QHA Review - Issue 69 - May 2025

MAY 2025

SHOWCASE

DESIGN &

RENOVATION

SHINING A SPOTLIGHT ON THE BUSINESSES

REVOLUTIONISING THE INDUSTRY ALONGSIDE

OUR PUBS AND HOTELS.

NEWS

QHA AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE FINALISTS

FEATURE

SURFERS PARADISE BEER GARDEN

A CRAFTY BUNCH

TRAVLA

EDITOR’S LETTER

Co-Chair Shane King MP; QHA CEO Bernie Hogan; Co-Chair The Hon Sam O’Connor MP Minister for Housing, Public Works,

and Youth; and Night Life Economy Commissioner John Collins at the Parliamentary Friends of Queensland Music event.

RED TAPE REDUCTION

At the QHA, we are always reminded

that our sole purpose is to ensure the

livelihood of our members is protected,

whether they are in the populated south

east or anywhere across this vast state.

Having survived the last month of what

seems to be never-ending short weeks

and public holidays, we are hopeful that

we get some solid trading conditions to

bolster the year. To all of our members

affected by natural disasters in the first

quarter of the calendar year, this has

been totally excruciating.

This is why, since late last year, the

QHA have been working with the

Queensland Government to alleviate

some of the ridiculous and costly

barriers that are put in front of the entire

industry. Chief among these are the

trading hour restrictions placed on the

industry during the Easter and Anzac

Day period.

In a modern society, where our patrons

choose to observe these public holidays

in many different ways, it is time to

allow hotels to open as if it were a

normal trading day. This makes sense

for all parties concerned. Penalty

rates for our staff working on these

days mean that venues need every

opportunity to trade and avoid a loss.

Further, the people of Queensland are

hindered by arcane rules that make no

one safer, are confusing, and are not in

step with modern life. Thankfully, the

Queensland Government is listening,

and we will be trying to alleviate this

pain for members as soon as possible.

You will often hear in every industry

how ‘red tape’ ties up business. This

is usually old regulations that are no

longer useful or fit for purpose.

The QHA has already made the

Queensland Government aware of

a long list of these regulations. They

range from ‘happy hour’ promotions

to safe night precinct scanning, rapid

intoxication drinks policies, and security

camera register signatures.

“FURTHER, THE PEOPLE OF QUEENSLAND ARE HINDERED

BY ARCANE RULES THAT MAKE NO ONE SAFER, ARE

CONFUSING, AND ARE NOT IN STEP WITH MODERN LIFE.”

The list seems never-ending, but we will

continue to try to free all our members

from this bureaucratic torture.

BERNIE HOGAN

QHA CHIEF EXECUTIVE/EDITOR

REVIEW / 3

NEWS

FEATURE

A CRAFTY BUNCH

CONTRIBUTORS

SHOWCASE

OUR

COVER:

The Metropole Hotel,

Townsville

SERVING HOSPITALITY SINCE 1885.

MAY 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

16. BITE SIZE

18. FEATURE

SURFERS PARADISE BEER GARDEN

36. TOP DROP

38. A CRAFTY BUNCH

TRAVLA

52. SHOWCASE

DESIGN & RENOVATION

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

THOMAS LESTER

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 Advisor

Tom is the first point of call for

our members in the Employment

Relations department, and offers

a diverse range of knowledge

from his previous ER advisory and

venue management roles within

the industry.

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

CONGRATULATIONS!

YOU ARE A FINALIST

BEST BISTRO

METROPOLITAN

Buderim Tavern

Eden Brewhouse

River Road Tavern

The Beach Hotel

The Brook Hotel

The Full Moon Hotel

The Rose & Crown

Tingalpa Hotel

BEST BISTRO

REGIONAL

Burke & Wills Hotel

Exchange Hotel Kilcoy

Gracemere Hotel

Hotel Settlers

Porters Plainland Hotel

Shamrock Hotel

The Linville Hotel

BEST DELUXE

ACCOMMODATION

Ardo Hotel

Hyatt Regency Brisbane

JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort

RACV Noosa Resort

Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort

Port Douglas

Spicers Clovelly Estate

Spicers Peak Lodge

Spicers Tamarind Retreat

The Calile Hotel

The Langham, Gold Coast

BEST DETACHED

BOTTLESHOP

Black Sheep Bottle Shop

Bowen Hills


Everton Hills


Hendra


Newmarket


The Gap


Upper Kedron

Maryborough Central Bottle-O

Carriers Arms Hotel Motel


The Bottle-O Station Square

Carriers Arms Hotel Motel

BEST

DRAUGHT BEER

Archive Beer Boutique

Beach House Hotel

Eden Brewhouse

Gracemere Hotel

Osbourne Hotel


Regatta Hotel

Shamrock Hotel

The Sun Hotel

Wattle Hotel

BEST ENTERTAINMENT

VENUE


Chattahoochee Joe’s Honky

Tonk Bar

Eatons Hill Hotel

Felons Barrel Hall

Harvey Road Tavern

Kings Beach Tavern

Magnums Hotel

Royal George Hotel

The Dock Mooloolaba

The Newmarket Hotel

The Star Gold Coast

BEST

ENVIRONMENTAL &

ENERGY EFFICIENCY

PRACTISE

Howard Smith Wharves

RACV Noosa Resort

Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort

Port Douglas

W Brisbane

BEST FAMILY

DINING

Centenary Tavern

Orion Hotel

River Road Tavern

Sandstone Point Hotel

The Doonan

The Full Moon Hotel

The Gap Tavern

The Woombye Pub

Tingalpa Hotel

/ 6

REVIEW

BEST GAMING VENUE

METROPOLITAN

Albany Creek Tavern

Eden Brewhouse

Mermaid Waters Hotel

Shafston Hotel

The Brook Hotel

Tingalpa Hotel

Wattle Hotel

BEST GAMING VENUE

REGIONAL

Bay Central Tavern

Beach House Hotel

Bowen Hotel

Burke & Wills Hotel

Gracemere Hotel

Newtown Hotel


The Sun Hotel

The Woombye Pub

BEST HOTEL BAR

ACCOMMODATION

DIVISION

Crystalbrook Riley

Crystalbrook Vincent

Hotel Indigo


JW Marriott Gold Coast

Resort & Spa

Oaks Cairns Hotel

Sandstone Point Holiday Resort

Spicers Hidden Vale

W Brisbane

BEST HOTEL BAR

GENERAL DIVISION

METROPOLITAN

Breakfast Creek Hotel


Tonk Bar

Jim’s Bait & Tackle

The Full Moon Hotel

Lúc Lăc

Regatta Hotel

River Road Tavern

Sandstone Point Hotel

Sunny’s Margate Beach

The Brook Hotel

BEST HOTEL BAR

GENERAL DIVISION

REGIONAL

Barron Valley Hotel

Bowen Hotel

Burke & Wills Hotel


Grand Hotel Childers


The Linville Hotel

Western Hotel

BEST HOTEL

GROUP OPERATOR

Comiskey Group

Hakfoort Group

Kickon Group

Oaks Hotels, Resorts & Suites

Rambla

BEST HOTEL/PUB STYLE

ACCOMMODATION

Barron Valley Hotel

Golden Beach Tavern


The Imperial Hotel

The Linville Hotel

The Queensland Hotel

Goondiwindi

BEST LATE NIGHT

VENUE


Tonk Bar

Orion Hotel

Osbourne Hotel

Royal George Hotel


Goondiwindi

NEWS/ QHA AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE FINALISTS

BEST MARKETED

HOTEL

ACCOMMODATION

Hotel Indigo

Hotel X


Resort & Spa

QT Gold Coast

Rambla @ Perry House


The Langham, Gold Coast

W Brisbane

BEST MARKETED

HOTEL

GENERAL


Felons Brewing Co

Hotel Commonwealth

Osbourne Hotel

Shafston Hotel

The Beach Hotel

The Full Moon Hotel

The Glen Hotel

BEST

MEETING & EVENTS

VENUE


Brisbane Marriott Hotel

Eatons Hill Hotel

InterContinental Sanctuary

Cove Resort


Resort & Spa

QT Gold Coast

RACV Royal Pines Resort

Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort,

Port Douglas

The Star Gold Coast

The Westin Brisbane

W Brisbane

REVIEW / 7

BEST MID-RANGE

ACCOMMODATION

40 on Marshall Boutique Hotel

Four Points by Sheraton Brisbane

Mermaid Waters Hotel

Oaks Cairns Hotel

Rambla @ Perry House

The Brook Hotel

VOCO Brisbane City Centre

BEST OUTDOOR

NON-ENCLOSED FACILITY


Jacobs Well Hotel

RG’s Beer Garden

Royal George Hotel

Ric’s Backyard

Royal George Hotel

The Brook Hotel

The Doonan

The Junction Hotel

The Plough Inn South Bank


Goondiwindi

BEST

REDEVELOPED HOTEL

GENERAL & ACCOMMODATION

Berserker Tavern

Hope Island Tavern

Hotel Commonwealth

Meriton Suites Broadbeach

The Newmarket Hotel

The Manly Hotel


Goondiwindi

The Woombye Pub

BEST RESTAURANT

ACCOMMODATION

CC’s Bar & Grill

Crystalbrook Bailey

Citrique


Resort & Spa

Homage

Spicers Hidden Vale

Izakaya Publico

Hotel Indigo

Settimo

The Westin Brisbane

The Lex

W Brisbane

The Long Apron

Spicers Clovelly Estate

The Peak

Spicers Peak Lodge

The Tamarind


Yamagen

QT Gold Coast

BEST RESTAURANT

METROPOLITAN & REGIONAL

Barron Valley Hotel

Blackbird Bar

Dining & Events

Byblós Brisbane

Deery’s Restaurant

Story Bridge Hotel

Lúc Lăc

Nineteen at The Star Gold Coast

Regatta Hotel

Stanley Restaurant

The Newmarket Hotel

The Woombye Pub

BEST RETAIL

LIQUOR OUTLET

Eatons Hill Hotel

Eleven Bridges

& Black Sheep Bottle Shop

South Brisbane


River Road Tavern


Goondiwindi

The Walloon Hotel

BEST SPORTING

ENTERTAINMENT VENUE

Burleigh Town Hotel

Coolum Beach Hotel

Eatons Hill Hotel

Harvey Road Tavern

River Road Tavern

The Caxton Hotel

The Newmarket Hotel

The Plough Inn South Bank

BEST

SUITE/APARTMENT

HOTEL

Avani Broadbeach Residences

Crystalbrook Bailey

Meriton Suites Surfers Paradise

RACV Noosa Resort

Rambla @ Berwick House

The Langham

Gold Coast

BEST SUPERIOR

ACCOMMODATION


Burke & Wills Hotel

Crystalbrook Flynn

Crystalbrook Vincent

Spicers Balfour Hotel

QT Gold Coast

The Westin Brisbane

W Brisbane

/ 8

REVIEW

BEST TAB

LICENSED VENUE

River Road Tavern

The Caxton Hotel

The Imperial Hotel

BEST TOURISM

INITIATIVE


Spicers Hidden Vale


CHEF

OF THE YEAR

Brad Casey

The Glen Hotel

John Kennedy

W Brisbane

Luke Wakefield

Spicers Hidden Vale

Paul Smart


Resort & Spa

Tamarah Edwards


EMPLOYEE EXCELLENCE

IN SERVICE

ACCOMMODATION DIVISION

Bijay Sapkota

Hotel X

Joseph Bartlett

QT Gold Coast

Krityona Mehrotra

Seaworld Resort

Mick Stewart

Hotel Indigo

Mukul Kadaba


Resort & Spa

Troy Murray

VOCO Brisbane City Centre

Wendy Robson

Seaworld Resort

EMPLOYEE EXCELLENCE

IN SERVICE

GENERAL DIVISION

Jonathan Trist

The Beach Hotel

Matilda Duggan


Samantha Wallis

Spicers Hidden Vale

Tarlochan Singh

Watermark Townsville

Thomas Collins

The Dock, Mooloolaba

Troy Litzow

Spicers Hidden Vale

Warren Page

Bowen Hotel

FRONT OF HOUSE

EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR

ACCOMMODATION DIVISION

James Sweeney


Jinny Dinh

Meriton Suites Surfers Paradise

Rowan Clark

QT Gold Coast

Samuel Varghese

Seaworld Resort

Tanja Kwan

Meriton Suites Southport

Zharmaine Avanzado-Mangabat

Seaworld Resort

FRONT OF HOUSE

EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR

GENERAL DIVISION

Harrison Linning


Kaitlin Keys

Watermark Townsville

Morgan Grimshaw

Spicers Hidden Vale

Rose Hayes


Shannon Stickells

Spicers Hidden Vale

Tina Corradi

The Beach Hotel

NEWS/ QHA AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE FINALISTS

RESPONSIBLE SERVICE

ALCOHOL/GAMING



Shafston Hotel

The Caxton Hotel

The Star Gold Coast

HOTEL INDUSTRY

RISING STAR

Alex Protani

Eden Brewhouse

Alexxia Tassopoulos


Resort & Spa

Alyss Irwin


Brooke McLachlan


Katelyn Grierson

Spicers Balfour Hotel

Kiana Jones


Sarah Hansen

QT Gold Coast

Sophie Boyce

The Beach Hotel

KENO OUTSTANDING

COMMUNITY SERVICE &

ACHIEVEMENT

GENERAL & ACCOMMODATION

Barron Valley Hotel

Coolum Beach Hotel


Hotel X


Kawana Waters Hotel

River Road Tavern

The Caxton Hotel

OUTSTANDING

ACHIEVEMENT

IN TRAINING



Resort & Spa

The Full Moon Hotel

REVIEW / 9

NEWS/ QHA RACE DAY

AND THEY’RE OFF!

