.

Trends move fast in the world of foodservice, with consumer preferences

and diets, technological advancements, innovative gastronomy, and new

appliances constantly driving our industry forward.

It is this consistent need for venues to adapt and evolve that ensures our

state’s signature style of hospitality stays delightful, surprising, delicious,

and full of new experiences.

HERE IN QUEENSLAND, WE ARE INCREDIBLY

LUCKY TO HAVE ACCESS TO AN ABUNDANCE

OF PREMIUM, SUSTAINABLY SOURCED

PRODUCE FROM FARMING FAMILIES

STRETCHING BACK GENERATIONS.

On top of that, wholesale meat, dressing, seafood, packaging, and

frozen food companies are expanding rapidly to meet the demand of our

industry’s ever-growing and diversifying customer base.

This edition, we touch base with some of the quality brands that supply

and distribute food to the Queensland hospitality industry. Many of these

businesses have built loyal partnerships with some of Australia’s leading

venues, not to mention countless local farmers, growers, and producers.

/ 52 REVIEW


SHOWCASE/ STODDART

BIG IMPACT

Small Footprint

RAPID COOKING

POWER, SMALL

PACKAGE

BRING UNMATCHED COOKING SPEED, EFFICIENCY, AND

VERSATILITY TO YOUR ESTABLISHMENT WITH STODDART’S

TURBOCHEF ECO.

Rapid Cook Oven

TurboChef Eco is the perfect choice for after-hours hotel

room service and bar menus, and can cook faster thanks to

a combination of convection and microwave cooking.

This unique cooking method is ideal for a wide array of

tasks, from toasting, baking, and roasting to steaming

and reheating. Through dialling in the temperature, fan

speed, and microwave intensity, dishes can be prepared

significantly faster than conventional convection or

microwave alone, without compromising on quality.

The unit’s small footprint (only 409mm wide) and its ability

to be used without a ventilation hood make it the perfect

option for a small bar or café setup, or even a larger kitchen

seeking to complement its lineup without an expensive

renovation. It can be placed anywhere and only requires a

15A connection.

No chefs required

With an intuitive interface and the ability to store unlimited

recipes, anyone can use the TurboChef Eco. It utilises a

unique microwave system that allows the use of metal pans

and cookware, making it even simpler to cook and serve.

Optionally, the Eco can be purchased with a panini press

fitted, providing perfect grill marks.

TurboChef is available exclusively in Australia through

Stoddart and features a range of other units, including the

Sota, i3, i5, Double Batch, and HhC Conveyor ovens. Learn

more about the Eco and the TurboChef range at stoddart.

com.au, call us on 1300 79 1954, or email info@stoddart.

com.au.

Scan to learn more!


SHOWCASE/ WOMBAT VALLEY FOOD GROUP - PFD FOOD SERVICES

DESIGNED TO

INSPIRE AND ELEVATE

BRIDGING THE GAP BETWEEN PREMIUM FOOD PRODUCTION AND THE

PRACTICAL NEEDS OF OPERATORS, WOMBAT VALLEY FOOD GROUP TAKES

US THROUGH SOME OF THE PRODUCTS IN THEIR DIVERSE ANGE THAT

MEET THE DEMANDS OF MODERN HOSPITALITY VENUES.

At Wombat Valley Food Group, we take pride in our journey from

a passionate local supplier to a trusted partner for pubs and hotels

across Australia.

Our story began with a simple but powerful vision – to provide highquality,

innovative food solutions that help businesses thrive in an

ever-evolving industry.

Below are just a few of our best chef-grade sauces we supply to the

Australian foodservice market. To order, go to pfdfoods.com.au and

enter the product code provided next to each item.

HOLLANDAISE

AMERICAN STYLE

BUTTERMILK RANCH

1KG - PFD FOODSERVICES CODE #212605

700G - PFD FOODSERVICES CODE #062379

Dive into the creamy goodness of our American

Style Buttermilk Ranch, which is perfect for

adding a burst of flavour to salads, wraps, and

veggie dips and makes for a great slaw dressing.

Its tangy richness will elevate any dish to a new

level of deliciousness.

Indulge in the rich and velvety texture of our hollandaise sauce – a

classic French sauce made with whole eggs and a hint of lemon that

is perfect for drizzling over eggs benedict or grilled asparagus.

PEPPER MAYO

1KG - PFD FOODSERVICES

CODE #385432

Elevate your sandwiches and

wraps with our Pepper Mayo –

a creamy blend of mayonnaise and cracked black

pepper. This sauce adds a bold and savoury kick to

any dish and is great on a chicken burger.

AIOLI &

KAFFIR LIME

1KG - PFD FOODSERVICES

CODE #381496

Experience a refreshing twist on

traditional aioli with our Aioli & Kaffir

Lime, which blends the aromatic

zest of kaffir lime with creamy garlic

for a delightful burst of flavour. It is

perfect when used as an alternative

to tartare on that seafood special.