AMONG THE WINS AND LOSSES, THE QHA &

TABCORP RACE DAY WAS A FANTASTIC SUCCESS,

ATTRACTING OVER 180 MEMBERS, PARTNERS, AND

INDUSTRY SUPPORTERS ON A PERFECT DAY AT THE

ROCKHAMPTON JOCKEY CLUB.

Tabcorp provided another wonderful forum where

attendees were able to hear about the latest

innovations that TAB has to offer in the industry. It

was also an excellent networking opportunity for

friends, colleagues, and supporters of Queensland

hospitality.

As always, QHA’s beverage partners made sure

that all guests were well taken care of by offering

a diverse selection of products throughout the day

thanks to Lion Beverages, Asahi Beverages, Pernod

Ricard, Treasury Wine Estates, Accolade Wines,

Diageo, and Coca-Cola Europacific Partners.

We’d also like to make a special shoutout to PFD

Food Services for the amazing, freshly shucked

oysters and prawns upon arrival!

As the QHA & Tabcorp Race Day continues to

grow its reputation as one of the QHA’s most

popular networking events, it was wonderful to

witness again the level of support it receives from

members. We cannot thank you enough!

/ 10

REVIEW

NEWS/ PPP BUNDABERG

TOGETHER IN BUNDY

THE FIRST PEOPLE, POTS & PROFITS EVENT FOR 2025 WAS

HOSTED AT THE EAST END HOTEL IN BUNDABERG.

More than 60 guests enjoyed presentations on food and beer

wastage, behavioural detection, leadership, and industry market

insights.

Held in conjunction with Asahi Beverage Group, guest speakers

included Ally from DNS Specialist Services and Andrew Briese

from Cooking The Books as well as the QHA and Asahi teams.

The highlight of the event is always the Perfect Pour

Competition, where the attendee who pours the best beer gets

to win a keg for their venue. Congratulations to Jake McKinnon

from the Yandaran Hotel!

The Lucky Door Prize of a Sticky Dates food label app and

printer, courtesy of CTB and Co, went to the team at Agnes

Water Tavern.

The next People, Pots & Profits event will be hosted in

Townsville on 27 August. Keep an eye for further details and

don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to learn, network, and

grow your business.

Suited to hotel owners, venue managers, executive chefs, and

business decision-makers, this event is free for hotel members

to attend.

Specialists in gaming transitions,

tailored refurbishments, and premium

hotel fit-outs across Queensland.

Trusted expertise. Exceptional results.

Start your transformation today.

michael@caughleyco.com.au

caughleyco.com.au

0434 549 242

“Every project is personal. Every client’s

satisfaction is non-negotiable.” - Michael Caughley

REVIEW / 11

NEWS/ THE FOX HOTEL

A NEW ERA

GHANEM GROUP HAS TAKEN OVER THE FOX HOTEL IN SOUTH BRISBANE, PROMISING TO BRING A

MULTI-STOREY, MODERN DINING AND ENTERTAINMENT PRECINCT TO FISH LANE.

Known for its creative and eclectic portfolio of venues, the

Brisbane-based family-owned hospitality group is planning

to reopen the iconic hotel in South Brisbane as a worldclass

multi-level dining, events, and entertainment precinct

in late 2025.

The pioneering brand continues to grow its portfolio of

venues across Queensland and Melbourne, adding to its

diversity of styles and cuisines from around the world.

The revitalisation of the heritage-listed landmark has

been hotly contested, not just due to its location on

Melbourne Street at the heart of the thriving Fish Lane

arts, food, and entertainment precinct, but also due to its

beautiful architecture.

First opening as ‘The Terminus’, the venue has been

a beloved Queensland watering hole since 1927.

Unfortunately, the icon was damaged during the 2022

floods and has remained closed ever since.

Today, the Ghanem Group is planning a full interior redesign

and fit-out (with the help of Space Cubed Design Studio)

that respects the hotel’s legacy, conserving its heritage

features and art deco charm to deliver an exciting collection

of modern dining and drinking experiences under one

incredible roof.

The guest adventure will unfold over four diverse floors, with

each capturing an era of the hotel’s eclectic past, delivering a

multi-venue experience at one outstanding location.

Director of Ghanem Group, Adonis Ghanem, said this is

their largest and one of their most exciting projects to date.

“The growing community of this area has long-awaited the

return of this legendary venue, and to have the opportunity

to bring the next era of dining and entertainment to this

iconic site is a true honour.

“This is a project that we are very much excited about,”

he said.

From the new entry on Fish Lane, guests can choose their

own adventure. Experiences range from a ground-level

public bar with bistro dining, a gaming lounge with an

adjoining bottle shop, two dedicated function spaces, a

sophisticated late-night cocktail lounge, and a stunning

rooftop terrace with expansive views of Brisbane’s CBD and

performing arts district.

Ghanem Group began in 2006 with the launch of Byblós

Brisbane by brothers Adonis and Nehme Ghanem. The

family’s hospitality legacy dates back to 1978, when the

brothers’ parents owned Lebanese restaurants across

the city.

The group has grown fastidiously to where it is today, and

has its sights set firmly on the role it will continue to play

in the future of Australia’s exciting and evolving hospitality

landscape.

“THE GUEST ADVENTURE

WILL UNFOLD OVER FOUR

DIVERSE FLOORS, WITH

EACH CAPTURING AN ERA

OF THE HOTEL’S ECLECTIC

PAST, DELIVERING A MULTI-

VENUE EXPERIENCE AT ONE

OUTSTANDING LOCATION.”

/ 12

REVIEW

NEWS/ 10 YEARS OF SERVING HOSPITALITY

FAMILIAR

FACES

IN APRIL, THE QHA HAD THE OPPORTUNITY

TO CELEBRATE THE 10-YEAR MILESTONES

FOR THREE OF THE INDUSTRY’S

FAVOURITES – PAUL ST JOHN-WOOD, ANN

MARTIN, AND JUDY KATRO.

These remarkable individuals make up the QHA team – which

has been ‘serving hospitality since 1885’ – and work alongside our

members to make the industry a better place for everyone.

Many will know Paul from his work across the state in our

membership services team. His ability to provide advice and uplift

members spirits is second to none. Paul said he can’t believe 10

years has flown by so fast.

“It has been a pleasure and a privilege to be able to assist

our members throughout that time. I appreciate the role the

association plays in supporting business owners in the sector,

and I relish the opportunity to contribute in any small way to their

success and sanity.

“It’s memorable for all the wrong reasons, but I will never forget

the Covid-19 lockdowns. I remember I had 132 phone calls on the

first day of the national lockdown. My phone started ringing at

7am, and I hung up from the last call at 8:45pm.

“It was traumatic to hear the distress from business owners who

had their livelihoods tied up in venues that had been shut down

overnight. The way the industry was able to pivot through that

time was remarkable,” he said.

Previously in an employment relations role, QHA’s financial

controller, Ann, in addition to the ‘voice’ of the QHA, Judy, has

been handling member enquiries with skill, knowledge, and

empathy for years.

Ann said reaching this milestone has certainly brought a sense of

achievement.

“There have been numerous hurdles and major learning curves

along the way, including moving into the lead finance role that,

at the time, was bigger than my qualifications, knowledge, and

experience. I appreciate Bernie’s trust and confidence.

“There have been so many incredible moments, but it’s always

been particularly memorable when our small member venues win

an Award for Excellence. Early in my time with the QHA, I went

to Goondiwindi with some friends for the weekend. I visited this

venue and noticed some award plaques on the walls.

“The owner showed me around the hotel, which was undergoing

renovations. A piece of very old lino had been uncovered, and

new lino had been made to closely match it so the renovations

would be as authentic as possible. A piece of the original was in a

display box on the wall. It was amazing to see that something over

100 years old inspired the new flooring.

“The owner loaned me some books, which included references

to the QHA’s rich history with the hotel and other venues in

Goondiwindi. I realised the long-standing relationships that the

association has had with its members, and the importance of it,”

she said.

Judy said each of her 10 years working with the QHA mean a lot

to her, as it’s been a truly satisfying experience working alongside

a great team and supporting an industry that plays such a big role

in the state.

“I’m proud to have been part of it for the past decade and

appreciative of everything I’ve learnt along the way. As a

receptionist, I have the opportunity to speak with many of our

members on a daily basis, which is one of my favourite aspects of

the job.

“One of my memorable moments was a lovely chat I had with a

long-term member who took the time to express how much they

value the friendly voice on the other end of the phone. It was a

simple thing, but it remained with me and reminded me of how

important everyday interactions are,” she said.

“I REALISED THE LONG-STANDING

RELATIONSHIPS THAT THE ASSOCIATION HAS HAD WITH

ITS MEMBERS, AND THE IMPORTANCE OF IT.”

REVIEW / 13

NEWS/ THE GRAND VIEW HOTEL

A LEGACY, REIMAGINED

IF YOU HAVEN’T HEARD YET – SOMETHING BIG IS

BREWING AT THE GRAND VIEW HOTEL IN THE REDLANDS.

As one of Queensland’s oldest licensed pubs, the Grand View

(owned by the Kickon Group) is currently undergoing a major

transformation, with doors set to reopen in July 2025.

While the venue’s heritage-listed elements are being

respectfully preserved, the rest is being completely reimagined

on a massive scale.

Marketing manager at the venue, Jorja Casey, said they’re creating

an expansive outdoor dining precinct with seating for well over

500 guests, anchored by a multi-million-dollar kitchen featuring a

wood-fired pizza oven and what will be Australia’s largest Josper

rotisserie grill.

“A new undercover upper dining terrace will link seamlessly from

outside to a fresh new interior bar, while the iconic front bar is

getting a minor refresh, keeping its overall charm.

“Out the back, we’re constructing a purpose-built marquee

for private events and functions, seating up to 120 guests and

featuring its own bar, amenities, and built-in screens – ideal for

weddings, celebrations, and in-house events.

“Expect a vibrant mix of live music, big-screen sports, and casual

outdoor spaces, including a variety of high and low seating,

umbrellas, and a whole lot of energy,” she said.

Just a few short months ago, the early stages of the renovation

uncovered a 19th-century cistern tucked beneath the Grand

View’s old Emu Bar.

From there, they discovered the original to-let advertisements of

the venue from 1855, which described ‘a water tank in excellent

repair capable of holding many hundred gallons of water’ –

something that likely refers to this very structure.

The heritage-listed well will now be proudly on show as part of

the Grand View’s new look.

Despite being closed since mid-2024, the team behind the

174-year-old venue has been doing a fantastic job at keeping

WHILE THE VENUE’S HERITAGE-

LISTED ELEMENTS ARE BEING

RESPECTFULLY PRESERVED, THE REST

IS BEING COMPLETELY REIMAGINED

ON A MASSIVE SCALE.

the community spirit alive during the renovation, hosting many

relaxed Saturday morning meet-ups in a nearby park, complete

with coffees, conversations, and progress updates.

Jorja said there’s plenty of exciting change on the horizon, but

some things will always stay the same.

“The iconic palms standing tall at the front of the Grand View – a

symbol of the beauty and character that have long defined us –

are remaining at the heart of our design. The warm hospitality,

easy-going charm, and perfect spots to enjoy a cold beer with a

bay breeze? They’re never changing.

“Our refreshed colour palette draws inspiration from the

coastal landscape and the rich, earthy hues of the Redlands – a

timeless blend of sea and shore, community and heritage. It’s a

celebration of where we’ve been and an exciting step towards

where we’re headed.

“The Grand View has always been a place where great memories

are made, and we can’t wait to keep that tradition going for years

to come.

We will stay tuned for more updates on the beloved Grand View

Hotel, but this is certainly a taste of the special things to come for

the Redlands and beyond.

/ 14

REVIEW

YOU ARE INVITED TO

MONDAY 30TH JUNE

TICKETS ON SALE NOW

Secure your ticket at qha.org.au

BRISBANE CONVENTION & EXHIBITION CENTRE,

SOUTH BRISBANE

REVIEW / 15

BITE

SIZE

EVERYTHING

FOOD

HUM HONEY

DIRECTLY FROM THE HIVE

PURE, DELICIOUS, AND NATURALLY HARVESTED

RAW HONEYCOMB.

HUM HONEYCOMB is available in full and half-depth frames for a

decadent addition to your breakfast buffet, in addition to small and

large square-cut pieces ideal for cheese and charcuterie platters,

gift hampers, or inspired desserts for the fine dining table. Their

bees free-range on their choice of subtropical rainforest and open

forest hardwoods in the pristine south east Queensland, so you

can enjoy unique flavours that change with every season.

A truly unique culinary creation by their happy bees,

HUM HONEYCOMB has a delicate palate texture

that provides the most exquisite tasting

experience – from their hives to your

table, pure and raw – so you can

savour the flavour.

GET IN TOUCH WITH HUM HONEY:

0419 769 947

orders@humhoney.com.au

W

humhoney.com.au

MOOLOOLABA FISHERIES

INTERNATIONAL

REPUTATION

AUSTRALIAN SOUTHERN BLUEFIN

TUNA SAKU BLOCKS FOR SASHIMI.

KENILWORTH DAIRIES

A SLICE OF

QUEENSLAND HISTORY

THE QUALITY THAT COMES FROM 60 YEARS OF CHEESEMAKING.

The season for the most delicious of the

tuna varieties is fast approaching in June,

which means Mooloolaba Fisheries is

excited to begin offering 100% sashimigrade

Saku blocks for hospitality

businesses, processed from their wharf on

the Sunshine Coast.

Each block is individually hand cut and

packed. Once defrosted, the Saku blocks

have a 10-day shelf life in their packets.

Mooloolaba Fisheries has an international

reputation for offering the highest quality

tuna available, and supply four different

types of Saku, including Akami, Chutoro,

Otoro, and Kama – all individually packed

and frozen in 5kg boxes.

GET IN TOUCH WITH MOOLOOLABA FISHERIES:

With six generations of dairy farming behind them, Kenilworth Dairies

is the best equipped in the industry to supply premium 1kg to 2.4kg

mild, matured, and flavoured cheddars and soft cheeses to venues

across Queensland.

Their cheeses range from Garlic & Cracked Pepper, Vintage Black Wax,

Lemon Myrtle & Macadamia, and Smoked Cheddars to Black Ash,

Truffle, and Triple Cream Brie Wheels.

Made fresh from quality milk originating from the Mary Valley farms in

the Sunshine Coast, venues couldn’t ask for a more authentic, quality,

and flavoursome portfolio of cheese products, and are welcome to

reach out to Kenilworth Dairies for free samples and tastings.

GET IN TOUCH WITH KENILWORTH DAIRIES:

W

0428 762 853

marketing@kenilworthdairies.com.au

kenilworthdairies.com.au

0466 629 199

paul@debrettseafood.com.au

W

fisheriesonthespit.com.au

/ 16

REVIEW

BRAZEN BROWNIES

A PERFECT PAIRING

A SPECIAL OFFER FOR QHA MEMBERS WANTING TO

ELEVATE THEIR CAFÉ EXPERIENCE.

Taking a moment to relax with a perfectly

brewed coffee is a true pleasure. Add a decadently

indulgent chocolate Brazen Brownie into the mix, and it’s

a whole new experience.

“Let’s face it, everyone needs a guilty pleasure,” admits

Brownie Ambassador George Kalpakis. “Brownies are the

perfect match with coffee, texturally and taste-wise.”

For any coffee shop, a beautifully displayed Brazen

Brownies slab provides an irresistible cabinet display

item for patrons. Equally, a pre-packaged brownie

makes a perfect impulse buy for busy customers on

the go. For members keen to up the spend at the coffee

counter with a locally crafted and high-quality product,

Brazen Brownies clearly has the sweetest solution.

With a limited-time 25% discount offer to QHA members,

now is the perfect time to add a brownie to the menu.

GET IN TOUCH WITH BRAZEN BROWNIES:

W

0412 662 233

brazenbrownies.com.au

george@brazenbrownies.com.au

ZEST ELEMENT

ESSENCE OF NATURE

FRUIT POWDER WITH A STORY AND A SOLUTION

FOR EVERY SHELF.

MALENY CUISINE

THE RICHEST RELISH

MALENY CUISINE’S BEST-SELLING

FOODSERVICE PRODUCT.

Packed with whole pieces of fresh onion that get processed

on-site, Maleny Cuisine’s Caramelised Onion Relish is slowcooked

to perfection to bring out its rich flavour profile.

Complemented with a hint of cumin, which sets it apart from

other onion relishes, the product is beloved by venues and

available in a retail size of 300g, in addition to foodservice

sizes of 2.8kg and 5.5kg.

A perfect balance of authentic homestyle taste and gourmet

quality, this Caramelised Onion Relish is great for elevating

cheeseboards, topping gourmet burgers and steaks, filling

onion and goat cheese tartlet appetisers, and featuring in

paninis, sandwiches, and potato salads.

Zest Element transforms rescued Aussie fruit into vibrant,

nutrient-rich powders packed with flavour, colour, and purpose.

Each 150g retail pouch is the equivalent of 1.5kg of rescued

fresh fruit and has a long shelf life – no mess, no waste.

Ideal for venues serving guests who value clean ingredients

and traceable Australian produce, Zest Element’s fruit powder

is now also available in 5kg food service pails for smoothies,

sauces, baking, seasonings, and more.

Whether you’re filling shelves or commercial kitchens, you’re

stocking innovation with impact. Distributors and stockists are

always welcome. Let’s grow together.

GET IN TOUCH WITH ZEST ELEMENT:

W

0448 331 094

zestelement.com.au

zestelement.sales@gmail.com

GET IN TOUCH WITH MALENY CUISINE:

0478 117 883

marina@malenycuisine.com.au

W

malenycuisine.com.au

REVIEW / 17

/ 18 REVIEW

FEATURE/ SURFERS PARADISE BEER GARDEN

KEEPING THE

FUN ALIVE

OVER THE PAST CENTURY, THE SURFERS PARADISE BEER GARDEN HAS

SEEN IT ALL – FROM TRUE-BLUE LOCALS AND BEACH BUMS TO ROCK

STARS AND HOLIDAYMAKERS.

As a true icon of the Gold Coast, you will find fond

memories clinging to every corner of the venue, not

to mention every mural and kitschy piece of surf

décor. This year, the pub is celebrating its 100-year

milestone, causing many to feel nostalgic and look

back at how far it, and our industry, has come.

While the landmark has seen many fresh coats of

paint over the decades, its relaxed, sandy, ‘come as

you are’ culture has remained the same – it’s always

been a haven for those who wish to kick back and

not take themselves too seriously.

Venue manager, Kieren Anderson, affectionately

described the Surfers Paradise Beer Garden as a

time capsule of good times, live music, laughter, and

sunshine.

“Generations have made memories here, and we’re

proud to continue that legacy. We’re more than just

a beer garden – we’re a playground for grown-ups

who are kids at heart. From giant Jenga and Connect

Four to epic live sport broadcasts on our massive

screens, there’s always something happening.

“Our bar has always boasted a curated mix of craft,

local, and classic brews, while our menu serves up

fresh, beach-friendly eats that hit the spot every

time. What really sets us apart is the vibe – open-air,

breezy, and unpretentious… just like Queensland

itself,” he said.

In 1925, renowned hotel entrepreneur James Cavill

created the legendary Surfers Paradise Hotel.

Originally a humble gathering spot just steps from

the sand, the pub has now evolved into one of the

most loved social hubs on the coast.

Today, Surfers Paradise Beer Garden is tucked away

in Cavill Avenue – a street named after James, who

actually petitioned to change the title of the Gold

Coast suburb from Elston to Surfers Paradise (to the

delight of every hotelier and publican in the area).

When asked about the secret to running such a

long-lasting hospitality venue,

Kieren said it’s about

staying true to the core

identity of your pub.

“We’re a laid-back,

welcoming space

where everyone

feels at home.

REVIEW / 19

“OUR LOYAL FOLLOWING

HAS BEEN BUILT ON

CONSISTENCY, COMMUNITY,

AND THE KIND OF AUSSIE

HOSPITALITY THAT NEVER

GOES OUT OF STYLE. WE

EVOLVE, BUT WE NEVER

FORGET OUR BEGINNINGS."

"We’re not about pretence or polish – we’re about real

moments, cold drinks, good food, and good people. Our loyal

following has been built on consistency, community, and the

kind of Aussie hospitality that never goes out of style. We

evolve, but we never forget our beginnings.

“The industry has shifted from formal and traditional to more

casual, experience-driven hospitality – and that’s right up our

alley. People want authenticity, local flavour, and places that

feel like home.

“We’ve kept up by listening to our community, refreshing our

space without losing our identity, and staying relevant without

being trendy for trend’s sake. Our customers lead the way, and

we evolve alongside them,” he said.

In 2019, Cayas + Ward were hired for the refurbishment of the

Surfers Paradise Beer Garden. After a long history marked

by many iterations, the venue saw a return to its roots, being

/ 20

REVIEW

FEATURE/ SURFERS PARADISE BEER GARDEN

fitted out with lush landscaping and bright interior

design elements. Kieren added that the renovation

was all about breathing new life into the heritage

space while keeping its soul intact.

“We opened the venue up to embrace that indoor-outdoor

Gold Coast lifestyle, added fresh new furnishings, upgraded

the kitchen and bar, and gave the whole space a facelift.

But the heart – the people, the energy, and the memories –

remained the same. It’s still the beer garden everyone knows

and loves, just with a fresh coat of sunshine.

“Queenslanders are laid-back, friendly, and welcoming. We

don’t need suits and fine china to have a good time. Our

hospitality reflects our lifestyle – easy-going, outdoorsy, and

centred on connection. Places like ours embody that spirit.

You can walk straight off the beach, grab a cold

drink, and feel right at home. It’s that simple,” he said.

Account manager at Asahi Group, Matthew Turner, said they

trace their proud partnership with the Surfers Paradise Beer

Garden back to when the Mathieson Group was established

in the mid-70s.

"Our relationship has evolved and strengthened in the years

since, including when the group became a business unit

of Carlton & United Breweries in the 90s. We would like to

congratulate the venue on their 100 years and can’t wait to

continue supporting them for the next 100. The venue has

been a mainstay of the Surfers Paradise local community

and will continue to be so in the future," he said.

REVIEW / 21

FEATURE/ FEATURE/ SURFERS DAYDREAM PARADISE ISLAND BEER GARDEN RESORT

“THE BEST IS YET TO COME.

HERE’S TO ANOTHER

HUNDRED YEARS OF

SUNSHINE, STORIES,

AND SCHOONERS.”

The centenary of a iconic pub only comes around once,

so Surfers Paradise Beer Garden is throwing celebrations

in the only way they know how – with live music, local

collaborations, community shoutouts, and plenty of cold beer

to go around. Keiren said the venue is also launching ‘100

Years of Cheers’ in July that honours the stories that their

patrons have shared with them over the years.

“We’re diving headfirst into the vibrant history of Surfers

Paradise with this campaign. It’s a tribute to the people, the

stories, and the good times that have shaped not only the

beer garden, but the heartbeat of Surfers itself.

“We’ll be celebrating each decade with themed events,

vintage throwbacks, live music inspired by each era, and

menu specials that nod to old tastes. We're also putting

the spotlight on local legends and untold stories from the

community – from surf culture pioneers to longtime patrons

who’ve been coming here for generations. It’s about honouring

our roots while having a blast along the way," he said.

Despite being in the thick of the dynamic Gold Coast tourism

industry, Surfers Paradise Beer Garden remains as an ode to

the easy-going, fun and open-air pubs that a lot of us grew

up with. Thankfully, it seems that this nostalgic approach to

hospitality isn’t going out of style anytime soon.

Keiren said he wanted to give a massive thank you to every

person who’s pulled up a stool, shared a laugh, or danced

under the stars with them over the past century.

“This place wouldn’t be what it is without our patrons,

whether they’ve been here once or a hundred times. The best

is yet to come. Here’s to another hundred years of sunshine,

stories, and schooners,” he said.

/ 22

REVIEW

ATTORNEY-GENERAL/ THE HONORABLE DEB FRECKLINGTON MP

DELIVERING FOR 2032 AND BEYOND

IT HAS BEEN A BUSY START TO THE YEAR FOR THE CRISAFULLI GOVERNMENT,

INCLUDING GETTING THE 2032 OLYMPIC AND PARALYMPIC GAMES BACK ON TRACK.

AS THE PREMIER HAS SAID, WE’RE GETTING ON WITH IT!

While the 2032 Games will be a pinnacle event

for athletes and sports fans, it will also be a

fantastic opportunity to showcase everything

else Queensland has to offer on the world

stage. That includes our iconic hotels, which

are set to benefit from the $4.6 billion increase

in tourism and trade expected under the global

spotlight of the 2032 Games.

With so much at stake for the hotel sector,

I am delighted to share our 2032 Delivery

Plan with you. Not only does the plan put

Queensland back on track to deliver a

successful 2032 Games, but the legacy

infrastructure it will deliver means our cities

and towns will be better connected and able

to accommodate bigger and better sports and

entertainment events beyond the games. For

our hotels, it also means there will be even

more opportunities to welcome visitors in for a

cold beer and warm meal after 2032!

We are committed to working closely with

industry to make sure that we are set up to

make the most of this once-a-generation

opportunity, and I encourage you to read our

2032 Delivery Plan to see what is in store

for your region and consider how we can

maximise this opportunity for your venues.

The plan is available at www.qld.gov.au/

delivering2032.

I am also pleased to share with you all that we

have already started work on reinvigorating

our nightlife economy across Queensland

through initiatives like our Live Music Venue

Business Grants and Growing Gigs Fund.

Since March, we have provided more than

$300,000 to 13 venues across the state through

these funding programs, helping Queensland

venues and small businesses to respond to

current industry challenges through facility

upgrades and by increasing the number of live

gigs for local artists.

This is just one way the Crisafulli Government

is backing Queensland’s nighttime economy

and live music sector.

More venues are set to benefit from increased

funding of up to $100,000 per venue when

successful applicants for the programs’ second

rounds are announced at the end of next

month. Good luck to all hotels that applied!

THE PLAN IS AVAILABLE AT

WWW.QLD.GOV.AU/DELIVERING2032.

/ 24

REVIEW

OLGR/ VICTORIA THOMSON

SAFETY FIRST

IN MARCH, I ATTENDED THE FIRST SAFER GAMBLING NETWORK (SGNET)

MEETING OF THE YEAR, WHICH WAS HELD AT THE STAR BRISBANE. .

During this meeting I participated in a panel discussion

alongside Relationships Australia Queensland CEO, Natasha

Rae, and The Star Group Manager for Safer Gambling Training

and Outreach, Junior Toleafoa.

The panel discussion was facilitated by industry veteran David

McAnalen, who I first got to know when he shared his livedexperience

story with us as part of our When Gambling Took

Over campaign.