NAM JIM

1KG - PFD FOODSERVICES

CODE #281413

Experience the vibrant flavours of

south east Asia with our Nam Jim

sauce – a zesty blend of Thai chilli,

garlic, and lime juice. Perfect for

adding a burst of tangy sweetness

to grilled meats, seafood, or noodle

dishes, this sauce is fantastic

drizzled on a prawn pizza. As an

added benefit, it is also vegan.

/ 54 REVIEW


Where chef grade culinary

excellence meets all your business

tastes...

As the food service landscape continues to evolve, Wombat Valley Food Group

remains committed to being a trusted partner, delivering exceptional products

and solutions that help businesses grow. Whether you’re a small café or a largescale

distributor, we’re here to support your success every step of the way.

DISCOVER HOW WOMBAT FOOD GROUP CAN HELP YOUR

BUSINESS THRIVE AND CONTACT US TODAY.

Proudly Australian Owned Company

a. 1 / 114 Benjamin Place Lytton 4178 p. 07 3396 3061

e. info@wombatfoodgroup.com.au w. wombatfoodgroup.com.au


SHOWCASE/ SIMON GEORGE & SONS

ORDER WITH EASE

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF SIMON GEORGE & SONS, JACK GEORGE,

DISCUSSES THE PREMIUM FRUIT AND VEGETABLE SUPPLIER’S

GAME-CHANGING APP, WHICH IS DESIGNED TO MAKE LIFE EASY FOR

BUSINESSES IN THE QUEENSLAND HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY.

We launched our app 10 years ago. At the time, it was the first

app of its kind – not only in the fruit and vegetable industry, but

across all industries in our space. Every update over the past

decade has been about refreshing the app and making sure we’re

always ahead of the game.

Our latest addition brings growers directly to the platform, making

things even more seamless as we continue to lead the way with

this technology. The idea for the ‘Discovery’ page came from the

growing demand for transparency, as customers wanted to know

exactly where their produce was coming from.

While we’ve always had excellent visibility of our direct farm

sourcing, we needed a way to share that information with our

clients in a way that was easy, accessible, and engaging. Now,

that information is right at their fingertips.

CHEFS, IN PARTICULAR, WANT FULL

TRANSPARENCY – THEY WANT TO

KNOW THE STORY BEHIND THEIR

INGREDIENTS, HOW THEY WERE

GROWN, AND WHO GREW THEM.

Venues can see the journey of their produce, understand the

growers behind it, and feel more connected to their food than

ever before. It’s all about bridging the gap between farm and fork.

Now more than ever, people care about where their food comes

from. Chefs, in particular, want full transparency – they want to

know the story behind their ingredients, how they were grown,

and who grew them.

Ethical sourcing isn’t just a trend – it’s an expectation, and it’s just

as important to us as it is to them.

As key members in the food service industry, we understand that

food is more than just ingredients on a plate. They carry a story –

a journey from paddock to plate – which is why we’re committed

to making it easy for chefs to access sourcing information,

helping them bring those stories to life on their menus.

We’ve built strong, long-standing relationships with thousands

of farms across the country. Through our ‘Grower Spotlight’

feature, we highlight key farms and seasonal produce in each

region, giving chefs deeper insight into their ingredients. A few

farms we've spotlighted recently include Zerella Fresh and Parker

Strawberries in South Australia, Coolibah Herbs in Victoria, and

NQ Fresh (melons) in Queensland.

Our partnership with Zerella Fresh is a great example of the deep

connections we’ve built over the years. Both Simon George &

Sons and Zerella Fresh are family businesses, and we’ve been

working together for generations.

The relationship began when we first sourced potatoes from

the Pye family. As the company grew into Zerella Fresh, our

partnership evolved. Today, we continue to source onions, carrots,

and potatoes from the business and foster a relationship built on

trust, quality, and a shared passion for fresh produce.

Apps and online ordering have been a natural evolution for us

over the past 10 years. Everyone, including chefs, has their phone

within arm’s reach at all times. We knew ordering needed to be

easy, seamless, and even a little bit fun.

Our goal was to take the hassle out of the process, giving

chefs and buyers a quick, intuitive way to place orders without

interrupting their busy kitchens. The response continues to be

huge. The industry has embraced it, and it’s changed the way

people order fresh produce for the better.

/ 56 REVIEW



SHOWCASE/ NUTWORKS

FARM TO YOU

NESTLED IN THE HOME OF THE

ORIGINAL MACADAMIA TREE,

NUTWORKS SHOWCASES THEIR

PREMIUM RANGE OF MACADAMIA NUT

PRODUCTS, WHICH BRING A TRULY

AUSTRALIAN FLAVOUR EXPERIENCE

TO ANY HOSPITALITY VENUE.