The SGNet panel discussion covered several topics that all

focused on the importance of collaboration between community,

industry, and government to foster safer gambling environments.

One of the key takeaways was the need to focus on creating a

culture where individuals are supported to self-regulate their

gambling behaviours.

Due to the complex nature of gambling-related harm, regulatory

enforcement will always have a role to play, but our overall aim is

for individuals to feel supported and equipped to self-regulate.

The panel also touched on the importance of using selfassessment

tools to examine circumstances locally. These tools

can help licensees identify opportunities for improvements

across existing systems. We are pleased to see venues

focusing on staff training, examining layout and access to

gaming rooms, and providing programs and other safe spaces

to support their patrons.

On a separate note, while acknowledging the significant

progress we have made towards minimising harm in pubs and

hotels across Queensland, there is more we can do to improve

safety for women in and around licensed venues.

When women feel unsafe in and around licensed venues due to

fear of harassment, assault, drink spiking, inadequate security,

and poorly lit surroundings, they may choose to stay home, leave

early, or avoid certain establishments altogether.

This not only impacts their social lives, but also has tangible

economic consequences for businesses. Reduced patronage

means lost revenue, fewer repeat customers, and a diminished

reputation for venues that fail to prioritise safety.

Ensuring that women feel secure isn’t just a social responsibility

– it’s a smart business move that benefits the entire community.

There are many ways venues can improve safety for women,

whether they are patrons or employees, including:

1. Training for all staff to recognise and respond to

harassment, drink spiking, and uncomfortable situations.

2. Ensuring entrances, exits, and outdoor areas are well lit,

installing CCTV in key locations, having clear sightlines

in the venue, and providing secure, staff-only areas.

3. Putting on extra security and floor staff during busy

periods.

4. Partnering with local transport providers to offer safe

travel options for patrons and staff, including well-lit

pickup zones and assistance if someone feels unsafe.

5. Establishing and promoting zero-tolerance policies on

harassment and discrimination with easy ways for both

patrons and employees to report incidents discreetly.

6. Offering designated safe spaces, free drink covers to

prevent spiking, and visible signage encouraging and

promoting a culture of respect. Consider initiatives like

“Ask for Angela” to discreetly assist patrons in distress.

We have plenty of resources available on the Business Queensland

website to help you make your venue safer for women.

We all have a role to play in ensuring women can go out and enjoy

themselves without feeling intimidated, threatened, or objectified.

REVIEW / 25

SUPERANNUATION

MANAGING

SUPER EFFECTIVELY

IQUI DIAM FUGITATEM QUIAM, CONSECE SEQUISCIMUS.

ALITAT REMPOREM VOLORER NATUSDANDIT, QUIA.

Helping employers get ahead of Payday Super

Important changes are being made to the way all employers

must pay their employees’ superannuation. If legislated, these

changes, known as the Payday Super reforms, are expected to

take effect on 1 July 2026.

With a federal election looming, it’s not yet known if these

reforms will become law. Nonetheless, Hostplus is getting in early

to help employers and members prepare.

The Payday Super reforms were first announced in the 2023

Federal Budget. These reforms will require employers to align

Super Guarantee (SG) payments with regular pay cycles.

This means all employers will need to pay SG contributions at

the same time as salary and wages, replacing the current system

which requires super to be paid at least quarterly.

Under the new requirements, contributions will need to reach

employees’ funds within seven calendar days of payday. New

employees will have an extended timeframe of 14 days.

The reforms aim to fix the non-payment and underpayment of

super. The government believes this will strengthen Australia’s

super system and improve retirement outcomes.

At the time of writing, Payday Super has not yet been legislated.

But Hostplus is on hand to help employers stay updated on

Payday Super. Visit hostplus.com.au/payday-super to find the

information you need, including any further changes as the

proposed law progresses through parliament.

How to ensure your super benefits are paid to the right person

Choosing who should receive your super benefits after you pass

away is an important step in setting up a super account. This

is called nominating a beneficiary, and there are two types of

nominations – binding and non-binding.

A valid binding nomination requires your super fund to pay your

super benefits to the person, or people, nominated (provided

they’re a beneficiary under super law). By completing a binding

nomination, a person can ensure their super benefits are paid in

accordance with their wishes once they pass away.

The person, or people, nominated would receive their remaining

super balance, including any insurance payments, based on

the percentage allocated to them in the nomination. A valid

beneficiary can be their spouse, child, any person who is

financially dependent, or their legal personal representative.

Binding nominations require a little more paperwork. At Hostplus,

they need to be renewed every three years and signed by

two witnesses. Members should also review their nomination

regularly to ensure it still reflects their wishes.

However, binding nominations give greater certainty over where

a death benefit is paid and can speed up the payment process.

Non-binding nominations are not legally binding. Other factors,

like your relationships and any financial dependants, will also be

considered.

Hostplus members can make binding nominations via a form.

Non-binding nominations can also be made through Member

Online.

You can find out more at hostplus.com.au/beneficiaries. Hostplus

has also created a toolkit for employers to provide more

information to their staff. You can find the beneficiaries toolkits

and more on the Employer Education Hub. Just visit hostplus.

com.au/supertoolkits.

Issued by Host-Plus Pty Limited ABN 79 008 634 704, as trustee for the

Hostplus Superannuation Fund ABN 68 657 495 890.

/ 26

REVIEW

LEGAL MATTERS/ CURT SCHATZ

RAISING THE BAR

LIQUOR ACCORDS AND SHAPING SAFER, SMARTER VENUES

All licensed venues in Queensland have a duty to minimise

harm (and the potential for harm) from alcohol abuse, misuse,

and violence. One way that licensees can demonstrate their

commitment to this is through joining or creating a liquor

accord.

A liquor accord will assist licensees in complying with their

obligations under the Liquor Act 1992 while contributing to the

safety of local businesses and the community.

Liquor accords are voluntary partnerships between licensed

venues and other community stakeholders, such as local

government bodies, businesses, community and welfare groups,

and police. At their core, liquor accords aim to reduce alcoholrelated

harm and promote the responsible service of alcohol.

While it is not compulsory to join or create a liquor accord,

becoming a member is a great way to proactively minimise harm

at your venue.

Liquor accords operate within defined regions such as

geographical boundaries, including local government areas,

police divisions or districts, or unique entertainment or

community precincts. Accordingly, they can tailor their initiatives

to address local concerns within that region. Typically, members

of a liquor accord will hold meetings to discuss emerging issues

and upcoming legislation changes, share best practices, and

implement strategies to enhance venue safety.

Liquor accords are usually open to any licensed venue within

their defined region, and there are resources available from the

Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation to assist licensees in

identifying their local liquor accord.

We would recommend contacting your local liquor accord about

their process for joining and any costs involved, as some liquor

accords may have a membership fee, while others may be free.

If you wish to join a liquor accord but there aren’t any in your

local area, you can establish one yourself.

The process of starting your own liquor accord is briefly

summarised below:

1. Define your liquor accord region based on geographical

boundaries.

2. Involve key stakeholders like other liquor licensees,

community groups, and authorities.

3. Fund the accord through membership fees, grants, or

sponsorships.

4. Establish a working party to manage the process and

coordinate activities, including a first committee.

5. Appoint a liquor accord coordinator for ongoing

communication and strategy monitoring.

6. Develop local solutions to address specific issues in your

area.

7. Formalise objectives with a liquor accord agreement for

members.

8. Promote the liquor accord to the community and

industry.

9. Develop an evaluation process with agreed standards

and indicators for the liquor accord to allow refinement

of strategies if required.

Whether you are a bar, nightclub, pub, or hotel, joining a liquor

accord or creating your own is a smart step towards sustainably

and responsibly managing your venue, including by assisting

you in complying with your obligations under the Liquor Act

1992 and contributing to the safety of local businesses and the

community in your area.

If you manage a liquor accord or are looking to join one or start

your own, we strongly encourage you to contact an experienced

professional for tailored advice.

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

assist you with this.

WHILE IT IS NOT COMPULSORY TO JOIN OR CREATE A

LIQUOR ACCORD, BECOMING A MEMBER IS A GREAT WAY

TO PROACTIVELY MINIMISE HARM AT YOUR VENUE.

REVIEW / 27

LET THE

GAMES BEGIN

THE STARTING GUN OF THE BRISBANE 2032 OLYMPIC

AND PARALYMPIC GAMES DELIVERY PLAN.

After years of ongoing debate, the Queensland

Government has released its plan for the 2032 Brisbane

Olympics, titled ‘Delivering 2032 and Beyond’.

As the outcome of a 100-day review, stakeholder

consultation, and community input, the 2032 Delivery

Plan promises new venues and upgraded sports

facilities as well as transport and tourism projects across

the state.

Queensland regions such as Brisbane, the Sunshine

Coast, Rockhampton, the Redlands, Mackay, the Gold

Coast, Townsville, Logan, Moreton Bay, and Toowoomba

are all set to host Olympics events.

While the spotlight of the 2032 Olympics will shine

brightly on Brisbane, the reported benefits from the

Paris Games extended far beyond the city borders.

The ripple effect was felt substantially, with regional

French cities benefiting from a significant influx of

international tourists.

With an Olympic Games comes immense opportunity,

sparking ongoing conversations on the impacts to

numerous industry sectors and the community.

From a tourism perspective, coinciding with the games

delivery announcement was the conclusion of the

Queensland Tourism’s community consultations and

promotion of their pending 20-year tourism growth plan.

The consultations ignited debate over funding, with the

notion of a bed tax to support infrastructure discussed

among other proposals.

Other industry development initiatives are also being

rolled out – for example, the Queensland Welcomes

You program. The initiative offers both face-to-face

workshops and online training programs tailored for

each of Queensland’s 13 unique tourism regions.

With the Olympics having a longstanding reputational

impact for years to come, a priority has been given

to helping those working in hotels, transport, tours,

attractions, restaurants, and bars to enhance the guest

experience and boost Queensland’s visitor economy.

Ongoing product development will also be a factor

outside of exceptional face-to-face customer service.

The recent launch of The Next-Gen Visitor Economy

Cooperative has seen universities and the industry

collaborating to supercharge the visitor economy

through smart technologies.

During the Olympic Games, hotels in particular

experience a significant surge in demand and pricing,

with the ‘Olympic Effect’ being more pronounced in

three and four-star hotels.

To ensure a sufficient supply of hotel rooms for

spectators and athletes, local councils throughout

Queensland are actively incentivising the development

and investment of new hotels.

Sunshine Coast Council has introduced the

Accommodation Hotel Incentive Measures to address

the region’s shortage of luxury accommodations ahead

of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Ipswich City Council has endorsed a new development

application fee discount to attract hotels and highquality

residential developments, and Bundaberg

Regional Council has approved the MVP Airport Hotel

development without imposing infrastructure costs

under its Projects of Regional Significance initiative.

An analysis of nightly rates across 265 hotels and

various star categories during the first week of the Paris

Olympic Games revealed a significant price increase

across all hotel classes, with accommodations across

the board marking up their usual rates.

The average price increase for hotels in Paris during

the 2024 Olympics, across all categories, is

approximately 92.4%.

In recent times, some athletes even opted for hotels over

the Olympic Village due to the conditions –hence the

USA Basketball team renting out the entirety of a Paris

hotel in the city centre with 800 rooms. Even after the

2032 Olympics are over, demand for hotels in Brisbane

and the surrounding areas is expected to continue.

/ 28

REVIEW

ACCOMMODATION/ TOM FITZGERALD

“WHILE THE SPOTLIGHT OF

THE 2032 OLYMPICS WILL SHINE

BRIGHTLY ON BRISBANE, THE

REPORTED BENEFITS FROM THE

PARIS GAMES EXTENDED FAR

BEYOND THE CITY BORDERS.

THE RIPPLE EFFECT WAS FELT

SUBSTANTIALLY, WITH REGIONAL

FRENCH CITIES BENEFITING

FROM A SIGNIFICANT INFLUX OF

INTERNATIONAL TOURISTS.”

Research based on previous games shows that in many

instances, when the games finish, new demand rises to

meet the supply of new hotel rooms.

With the Sydney 2000 Olympics, for example, hotels

were built to supply a 4.1% increase of 39,125 new rooms.

However, after the event in 2000 was over, demand for

hotel rooms only declined by 0.9%.

A similar situation is expected for Brisbane, the Gold

Coast, and their surrounding areas, where a popular

international tourism market already exists.

With Queensland being host to a plethora of highprofile

events such as the British & Irish Lions tour or

the Australia v England Ashes series, there are ongoing

opportunities to build upon the way visitors experience

Queensland.

According to the latest tourism figures released from

Tourism Research Australia for the year ending

December 2024, Queensland reached record levels

of overnight visitor expenditure from New Zealand,

Korea, India, and France, with China still the number

one international market. Overnight visitor expenditure

reached a record $35.3 billion and is poised for growth in

the lead-up to 2032.

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DEDUCTIONS

WHEN ARE THEY PERMITTED AND WHEN ARE THEY UNLAWFUL?

A deduction occurs when an employer removes money from an

employee’s pay before it is paid to them. Section 324 of the Fair

Work Act 2009 (‘the Act’) provides an employer may lawfully

deduct from an amount payable to an employee if:

• the deduction is principally for the employee’s benefit

• the deduction is authorised in writing by the employee

• the deduction is authorised by a modern award, enterprise

agreement, or Fair Work Commission order

• the deduction is authorised by or under a law of the

Commonwealth, State, Territory, or an order of a court

When are deductions lawful?