Packed with nutrients and boasting a

unique and delicate flavour, macadamia

nuts have been considered a delicacy

since they were first discovered growing

in the subtropical rainforests of our state.

So, how does Nutworks add even more

value to one of the world’s finest nuts?

Well, born out of a passion for showcasing

the bounty of Sunshine Coast’s

macadamia farms, we know a thing or

two about pairing innovative flavours

with super high-quality produce for the

Australian hospitality industry.

EXCLUSIVE TRADE

BENEFITS

PARTNER WITH NUTWORKS

As part of our commitment to supporting the

hospitality and retail industry, we offer:

• 100% Australian owned, grown and made

• free samples on request

• trade support on your first order

• marketing support – digital, print, and

point-of sale materials

• social media content sharing and

collaboration to boost your brand

• a dedicated sales representative for

personalised assistance

• competitive pricing to suit your business

• 75g, 200g and bulk supply available with

no MOQ and up to pallet volume orders

BULK SUPPLY

SUITED FOR THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY

Nutworks Bulk Supply range is comprised

of 10kg cartons of raw, roasted, and

flavoured macadamas in addition to

20L macadamia oils.

As a premium range of topshelf,

professional-quality

ingredients, our convenient

Bulk Supply options are

perfect for use in the

commercial kitchens

of Queensland.

GOURMET

SALTY, SPICY, AND SWEET

Using only the most premium hand-sorted

kernels, our Gourmet range blends carefully

curated flavours with the creamy goodness of

locally grown macadamia nuts.

These packs celebrate the very best of what our

harvest has to offer, and come in classic and

familiar flavours such as Manuka Honey and

Roast Salt and international taste experiences

such as Maple Pancake and Crunchy Hickory.

Gourmet by Nutworks comes in 75g packets

and is perfect for in-room purchases, bar snacks,

distilleries, wineries, and outdoor functions. Also

available in 200g family-sized packs.

INDULGE

SWEET, DECADENT, AND INDULGENT

Sweet and infused with the innovative flavours

of salted caramel, lamington, and even salted

chilli, our Indulge range brings together two

ultimate treats – macadamias and decadent

milk, white, and dark chocolate.

These packs are

available in 75g and

are perfect for hotel

gifts and hampers.

Also available in 200g

family-sized packs.

Macadamia Hummus

/ 58

REVIEW


Nutworks newest taste sensation is here! An Australian-inspired bite, these handcrafted, premium

macadamias are coated in a fine dusting of finger lime and jalapeño powder.

With just the right blend of zest, spice, and zing to invigorate your taste buds, this special addition to

Nutworks Gourmet range is amazing on a cheese board or by the handful with a refreshing cocktail.

Partner with Nutworks for exclusive trade benefits!

Contact Daniel Philp to begin your order today: 0402 652 432 or info@nutworks.com.au

37 Pioneer Rd, Yandina | 07 5472 7777

nutworks.com.au

100% Australian owned, grown and made.


SHOWCASE/ MCCAIN FOODSERVICE

THE ABSOLUTE BEST

MULTI-NATIONAL LEADER IN THE FROZEN FOOD AND AGRICULTURE

INDUSTRY, MCCAIN FOODSERVICE SOLUTIONS, TAKES US THROUGH

WHY THEIR PREMIUM POTATOES TASTE SO GOOD.

It’s simple. Great food starts with strong local connections.

From fresh, homegrown produce to Aussie communities and a

sustainable future, McCain knows supporting local from field to

plate helps businesses serve fries they can be proud of.

Over 50 years growing businesses naturally

That's how long McCain have been helping hotels and pubs

thrive with amazing produce.

McCain selects the best-quality potatoes for its fries, then

cuts them to perfection – with just the right length and potato

solids for a higher yield, complete with that golden colour and

deliciously crisp texture.

• high in yield

• high in potato solids

• the right length

• the right texture

It takes a community to grow great potatoes

Great fries don’t grow in isolation. McCain wouldn't be McCain

without their family of over 120 Aussie growers and their

communities.

It's why they give as much back as they can, proudly partnering

with a range of charities, initiatives and events: such as donating

over 600,000 meals to FoodBank in support of hunger relief and

the McCain team contributing more than 1,500 hours of volunteer

work in the community.

Growing a better tomorrow

You can't grow sustainable potatoes in an unsustainable

environment. That’s why McCain is driving real change through a

four-part sustainability strategy, so we can all celebrate delicious,

planet-friendly food long into the future.

• smarter, more sustainable farming

• more resource-efficient operations

• food that’s as good as it looks

• communities that thrive

McCain's locally grown range

With the great range of premium products from McCain

Foodservice Solutions, businesses can be sure they’re serving the

absolute best – and tastiest – ingredients.