Modern awards often provide industry-specific occasions that

permit an employer to make a deduction. The Hospitality Industry

(General) Award 2020 (‘HIGA’) includes the following:

Failure to provide notice

Clause 41.1(b) of the HIGA outlines the minimum notice period

permanent employees are required to provide if they resign from

their position. If an employee fails to provide the required notice

period upon resignation, the HIGA allows an employer to make

a deduction. A deduction cannot occur if the employer agrees to

this shorter period of notice, if the employee is under 18 years of

age, and if a deduction is unreasonable in the circumstances.

If an employee fails to provide the required notice, the employer

may deduct an amount that is no more than one week’s wages

due to the employee. The National Employment Standards (NES)

state that an employee must be paid their untaken accrued

annual leave upon termination. Therefore, any deduction made

for incorrect notice cannot be made to untaken annual leave and

may only be from outstanding wages.

Deductions for breakages or cashiering underings

Clause 36 of the HIGA allows an employer to

deduct from wages due to an employee who has

engaged in wilful misconduct resulting in breakages

or cashiering underings. The HIGA states that

a deduction cannot occur if the breakage or undering was not a

case of wilful misconduct and if the employee is under 18 years

of age (unless the deduction has been agreed to in writing by

the employee’s parent or guardian). A deduction cannot be

unreasonable and may only be proportionate to the loss suffered

by the employer

For this deduction to be permissible, the behaviour must be

considered wilful misconduct.

Wilful misconduct occurs when an employee has deliberately

engaged in the conduct. The employer must undertake an

investigation to ensure the behaviour is proven to be deliberate. If

this investigation yields the allegation of wilful misconduct to be

substantiated on the balance of probabilities, an employer can

make a deduction from wages up to the value of the loss suffered.

Deductions for accommodation, meals, or both

Clause 37 of the HIGA outlines an employer’s ability to make

deductions from an employee’s wages for the provision of

accommodation and meals. The HIGA provides that:

• a deduction cannot be in excess of the amounts prescribed

in the Award

• a deduction cannot occur if the employee is under 18 years

of age, unless the deduction has been agreed to in writing

by the employee’s parent or guardian

• a deduction cannot be unreasonable in circumstances

• if an employer intends to make a deduction for meals only,

the employee must not live in accommodation provided by

the employer, the meal must be provided in the employee’s

normal working hours, and the employee must be informed

of the amount that will be deducted from their wage and

consent to the meal being provided

Clauses 37.5 and 37.6 of the HIGA outline the maximum amounts

that can be deducted from an employee’s wages based on their

specific arrangement. These amounts are determined by the living

situation, how many meals per day the employer provides, and the

age of the employee. The amount and frequency of the deduction

should be discussed with the employee prior to commencement

to ensure they are aware of the terms and also clearly captured

within the employment contract.

Supplying uniforms or other special clothing

Clause 26.6 of the HIGA states an employer’s obligations around

providing and/or reimbursing employees for special clothing. This

means any item of clothing an employer requires an employee to

wear, and includes uniforms or items worn for health and safety

purposes. Special clothing does not include shoes, hosiery, socks,

and any black or white neat attire (other than a dinner suit or

evening dress) that is not part of a uniform.

Upon commencement, an employee should be provided

and sign a receipt listing the costs and items of the property

supplied. An employer should also notify the employee that they

reserve the right to deduct the value stated on the receipt from

outstanding wages if not returned on termination of employment.

If employment ends and an employee fails to return the property,

an employer may make a deduction from any wages owing. This

deduction can occur provided that:

• the employee does not return the uniform/property

provided upon termination

• upon commencement, the employee was issued a receipt

that specifies the replacement cost of each item of uniform/

property, and if not returned on termination, the employer

may deduct the value stated from outstanding wages

• the deduction is equivalent to the value as stated on the

receipt, also allowing for fair wear and tear

/ 30

REVIEW

EMPLOYMENT RELATIONS/ TOM LESTER

• a deduction cannot occur where the item was damaged,

lost, or stolen not due to the fault of the employee

This clause does not allow for the employer to require payment

of a bond for property provided to an employee. Payment of a

bond or withholding an amount from an employee’s pay for this

purpose would be considered unlawful.

When are deductions lawful?

The Act contains restrictions on when an employer may make

deductions to an amount payable to an employee. Before a

deduction can be made, a written agreement must outline the

particulars, including the purpose, amount, frequency, and date

the deductions will occur. Any variations to the amount of a

deduction must be authorised by the employee and captured in

writing. Agreements of this nature must be genuine and can be

withdrawn in writing by an employee at any time.

Examples of permitted deductions include income tax deductions,

voluntary superannuation contributions, salary sacrifice

arrangements, garnishee orders, voluntary union fees, voluntary

health fund payments, and car parking facilities at a reduced rate.

Section 344(e) of the Act prohibits an employer from exerting

undue influence or pressure on an employee to agree to a

deduction. An employer attempting to coerce an employee into an

agreement for a deduction is unlawful and may result in a penalty.

When are deductions unlawful?

The Act further provides that deductions cannot be directly or

indirectly for the benefit of the employer or a party related to

the employer. When an employer makes an unlawful deduction,

they may be in breach of the Act and/or the HIGA and may

face financial penalties as a result. Further to this, intentionally

underpaying employees by way of unlawful deductions can

constitute wage theft, risking criminal prosecution under the Act.

Examples of unlawful deductions:

• cost for damage to employer assets

• cost of mobile telephone provided to the employee for

work-related use

• cost of training courses undertaken at the direction of the

employer

• withholding pay from an employee subject to an

investigation

• deposit or replacement cost for security access card/keys/

name badge/car parking card/locker fee; or

• bond or payment for uniform

This list is not exhaustive, and many situations will depend on the

individual facts of the matter.

Deductions from annual leave

The NES provides that when employment ends, any unused

accrued annual leave must be paid to the employee. The NES

does not have provisions that allow for deductions from an

employee’s unused annual leave balance.

A clause that permits a deduction from unused annual leave on

termination would have no effect, as that action would result in a

breach of the NES that could constitute wage theft.

Can I withhold wages or entitlements from an employee?

The Act outlines that an employer commits an offence if they

engage in conduct that results in the failure to pay an amount

due to an employee in full on or before the day when a required

amount is due to be paid. This means the action of withholding

wages or entitlements is unlawful, and under no circumstances

should an employer not pay an employee an amount due to them

within the required timeframe.

Overpaying an employee – can I deduct from their next pay?

Sometimes payroll errors occur, and you find that an employee

has accidentally been overpaid. It is unlawful for an employer to

automatically deduct the amount from the employee’s next pay.

Once you learn of an overpayment, you must inform the employee

as soon as possible. Under no circumstances can employers

deduct from the employee’s subsequent wages – rather, discuss

with the employee to come to an agreement on a repayment

arrangement. This arrangement should be captured in writing,

outlining the reason and amount for the overpayment, then how

this will be paid back by the employee. This includes the method,

amount, and frequency of each instalment that will be repaid.

It is important to note that the amount and frequency must

be reasonable. Requiring an employee to pay back a $1,000

overpayment in one or two instalments could be considered

inappropriate.

Deductions for visa costs

Employers are responsible for covering all costs related to

becoming a sponsor, as well as nominating and sponsoring

visa applicants. Any costs related to the sponsorship cannot be

deducted, withheld, or transferred to the sponsored visa holder.

Employers found to have exploited migrant workers may face

harsh penalties from the Australian Border Force and Fair Work

Ombudsman, including temporary or permanent exclusions from

employing migrant workers, being published on the prohibited

employer register, substantial fines, or imprisonment.

Further information

QHA members seeking more information or wishing

to discuss a specific employment relations matter are

encouraged to contact the employment relations team for a

confidential discussion by calling 07 3221 6999 or emailing

er@qha.org.au.

REVIEW / 31

A LITTLE HELP

FROM MY FRIENDS

VENUES THAT OFFER GAMBLING PRODUCTS SHOULD ESTABLISH LINKS

WITH THEIR LOCAL GAMBLING HELP SERVICES (GHS).

GHS are not anti-gambling, but rather can provide support for

patrons, staff, and venue management across a range of areas,

including providing free, confidential support and counselling for

individuals experiencing gambling-related harm. GHS can also

assist venues with gambling-related exclusions.

GHS are free services funded by the Queensland Government,

and are delivered through a network of community-based

service providers that serve different geographic regions across

the state:

• South East Queensland is served by Relationships

Australia

• Central Queensland, Central West, and Wide Bay are

served by UnitingCare Community

• Central Queensland and Central West are served by

Lifeline Darling Downs

• Townsville and North-West Queensland is served by

Centacare North Queensland

The Queensland Responsible Gambling Code of Practice

encourages gambling providers to establish effective

mechanisms to link with their local gambling-related

support services.

Hotels must ensure adequate liaison with customers and the

relevant local community groups on an as-required basis to

effectively resolve problem gambling issues and to receive

feedback and facilitate cooperation. Cooperation between

the hotel and the relevant local community groups, or nearest

available groups, has important advantages.

Not only does community networking make good business

sense, it also offers hotels the opportunity to understand local

community issues and promotes the hotel as an active and

responsible community partner.

There are also legal obligations under the Gaming Act 1992

(Qld) for gaming licensees and nominees with respect to patron

requests for assistance in relation to problem gambling. These

often result in requests or actions for self-exclusion or venueinitiated

exclusions. Has your venue established any links to their

local or regional Gambling Help Service?

If a customer approached staff at your venue wanting to

self-exclude, would they know what to do? Is there a trained

Customer Liaison Officer (CLO) – a go-to staff member available

during all hours of approved gaming?

Ideally, the hotel will ensure a senior/responsible staff member

performs the role of CLO to establish and continue open

communication channels with local gambling-related support

services. The role of the venue CLO centres around three key

responsibilities. Namely, to:

• provide appropriate information to assist patrons with

gambling-related problems

• support staff in providing assistance to those patrons

• provide assistance to staff with gambling-related

problems

To assist the CLO in meeting these responsibilities, an

established link to your local GHS provider can assist your

venue when:

• a patron brings a gambling problem to your attention

• a patron’s problem is affecting them and their family

members

• a patron wants to be excluded from your venue

• a patron wants to be excluded from other venues

The CLO should make contact with the local (nearest) GHS

provider to open up communication and establish a relationship

that will assist the gambling provider to deal with any problem

gambling issues that may arise in the future.

The CLO could contact the local GHS and invite them to

conduct a training session for the hotel staff. The training

session could focus on equipping gaming staff with information

and strategies to help customers with gambling problems,

together with conflict resolution, physical and mental signs of

stress, and stress management.

GHS also facilitate Safe Gambling Network (SGNet) meetings

across the state. SGNets bring together government, industry,

and the community to discuss issues around safe gambling

environments and initiatives.

/ 32

REVIEW

INDUSTRY ENGAGEMENT/ DAMIAN STEELE

CALENDAR

JUNE

2025.

RMLV

GAMBLING HARM

AWARENESS WEEK (GHAW)

IS BEING HELD FROM

21 JULY THIS YEAR. GHAW

IS AN ANNUAL INITIATIVE

TO INCREASE AWARENESS

OF GAMBLING HARM, SAFER

GAMBLING PRACTICES, AND

HELP THAT’S AVAILABLE

TO PEOPLE NEGATIVELY

AFFECTED BY GAMBLING.

RMLV

These events typically feature guest speakers and/or

expert panel discussions for industry and community, lived

experience stories, and networking opportunities. The OLGR

also works closely with Queensland’s gambling industry and

gambling help services to develop campaigns that focus on:

• early intervention and prevention

• consumer protection

• help services for people experiencing gambling harm

Lastly, Gambling Harm Awareness Week (GHAW) is being

held from 21 July this year. GHAW is an annual initiative

to increase awareness of gambling harm, safer gambling

practices, and help that’s available to people negatively

affected by gambling.

The QHA encourages all members to initiate contact with

their nearest GHS providers. Their details can be found on

the responsible gambling website:

www.responsiblegambling.qld.gov.au.

Why not extend an invitation to attend your next staff

meeting or to simply drop in for a cup of coffee? We all get

by with a little help from our friends sometimes.

CLO/GNT

CLO

CLO

BOOK TRAINING NOW

REVIEW / 33

TRAINING/ THERESE KELLY

CUSTOMER SERVICE

IN HOSPITALITY

MEETING INDUSTRY EXPECTATIONS THROUGH TARGETED TRAINING.

In the world of hospitality, the cornerstone of guest satisfaction

lies in customer service. As the frontline representatives of

a brand, staff members hold the power to shape a guest’s

experience through every interaction.

The hospitality industry not only anticipates high standards from

its employees, but also places increasing scrutiny on service

quality as a competitive differentiator.

In an era defined by heightened consumer expectations, the

hospitality industry faces the challenge of continually raising the

bar for customer service. Guests no longer merely seek a bed

for the night or a meal – they desire an experience that feels

personal, seamless, and remarkable.

Industry expectations

1. Guests appreciate recognition and personalised service

that conveys attention to detail. This could range

from remembering a guest’s name to recalling their

preferences from previous visits.

2. In a fast-paced environment, guests expect quick

response times. Whether it’s a request for room service

or assistance at the front desk, speed without sacrificing

quality is paramount.

3. Guests are more than transactions – they bring their

own stories and needs. Staff should be trained to engage

with compassion, particularly in scenarios that require

problem-solving or conflict resolution.

4. Across all properties within a brand, consistent service

delivery becomes an expectation. Guests walking into

a hotel or restaurant should experience uniform quality,

embodying the brand’s promise no matter which location

they visit.

5. Anticipating guest needs before they arise can lead to

memorable experiences. Training staff to recognise cues

that suggest what a guest might need enables a more

proactive approach.

Given these evolving expectations, proper training becomes

critical for staff readiness and effectiveness.

Essential training components

To equip staff with the necessary skills to deliver outstanding

customer service, a structured training program should

encompass the following components.

Service fundamentals training

This foundational training should cover the basics of excellent

customer service. Topics should include communication skills,

active listening, and protocols for standard interactions with

guests. Role-playing exercises can help staff practice these

skills in realistic scenarios, enhancing their confidence and

effectiveness.

Cultural competency

Given the diverse backgrounds of both guests and staff in

the hospitality industry, training should enhance cultural

understanding and competency. This includes awareness

of various customs, etiquette, and sensitivity towards the

preferences of different cultures to ensure every guest feels

respected and welcomed.

Conflict resolution and problem solving

Training staff to effectively resolve complaints and conflicts can

turn a negative experience into a positive one. This component

should include techniques for de-escalating tense situations,

employing empathy, and finding win-win solutions.

Technology and tools training

With the rise of digital services in hospitality – from mobile

check-ins to app-based ordering systems – staff need thorough

training on the technological tools they will be using. This not

only enhances the guest experience but also increases staff

efficiency.

Feedback and performance management

Regular feedback mechanisms should be established to ensure

employees are aware of their performance. This could involve

anonymous guest surveys or direct feedback from managers.

Training should include instruction on how to accept and utilise

feedback constructively, fostering a culture of continuous

improvement.

Empowerment initiatives

Staff should be encouraged to take ownership of their roles and

empowered to make decisions that enhance guest satisfaction.

Training should focus on instilling a sense of autonomy and

responsibility, enabling team members to act decisively in the

interest of the guest.

Continuous education

Lastly, customer service training should not be a one-time event.

The hospitality industry is ever evolving, driven by trends and

innovations. Continuous education through workshops, refresher

courses, or guest speakers can keep staff informed about

industry best practices.

In the hospitality sector, exceptional customer service is not

a luxury but a necessity. By implementing a comprehensive

training program that aligns with industry expectations, hotels,

restaurants, and other hospitality businesses can equip their

staff to deliver the experiences that modern guests demand.

Investing in training not only elevates service standards but

also fosters staff morale, ultimately leading to greater guest

satisfaction and loyalty. As we strive to create environments

that feel personal and memorable, dedicated focus on customer

service remains the benchmark of success within the industry.

/ 34

REVIEW

HOSPITALITY INSURANCE

SOLUTIONS

As your trusted insurance broker and consultant, our purpose is

to help you face tomorrow with confidence.

• By managing your risk.

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• To help your business and your community through every

challenge you face.

We are proud and active partners of the Queensland Hotels

Association supporting all of your business insurance needs

including property, liability, professional indemnity, cyber,

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CONNECT WITH US

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P: 0414 938 920

AJG.com/au/QHA

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

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

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

A FIRST

TIME FOR

EVERYTHING

WEST COAST

IPA

FULL METAL

JACKET WEST

COAST IPA

BLACKFLAG BREWING

LAUGHING GIN

DACELO DISTILLING

VODKA LEMON

LIME CRUSH

MATSO’S

RANGE BREWING

Consistency is hard to

achieve in any endeavour,

but Range Brewing

appear to realise such with

consummate ease. This brew

is yet another very enjoyable

West Coast IPA that’s crisp

yet punchy with flavours of

citrus and tropical fruits and

a hint of dank pine.

Rather than being sprayed

with a barrage of hefty hops,

this super refined West

Coast IPA delivers a series

of sniper shots, first a hit

of pineapple, followed by

some citrus and then some

earthy pine. Once riddled

with these flavours, a crisp

bitterness delivers the final

blow to your taste buds. It’s a

full-flavour ambush.

A bronze medal winner at

the 2023 Australian Gin

Awards, this flavoured gin’s

tasting notes promise ‘fancy

floral tones of green tea,

jasmine, and pear’. What

that translates into is a very

delicate, subtle gin, with – to

my palate – a slightly citrus

tone (more orange rind in

the bitterness than tea).

Dacelo ‘Laughing’ works as

well paired with ginger ale as

it does with a good-quality

tonic mixer.

Needless to say, I’ve been

spoilt with all the zingy

and refreshing RTDs

being released lately. The

increased competition in

this category has raised the

bar significantly, and so far,

Matso’s has come out on top.

Lemon and lime is a classic

flavour combination for a

reason. This is just so simple

and addictive, and stands

out from the rest thanks to

its actually real and natural

lemon-lime flavour.

/ 36

REVIEW

TOP DROP

CLARENCE

GINGER BEER

BRISBANE BREWING CO

THOR’S

HAMMER

WHISKEY

BARREL AGED

QUAD IPA

UPPERCUT

DDH WC IIPA

GREEN BEACON

BREWING CO

LIMONCELLO

WOLF LANE DISTILLERY

BLACKFLAG BREWING

This one had us hooked.

Named after the iconic

Clarence Corner Hotel,

where Brisbane Brewing

Co in Woolloongabba now

stands, this brew nods to the

city’s long history of ginger

beer, dating back to the

1870s. A crisp fizz, a whisper

of ginger, a hint of something

bold. It’s an easy sipper, but

delicious and great value.

I hope that they see the

humour in this review. Did I

enjoy this beer? My goodness,

I loved it. But I tell you what, I

understand why they called it

Thor's hammer. After indulging

in this on my own, I felt like

Thor had beaten the crap out

of me with it. It lures you in

with aromas of honey and

malt and then you inhale these

fumes from the whiskey barrel

it has been aged in, wow.

Then you have a few sips and

there’s spice and flavours of

apricot marmalade on toast,

and before you know it, your

cheeks are red, your mind

is numb and you’re giggling

incessantly on a park bench

somewhere.

Starved of some creative

inspiration I reached for this

and was immediately on a

roll. My brain and tastebuds

awash with resinous pine

and a squeeze of citrus.

Ideas were coming as thick

and fast as the uppercuts

delivered by Green Beacon

with every mouthfeel. This

double dry-hopped West

Coast IPA delivers a punch.

However, getting beaten up

has never been so much fun.

And it clearly didn’t damage

my brain cells.

One thing about Wolf Lane’s

spirits is that they’re always

just so fragrant, fresh,

and summery. This one is

certainly no exception. While

good to sip, this is definitely

a new take on a traditional

limoncello, so I preferred it

as a mixer, especially with

soda water and a dash of

prosecco, as suggested on

the bottle.

REVIEW /37

BEHIND

THE

ROLLING OUT THE

GINGER CARPET

Introducing Heads of Noosa’s new Alcoholic

Ginger Beer – a refreshing, balanced brew infused

with local Buderim Ginger to further enhance that

natural kick of ginger spice.

Evened out with the perfect amount of sweetness

and subtle notes of lemon and lime, it’s an

anywhere, anytime kind of refresher.

All patrons need to do is gently roll the drop in

order to stir the authentic and thirst-quenching

flavour of real ginger juice.

TIS THE SAISON!

QUINTESSENTIALLY

CAIRNS

Handcrafted in paradise, where the Great

Barrier Reef meets the Tablelands of Far North

Queensland, Wolf Lane have perfectly balanced

the zing, zest, and sweetness to give you an

easy-drinking lemon liqueur.

One sip of their Limoncello, and your patrons

will be transported to a Euro summer with

sea and sunshine abound. This liqueur is best

served chilled to sip, with a favourite soda, or as

a refreshing summer spritz.

Limoncello Spritz

- 60ml limoncello

- soda water

- prosecco

Method

Add Limoncello into a tall glass and fill

with ice. Top with soda water and a dash of

prosecco and garnish with a lemon wedge.

The team at Slipstream Brewing can do no wrong! After

an extremely impressive trophy haul at the recent 2025

Royal Queensland Beer Awards, the brewing team, led by the amazing

Gavin Croft, even got their hands on the coveted Grand Champion Beer,

with their much-loved Classic Saison taking out the award.

These prestigious awards celebrate excellence in brewing and present

brewers from all over Australia with the opportunity to showcase their

passion in front of a large panel of experts.

The beers are assessed blindly and judged purely on flavour, aroma,

mouthfeel, and the beer’s alignment with the style guidelines, meaning

it is completely based on technical expertise and merit. This makes

Slipstream Brewing’s haul even more impressive, as they were the

recipients of 28 medals, which included them being named the grand

champion in five separate categories!

“These wins are a massive testament to Gavin and the whole brewing

team, who put their heart and soul into making beers of outstanding

quality for our customers to enjoy.”

There were over 530 entries from 67 Australian breweries, with trophies

being presented to the best in class across different beer styles.

Slipstream Brewing’s impressive medal haul included 10 gold, 11 silver,

and two bronze to accompany their five grand champion finishes!

If you’re ever in doubt about where to go for your next beverage, rest

assured you are in safe hands and good company when visiting Deale,

Elisa, and the team at Slipstream Brewery at their Yeerongpilly Bar and

Kitchen. There’s also their Sunshine Coast venue – Slipstream Social

House – where you can treat yourself to their Saison, Scooter American

Red, or many more of their medal-winning beers.

/ 38

REVIEW

RAISE A GLASS AT

THE DAINTREE BAR

& LOUNGE

Say the words ‘hotel bar’, and the first image that

will come to mind is a place that’s stale. Ordinary.

Perfunctory. A stop for a quick drink while you’re

waiting for your taxi, which will eventually whisk you

away to better venues with better ambience.

But not the Daintree Bar. Tucked into the resort lobby

with views of glowing lagoons and a drinks list that

tells a story, this hotel bar is a destination in its own

right. Besides being an atmospheric place to gather,

the Daintree Bar’s signature offerings pay homage to

the region, giving visitors a sense of place that travels

further than present-day Port Douglas.

A selection of cocktails made with FNQ Rum Co’s

sugar cane spirits, bottled and distilled in the nearby

Atherton Tablelands, along with a monthly Sugar

Cane Rum masterclass, serves as a nod to the farmers

that built the foundations of the region’s agricultural

economy in the early 20th century.

More than just local sugar cane rum, the Daintree

Bar’s wider offerings are distinctly Australian.

Alongside indisputable international classics, the

majority of the spirit bottles that line the bar represent

producers from all corners of the country – gin

distilled in Port Douglas, vodka from Kangaroo Island,

and whisky made in Melbourne.

These make their way into a wider menu of inventive

cocktails (think smoky Sazeracs and lavender-laden

sours) or, for the more spirit-curious, a range of

informative tasting flights. And let’s not forget about

the menu of elevated bar nibbles that serve as the

perfect accompaniment to that second round.

RE-IN-

CAN

-ATION

Lion’s Stone & Wood

brand, along with its

supply chain partners Visy, Novelis, and Rio Tinto, have announced

a breakthrough packaging initiative that uses low carbon primary

aluminium and contains on average 83% recycled aluminium in its

beverage cans.

The pilot initiative, named Re-In-Can-Ation, brings together

key players across the aluminium value chain to create a more

sustainable beverage can that is estimated to deliver a 59%

reduction in carbon emissions compared to Stone & Wood’s

existing cans.

The 18-month trial will see 15 million of these cans enter

the market and is estimated to be the equivalent of reducing

carbon emissions by 1,235 tonnes when compared to the

equivalent quantity of Stone & Wood’s existing cans.

Lion’s sustainability director, Justin Merrell, said this partnership shows

what’s possible when industry leaders unite behind a common goal.

“In this project, we’re demonstrating the potential to reduce

carbon emissions and conserve resources with the containers our

consumers recycle.

“It’s proof that when the full value chain collaborates, we see a

stronger circular economy and great benefit to the environment.

Only two-thirds of Australia’s aluminium cans are currently recycled,

so there is still work to do.”

Stone & Wood’s

specially marked

Re-In-Can-Ation cans

are now available

on shelves across

Australia.

KING OF

THE AWARDS

Shop! Australia & New Zealand recently held the industry’s

major annual award contest, with Lion being exceptionally proud to announce

that they were the recipient of five awards.

The annual awards celebrate the absolute best of the best in the retail

marketing industry, where they recognise excellence in shopper marketing

and retail experience across 26 categories.

Lion achieved a fantastic result across three different categories – Occasion

Based, Shopper Campaign, and Liquor & Digital, taking home a gold, three

silvers, and a bronze.

This is an outstanding outcome and a testimony to Lion’s success in engaging

customers and creating captivating retail experiences.

REVIEW /39

THE BREWING OF A

COMMUNITY

REACHING 20 YEARS AS AN ESTABLISHMENT IS A SIGN OF HARD WORK, RESILIENCE, AND

SUCCESS, NO MATTER THE WAY YOU LOOK AT IT.

Brisbane Brewing Co – now Brisbane’s longest-running

independent brewery – has just notched that milestone, on

Saturday, 29 March to be precise. It started with a love for good

beer that began all the way back in the UK, where owners

Grant and Michelle Clark were living abroad and sharing their

passion for travel, adventure, and good beer.

Inspired by the fascinating spectacle performed at European

brewpubs, where they quite literally brew the beer on-site

before the eyes of their thirsty customers, Grant and Michelle

knew that this was an experience worth sharing with the

rest of the world and decided to bring it back with them to

down under.

The idea was moulded and finally came to life, spilling its liquid

gold into the schooner glasses of Grant and Michelle’s first

venue nestled in the CBD of Brisbane. After three successful

years, the building that housed the brewhouse was sold,

and the search was on to find the perfect pub to continue

producing, growing, and most importantly, sharing their

passion with the supportive community of Brisbane.