Discover McCain’s local range at:

www.mccainfoodservice.com.au/together-we-grow.

/ 60

REVIEW


TOGETHER

WE

GROW

What makes McCain’s fresh,

quality produce taste so good?

Whether it’s fresh potatoes, Aussie communities

or a sustainable future, McCain is proud to help

locals grow by helping businesses serve the

absolute best home-grown produce.

Find out how

we’re growing at

mccainfoodservice.com.au


PUB TALK/ PAUL ST JOHN-WOOD

SUN’S OUT

FINGERS CROSSED THE WORST OF THE WEATHER IS NOW BEHIND US FOR THIS YEAR.

I hope you, your staff, and your patrons were able to

stay safe throughout the events in north and south east

Queensland and wish those that were affected every

strength in the recovery of their health and property.

Two-up on Anzac Day

Many hotels will be looking to host two-up games in

their venues on Anzac Day, but remember you must

receive written approval from an RSL sub-branch, and the

following conditions are to be adhered to:

• people aged under 18 must not play two-up

• no commission can be charged on money wagered

• all money wagered in the game must be returned to

players as winnings

• if an entry fee is charged for those who participate in

the game, the money raised is to be donated to the

RSL or RSL sub-branch to support ex-service men

and women and their families (this could be through

an association such as Legacy)

• money raised from entry fees must not be used for

administrative purposes

• The QHA can assist members with a template letter for

seeking RSL sub-branch written approval to conduct

two-up and can provide information on Anzac Day

trading conditions.

QHA Awards for Excellence finalists to be announced

Finalists for the 2025 QHA Awards for Excellence will be

announced on April 28. Again, this year there have been

hundreds of nominations from right across the state, and it

has been amazing to see the standards set from operators

who continue to elevate their business year on year.

Best of luck to all who have nominated, and we look

forward to seeing your venues showcased at the gala

event on Monday 30 June at the Brisbane Convention and

Entertainment Centre.

People, Pots & Profits Forum – Bundaberg

Thank you to the team at the East End Hotel Bundaberg for

hosting the QHA & CUB People, Pots and Profits Forum on

18 March. The event was well attended by hoteliers across

the region who received insights from the QHA and Asahi

Group teams, along with presenters from Cooking the

Books and DNS Specialty Services focusing on reducing

costs and maximising profits. The next People, Pots &

Profits event will be held in Townsville in August.

Gaming payouts in excess of cash limit

The QHA has made representations to OLGR to amend the

Gaming Regulations to allow a venue to select an alternate

payment method as their default for gaming payouts that

exceed the cash payment limit.

According to the current regulations, if a gaming player

refuses an alternate payment method, they must be paid

by cheque. As many of you are experiencing, financial

institutions are notifying customers that cheques will no

longer be available soon. As such, the regulations need to

be amended to align with the unavailability of cheques. We

will notify you as soon as the change has been made.

QHA & TABCORP Race Day – Rockhampton

Thank you to all the hoteliers and industry suppliers who

turned out for the annual QHA & TABCORP Race Day in

Rockhampton in March. The event was a terrific occasion

for attendees to network in a relaxed atmosphere. More

than 250 guests thoroughly enjoyed the nourishment and

refreshments from a range of industry partners and, of

course, appreciated the investment opportunities provided

by the major sponsors of the event, TAB.

/ 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

Trinitas Australia Pty Ltd

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

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

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

QHA DIAMOND PARTNERS

Liquor Licensing Consultants

Ph: 0417 632 311

liquor-licensing.com.au

Off Market Hotels

Ph: 0408 192 490

offmarkethotels.com.au

Logic Hospitality

Ph: 07 5520 3957

logichospitality.com.au

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

Ph: 0433 553 987

E: Info@prostaffevents.com.au

prostaffevents.com.au

Relief Hotel Management

Ph: 0419 733 681

reliefhotelmanagement.com

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

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

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 GOLD PARTNERS

QHA SILVER PARTNERS

H&L Australia

Next Payments

Odyssey

Onyx Gaming

Optus Sport

Prosperity Advisers QLD

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

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

Trinitas Australia Pty Ltd

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

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REVIEW


Smarter

payments for

hospitality.

The new Smart Hospitality app by

CommBank will transform the way

you handle customer payments.

Features include

Pay at table

Digital receipts

Split bills

Tip customisation

‘Hospitality’ at commbank.com.au

T&C’s and fees apply. Commonwealth Bank of Australia ABN 48 123 123 124

POS Integration powered by Doshii. Doshii is a registered trademark of Doshii Connect Pty Ltd.


BOLD & REFRESHIING

ALCOHOLIC GINGER BEER

BEER

3.5% ABV. 100% FLAVOUR.

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