“Our brewery and pub are made for Brisbane locals, their

friends, family, and visitors. Whether you are a frequenter or it’s

your first time in our pub, you will be treated as one of us.”

Fast-forward to 2010, and the couple landed in Woolloongabba

– and as they fittingly say, ‘never looked back’. The production

side of the business then moved to West End in 2015 to allow

space for brewing more of what was fast becoming one of

Brisbane’s favourite brews.

Since then, the evolution has been non-stop.

“We renovated the Woolloongabba pub, unified our brand as

Brisbane Brewing Co, and in 2021, got our first canned beers

onto shelves.”

Not content with only brewing some of Brisbane’s finest beers,

Grant and Michelle decided to fire up the still and release their

highly successful Reservoir Spirits range – premium smallbatch

vodka and gin crafted right in the brewery at West End.

“Our Reservoir Vodka is clean, crisp, and five times distilled,

while our Reservoir Gin brings tropical fruits and warming

spices together in a London Dry style.”

The brand has not only grown, but the support and the demand

for fresh and independent beer has been ever-present, which is

something Brisbane Brewing cherishes and values highly.

“Our customers are what makes us who we are and have kept

us thriving throughout the years.”

/ 40

REVIEW

A CRAFTY BUNCH/ BRISBANE BREWING C0

Brisbane Brewing is continuously putting in the hard yards,

perfecting their recipes and keeping a close eye on quality

and community. Whether it is through supporting other

local breweries, hosting and sponsoring local events, or

collaborating with new partners, Brisbane Brewing believes a

rising tide lifts all boats – an ode to their core values.

“It hasn’t always been easy – especially in recent years with the

challenges that have faced the industry – but we’re still here,

pouring pints and raising glasses to good beer and great mates.

“HERE’S TO 20 YEARS OF

DOING WHAT WE LOVE – AND TO

PLENTY MORE AHEAD!”

Grant and Michelle’s endless energy and refusal to stop

creating, crafting, and producing top-notch brews and

spirits tells me that we can already start planning the 40th

anniversary of Brisbane Brewing. With the release and success

of their new Clarence Ginger Beer and Hard Lemonade, they

have once again proved that a refreshing, no-nonsense drink

never goes out of style!

REVIEW / 41


CLARENCE GINGER BEER

Ginger with a hint of clove and lemon to satisfy

the afternoon taste buds… An instant hit

that acts as an excellent alternative for those

wishing to mix things up or for those who

simply don’t drink beer.

The name ‘Clarence’ pays homage to the

brewery’s history, as Brisbane Brewing serves

its patrons out of a historic pub that was once

called The Clarence – first built in 1863 and

then completely rebuilt in 1889.

Despite attempts to uncover the reasons

behind its naming (which included the hiring

of a historian), a definite answer was never

found, but sometimes the mystery itself

becomes a part of the story! Clarence Ginger

Beer is a celebration of both the building’s

iconic history and Brisbane’s long-standing

tradition of ginger beer production.

HARD LEMONADE

So how do you capture the essence

of summer in a can, you may ask?

A crisp, refreshing blend of lemon

combined with subtle touches of

orange and grapefruit is how. The

idea was hatched after noticing that

not every customer is a beer drinker

– some simply don’t drink the hoppy

beverage, and some just want to

broaden their horizons.

How did Brisbane Brewing stand out

in the hard lemonade market? 48

calories, seven grams of carbs, and

only 5.8 grams of sugar is how. It’s

a perfect alternative for those who

crave that hard lemon flavour but

don’t want to sacrifice all of those

hours in the gym.

With a bright, refreshing, and fun

pattern on the can, this is actually a

brew that tastes as good as it looks.

When you see it, you instantly know

it’s the perfect drink for kicking back

on a sunny day.

But hey, maybe you are a peach and

mango iced tea type of person, or

maybe something along the lines

of a lemon-lime bitter and vodka, or

the classic nostalgic flavour that is

a raspberry lemonade… Either way,

all of these flavours are exclusively

available on tap online and in the

venues of Brisbane Brewing.

/ 42

REVIEW


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EVERYBODY LOVES

AN UNDERDOG

INSPIRED BY THOSE WHO LIVE AND BREATHE THE AUSSIE COUNTRYSIDE, TRAVLA IS ALL

ABOUT CELEBRATING PROUD, HARD-WORKING, DOWN-TO-EARTH PEOPLE.

/ 44

REVIEW

A CRAFTY BUNCH/ TRAVLA

BORN OUT OF SIMPLICITY, MATESHIP, AND STAYING TRUE

TO THEIR ROOTS, THEY SET OUT TO DO SOMETHING

PRETTY SIMPLE, REALLY – CREATE AN AUSSIE BEER THAT

GENUINELY REPRESENTS THE COUNTRY.

REVIEW / 45

The humble lager brand was founded in 2022 by none other

than Travis Fimmel (you may recognise the Aussie actor from

a certain beloved series about Vikings) and a couple of his

farmboy mates.

Born out of simplicity, mateship, and staying true to their

roots, they set out to do something pretty simple, really –

create an Aussie beer that genuinely represents the country.

National marketing manager, Georgie Hatfield, said this

stemmed from an understanding that a lot of the beers

people drink in Australia aren’t really Aussie.

“They might be made here, but many aren’t actually owned

by Australian companies, and a lot of them don’t even use

local ingredients. A lot of people drink ‘Australian’ beers

thinking they’re supporting the country, but most of the time

that money ends up going overseas.

“So when we started, it was all about creating an

independent brand, having some fun, representing real

Aussies, and using ingredients grown here to create a recipe

that made sense for the Australian palate.

“The journey has been awesome so far. The beer industry

is highly competitive, but we’ve found that people are really

receptive to the message and the brand – especially the

authenticity of it. Just like us, they’re keen to get out there

and have a good time with it.

“We are, however, still pretty underdog compared to the

whole market, so there’s plenty of work to do. We generally

just like to do our own thing and trust that the story behind

our company will be enough to move us forward – and so far,

so good!” she said.

travla’s Australian lager doesn’t shout, but it certainly knows

when to speak. Brewed to be clean, crisp, and sessionable,

the beer is something patrons can enjoy on the beach, at the

pub, at a barbeque, or out in the bush. It’s also super low in

carbs and calories, which definitely doesn't hurt.

Georgie said the drop has a strong focus on balance and

doesn’t rely on gimmicks – just good-quality Aussie ingredients.

“We use a pale malt, malted from Australian-grown barley.

Like all good lagers, yeast plays a starring role, so we

selected a house strain that best exhibits the characteristics

of the classic lagers we grew up with.

“In terms of hops, we use two varietals – Cluster, which is

more traditional and offers a smooth, rounded bitterness, and

a light sprinkle of Melba in the whirlpool, which is a newer

hop that offers another dimension of subtle flavour and

freshness,” she said.

Many of the down-to-earth people behind travla, including

Travis himself, grew up as farmers in the Australian

countryside, and are still very much connected to the outback.

/ 46

REVIEW


The brand clearly pays tribute to this landscape – not to

mention the flanno-wearing, early-rising, dirt-under-thenails,

say-hi-to-your-neighbour kind of people that live

there – in everything they do, from their brand visuals to

the way they show up in the community.

Georgie said it felt right to incorporate the Aussie country

life into travla’s core identity, because they believe there’s

just something special about its places, people, colours,

and heritage.

“You really feel those Australian values that we’re all proud

of when you’re out there in country communities. For us,

it’s just where we grew up, so we’ve always been drawn

to the beauty and simplicity of rural Australia. It’s not just

about the landscape – it’s about the people who keep this

country running.

“We can’t necessarily speak for other countries, but people

really seem to care about supporting our own in Australia.

One of our key partners is a not-for-profit called Farm

Angels. Working with them, you see pretty quickly that

there’s a strong foundation in all Australians to support

and celebrate local farmers.

“We recognise that they’re the backbone of our

communities, and it’s a part of our identity as Australians

to reward hard work and look after each other. We

also know our country makes incredible produce, and

understand how lucky we are to access the high-quality

land and agricultural heritage. We feel compelled to take

pride and ownership in that,” she said.

As you can probably guess, the key driver behind travla’s

success is their genuine connection to the community.

Not only does the brand have little fun, but they’re also

committed to just simply showing up – on the road, at

festivals, and in venues.

In fact, Georgie said they’ve got a massive soft spot for

country pubs.

“They’re more than just watering holes – they’re history

keepers, cultural landmarks, and meeting points where you

can check in on each other. The one that comes to mind

first is The Caledonian in Echuca, Victoria. They’re like our

home base whenever we’re back in the heartland. Dave,

the owner, is an absolute legend. He has supported our

beer from the very start.

“We travel to and do events at so many country pubs,

so it does feel a bit unfair to call out just a few – they’re

all amazing. It’s always such a grounding experience to

walk into one and feel the soul of that town and its people

radiating out at you.

“It’s true that country people are some of the hardest to

sell to. They’re practical, they’ve learned to be sceptical,

they care about quality, and they know how to sniff out BS,

so even when you’re from the country too, it can take just a

little more to prove you’re the real deal to them.

“WE’RE ROUGH AND COUNTRY,

BUT WE’RE ALSO QUALITY AND

CONSIDERED. WE’RE SMALL-TOWN

FOLK, BUT WE KNOW HOW TO SPEAK

TO THE WHOLE COUNTRY. REALLY,

THE FACES OF TRAVLA REPRESENT

THE MAKEUP OF HOW WE

UNDERSTAND AUSTRALIA."

REVIEW / 47


“We knew that going in, but we love the challenge.

Getting to interact with publicans face-to-face is really

just what our brand is all about. We don’t yell and

scream from mountaintops – we look people in the eyes

and shake hands. That’s just how we think most Aussies

grew up doing business, and we love it,” she said.

travla is known for supporting all sorts of initiatives

across the country, but one that hits very close to home

for them is Flanno For A Farmer Day – a yearly initiative

by Farm Angels, who support Australian farmers when

they’re going through tough times caused by droughts,

floods, plagues, and mental health issues.

This August, travla hopes to support over 50 pubs

to bring Flanno For A Farmer to life. Last year, QHA

members, including The Plough Inn and Osbourne Hotel,

really got their customers and staff behind the initiative

by donning flannos and raising awareness.

While travla certainly seems like an ambassador-led

brand with a lot of famous faces at the helm, it’s clear

from talking with them that they’re just a bunch of

people from around Australia who care about beer and

making something that belongs to the country.

Georgie said travla’s ambassadors – including Travis,

Andy Allen, Dylan Alcott, and Matt Baker – all represent

different elements of the same community.

“We’re rough and country, but we’re also quality and

considered. We’re small-town folk, but we know how to

speak to the whole country. Really, the faces of travla

represent how we understand Australia. Australians are

not a monolith, and that’s what makes this so much fun.

“We like to get our hands dirty and form genuine

relationships, like you would in the country. It’s different

from a social media campaign, but it gives us a chance

to really tailor experiences to the individual and share

our story in a way that’s real. It generates loyalty, and the

legends we share a lot of these grassroots moments with

go out there and sell it for us.

“Mid-strength lagers and low-carb beers are seeing an

uptick right now, which is great for us. But we just do

our own thing and have fun with it. We believe in our

story and our mission to become a household Australian

brand,” she said.

/ 48

REVIEW

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

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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

DESIGN &

RENOVATION

design &

renovation

TO BE SUCCESSFUL IN HOSPITALITY, ONE NEEDS TO FIND

INSPIRATION TO TRY NEW THINGS, ADAPT TO TRENDS, STAY

RELEVANT, STAND OUT FROM THE REST, AND ELEVATE SPACES

TO MEET AND EXCEED THE EXPECTATIONS OF THE INDUSTRY.

For venues, design and renovation not only require tonnes

of planning, money, effort, time, and paperwork, but also a

deep understanding of the local community and their unique

requirements, which often differ for each region in Queensland.

More often than not, the most successful and memorable

renovations in our industry are completed by pubs and hotels

that reinvent existing trends, take risks, and do something just

that little bit different.

Of course, none of this would be possible without the skills,

insider knowledge, and resources of the builders and architects

who eagerly work alongside our venues, helping managers

elevate their services, stay ahead of the curve, and navigate

what can be a daunting process.

Today, we shine a spotlight on these businesses, and hope

you can be inspired by their expertise, creativity, and all the

amazing work they do in our industry.

/ 52 REVIEW

SHOWCASE/ ALTIS ARCHITECTURE

CREATING IMPACT

NAMED AFTER A HISTORICAL TERM MEANING

'SANCTUARY', ALTIS ARCHITECTURE SEEKS TO RAISE

HOSPITALITY SPACES ABOVE THE CONVENTIONAL.

Associate at the practice, Katherine Herod, takes

us through how they’ve transformed the landscape

of hospitality design to ensure the best aesthetic,

functional, and financial outcomes possible are

achieved by their clients.

HOSPITALITY DESIGN EXPERTS

ARCHITECTURE

INTERIOR DESIGN

MASTER PLANNING

All places have the potential to become thriving

destinations, and we have the experience, drive, and

talent to make it happen. From hospitality venues to retail

precincts, we help to revitalise and transform businesses

into a place that is sought after and profitable.

Our architecture serves not only the practical requirements

of the brief, but also assumes a responsibility to the wider

community – a balance between restraint and indulgence,

candour and artistic expression. Our concepts embed layers

of richness and complexity that come from embracing the

environmental opportunities of the site, which means we’re

able to create a unique design solution for each project.

We encourage an emotional and personal connection by

creating memorable, vibrant spaces that communities are

proud of. Through thoughtful design and space planning,

we make places relevant and encourage families, couples,

and singles – both young and old – to to feel drawn to

somewhere they can enjoy, celebrate, and share with others.

Marsden Brewhouse – winner of the 2019 Annual

Hospitality Awards For Excellence - Best New/

Redeveloped Metropolitan Venue

This award-winning project is a welcome addition to the

rapidly growing Greater Western Sydney. We designed

the spaces around the concept of a typical village town,

including a marketplace, saloon, tavern, parlour, and piazza.

Each space has a thoughtful design narrative, which has

informed it's functionality and aesthetic. The diverse project

includes an open marketplace pavilion for diners, social

seating zones, and a contemporary cafe and lounge area

with an alfresco sports bar that spills out onto a spacious

southern deck. We have further designed a fully functional

onsite bespoke brewery offering six types of craft beers, a

tasting station, and brewing facilities.

At Altis Architecture, we have the experience and

knowledge to create spaces that work, and we always tailor

our approach with the community and client in mind.

We act as trusted advisors right from the inception of

the project, and work to deliver venues that function well

financially, aesthetically, and operationally, drawing on years

of successful, tried-and-tested projects. We would love to

speak to you about your next build.

OUR OFFICES

GOLD COAST

NEWCASTLE

SYDNEY

ALTISARCHITECTURE.COM

TELLING

A STORY

CAYAS + WARD ARE LEADING ARCHITECTS WHO’VE WORKED

ON PROJECTS IN THE HOSPITALITY SECTOR FOR OVER 20 YEARS

– BUT MORE THAN THAT, THEY ADORE WHAT THEY DO, AND ARE

COMMITTED TO SEEING VENUES FLOURISH.

From our chat with director Jeremy Ward, it’s clear that each

of the firm’s designs are carefully crafted with a whole lot of

passion, and result in meaningful and inclusive spaces that

appeal to the entire community.

Here’s what he had to say about the evolution of the industry

and the pride they take in their work.

Con Cayas and I never set out to run a hospitality design firm –

we just really loved that work, because there’s something special

about creating pieces of design and architecture that we can

see people enjoy after the fact. You can't do that with houses or

hospitals or law courts. With a lot of architecture, you design it,

pass it on, and that’s it.

The work we do now is for the public, so everyone gets to

thoroughly enjoy the space and what we do. All of our friends and

families go to the venues we design, which is just fantastic. It’s a

very rewarding sector to work in, not to mention extremely varied.

Sometimes we work on heritage-listed pubs, such as Breakfast

Creek Hotel, Royal Exchange Hotel, and Albion Hotel, which

was built in the 1890s. These are these seriously old buildings

that hold a lot of memories, so we’re always really careful. Then

there are the brand-new buildings we’ve worked on, like The

Brook Hotel and The Fairfield Tavern, which is one we’re doing

up in Townsville at the moment.

We’re designing venues constantly, so we use our experience to

consider what a pub could be in ten years’ time and design that

now. Of course, a growing area in hospitality

is accommodation, so we’re

doing a lot of short-term

options nowadays. It

seems to be something

that was forgotten for

many decades, but then

publicans realised

the return on their

investment

vastly outweighs

pretty much everything

except gaming.

/ 54

REVIEW

SHOWCASE/ CONTRIBUTORS CAYAS + WARD

From an interior design perspective, we just have so much fun.

For many years, we didn't have any interior designers, but about

eight years ago we really saw the value in it, so now a third of our

business is interior design in the hospitality space. It’s such an

incredibly important part of pubs and what we do.

FOR US, IT’S ALL ABOUT BEING REAL.

THAT’S WHERE WE LIKE TO SET

OURSELVES APART, BECAUSE WE WANT

TO MAKE SURE THAT, WHERE POSSIBLE,

WE USE LOCAL PRODUCTS, TRADES,

AND ARTISTS.

Usually, interior designers are kept at an arm’s length away from

the process, but at Cayas + Ward, everyone here is very much on

the same team. The interior designers are sometimes working on

the architecture, and the architects are sometimes working on the

interior design. It’s a collaborative process, which is great because

we end up with unique designs every time.

Over the years, we’ve grown a really good repeat base of clients

who keep coming back because we just know what we’re doing.

We’ve been working in this space for so long, so we know what it

takes to design a pub that works aesthetically and functionally.

Being on-trend is great, and an important part of what we do,

but at the end of the day the venue has to work. These are

businesses, and they need to make money. The functional layout

of a pub impacts that massively.

Our clients appreciate our intuition with the overall master

planning of a space, whether it’s offerings, staffing numbers, or the

movement of ice and kegs from the truck to the bar. It’s not only

workplace health and safety, but it’s also simple efficiency and

ergonomics. Does a staff member have to take two steps when

they could take one? We’ve developed bars and done so many

venues, so we’ve got a really good handle on what works and

what doesn’t, down to the millimetre. It all adds up.

We’re purely Queensland-based at Cayas + Ward, but we also

do jobs all over Australia, so we’re used to adapting and learning

the target demographic of different regions. Obviously, a pub

that works in south east Queensland is not the same sort of pub

that works on the northern beaches of Sydney or in the CBD of

Melbourne or Perth.

We learn from things other states are doing a little differently as

well. I think a prime example of that is gaming rooms in New

South Wales. They’re a different beast, as they’re fully outdoors

with a greater focus on natural light and earthy materials, so

we’ve been blending that into our Queensland gaming room

designs. It’s proven to be really popular – those rooms just go

gangbusters on launch.

For us, it’s all about being real. That’s where we like to set

ourselves apart, because we want to make sure that, where

possible, we use local products, trades, and artists. All the

materials we use are authentic too. Patrons are pretty cluey

now – they expect a lot if they’re going to go out and spend

money somewhere.

Venues need to look like they have effort, care, and stories behind

them, so we show a real commitment to the outcome and peel

back the layers of older buildings where we can to expose their

history. Our primary strength lies in our service and agility for

venues, as our clients.

Cayas + Ward

Suite 2, 19-25 Musk Avenue, Kelvin Grove

07 3356 6100

REVIEW / 55

SHOWCASE/ ASHLEY COOPER

LEADING

THE WAY

IN THE WORLD OF VENUE DESIGN AND RENOVATION, ASHLEY

COOPER CONSTRUCTION NEEDS NO INTRODUCTION.

Underlined by craftsmanship, quality, and communication,

the multi-award-winning construction company has been

making venues’ dreams come true since 2014, and has built

quite the reputation after working on projects all over the

state, including Ashmore Tavern, Calamvale Hotel, Boardwalk

Tavern, Redland Bay Hotel, Mermaid Beach Tavern, The

Queens Hotel Gladstone, Centenary Tavern, and many more.

This edition, we sat down with the head of commercial,

Aleks Mathewson, to talk about what makes the business

stand out in such a perpetually advancing industry.

Originally, Ashley Cooper started as a commercial carpentry

company. We contracted to a lot of the bigger builders, but then

our managing director, Luke Ashley-Cooper, had the epiphany

that he could do things a little differently.

That is when we made the transition to a principal contractor and

completed projects ourselves. The emphasis we’ve always had is

that we want to do the right thing and get the best result for our

client, even if it’s to our detriment.

Today, we employ 50 people and complete works throughout

northern New South Wales and up to as far as Mount Isa. We've

worked on great projects and venues, and have been fortunate

enough to be recognised with a myriad of industry awards,

including Master Builders Housing & Construction Awards.

We’ve definitely got some runs on the board, and are recognised

as a leading hospitality builder. What sets us apart is our

understanding of client needs and our ability to coordinate and

work in live environments to ensure that venues are impacted the

least while we’re completing a project. We’re also really flexible

– we’ll work around any issue, and have built a very experienced

team that's able to deliver a complex array of projects.

This, coupled with our ability to leverage our relationships with

consultants, ensures we always provide great results.

We really do care, which is especially important when it comes

to hospitality projects. Venues are looking to be more like

destinations these days, and general managers are looking for

longevity and to diversify their offerings, with family-friendly

environments becoming a big thing. Hospitality is such an everevolving

industry, so it requires a lot of effort to get right.

WE'VE WORKED ON GREAT

PROJECTS AND VENUES, AND HAVE

BEEN FORTUNATE ENOUGH TO BE

RECOGNISED WITH A MYRIAD OF

INDUSTRY AWARDS...

As we head towards the Brisbane 2032 Olympics, venues

are starting to set themselves up to capitalise on the influx of

people and invest in projects with longevity. I think it’s especially

important to get the wheels in motion now, before the bigger

projects ramp up, because eventually we’re going to see a

shortage of skilled labour.

We value our work at Ashey Cooper, and more importantly, we

care for our clients and enjoy what we do.

/ 56 REVIEW

We specialise in

GUARANTEED MAXIMUM PRICE (GMP)

DESIGN & CONSTRUCT (D&C)

TENDERED (TRADITIONAL)

ashleycooper.com

07 3142 5915 | enquiries@ashleycooper.com

Unit 2/3-5 Deakin St, Brendale QLD 4500

QBCC Licence No: 1275420

INSPIRE, DESIGN,

DELIVER

ESTABLISHED IN 2000, BERGSTROM ARCHITECTS HAVE BEEN DESIGNING AND

DELIVERING PUBS FOR 25 YEARS.

Managing director Tom Bergstrom

takes us through how they combine

architectural planning that is

functional and efficient with interior

design that is warm, natural, and

timeless.

Based in Sydney, we have projects all

around New South Wales, Queensland,

Western Australia, South Australia, and

the Northern Territory, with our most

recent significant projects including Hotel

Gosford on the Central Coast of New

South Wales, Willowdale Hotel in south

west Sydney, and the Flagstone Tavern in

the south of Brisbane.

We believe these are the features that

every contemporary pub should take into

consideration:

An all-weather, year-round sunroom

Outdoor areas are high on the list for any

venue. At Bergstrom Architects, we work

to design outdoor rooms that are flexible

and can be opened or closed depending

on the weather, the season, or if you

need to protect the neighbours from

noise without closing off an area of your

venue. Willowdale and Hotel Gosford

feature courtyards on small urban sites.

The hearth is the heart of the home

For a pub, a great fireplace always creates

atmosphere and a warm, homely feeling

that everyone loves. It’s a simple feature,

but if positioned well, it will be a focal

point for any venue.

Sports entertainment today means the

bigger the screen, the better

Venues are attracting crowds for big

sporting events with large-format LED

screens. It’s not just about having the

biggest screen in the suburb either. Does

the venue’s planning provide the space

for the crowd to see the screen? Investing

in good architectural planning will make

the cost of a big screen really worth it.

Kids, kids, kids

If the kids love it, then the parents will

come and probably bring all of their

friends too. A great kids area is almost a

must-have for young families, but it can

be a disruption to everyone else if not

planned well. We consider the pros and

cons with our clients and design venues

that can cater to the little ones without

upsetting everyone else.

WILLOWDALE HOTEL

The completed Willowdale Hotel features

an independent sports bar, VIP room,

bistro, kid’s zone, and multiple all-weather

alfresco areas. Rethinking the humble beer

garden, the Bergstrom team created an allweather

sunroom featuring a retractable

roof, sliding glass facade, outdoor

fireplace, outdoor TV, heating, and cooling.

The space now offers a comfortable

alfresco experience in all conditions.

Sited on a prominent corner of Willowdale

Drive and Camden Valley Way, it is

an impressive addition to Sydney’s

hospitality offering.

HOTEL GOSFORD

The exciting refurbishment of Hotel

Gosford encompassed the existing

heritage-listed building, and saw the

/ 58

REVIEW

SHOWCASE/ BERGSTROM ARCHITECTS

incorporation of a multi-function bistro offering. The new wing

includes the bistro, main bar, lounge, and beer garden.

The timeless, rustic palette has drawn inspiration from the historic

1920s hotel. Rich rustic timbers, an exposed steel structure,

and hints of brass create a welcoming and warm palette. The

industrial yet contemporary feel creates a timeless aesthetic that

enhances and celebrates the original hotel.

The new wing has sweeping raked ceilings that are sculptural

in form and mimic the solid colonnades of the existing heritagelisted

building.

This sensitive, exciting, and timeless design commemorates and

takes inspiration from the old while celebrating the new with

contemporary, rich forms and finishes.

Creative

designs

that build

value.

FLAGSTONE TAVERN

Successful hospitality projects rely on the architectural layout

working well with pedestrian flow paths, furniture layouts, and the

grand vision of the publican.

At the pointy end of the job at Flagstone Tavern, Bergstrom

Architects was hired to review the layout of the pub and tweak

the planning to suit functionality and practicality while infusing

character into the interiors.

With soaring volumes and large open spaces, areas were

defined and highlighted with large-scale feature lighting, striking

custom carpet design, and a playful combination of the other

decorative finishes.

The finishes were designed to be resilient yet warm – focusing on

a relaxed outdoor look without over-embellishing to achieve the

desired budget. The furniture selection was curated to work with

the outdoor/indoor feel while offering a variety of seating options.

We believe strongly in the ideas behind our designs and are

passionate about seeing them come to life. We work in an open

studio environment where ideas, experience, and knowledge

are shared in order to achieve the best possible outcome for

our clients.

From feasibility to approvals, procurement, and project

management, we work with you. We welcome you to join us in

designing and delivering an inspirational idea.

Our design ethos is to blend the outstanding

with the practical. Whether we’re designing

a hotel, a club, a pub, an office or an

apartment, we match the inspirational

direction of the client with the highest levels

of design integrity and the long-lasting

needs of the building’s patrons, members,

residents, customers or employees.

Every building we design shares a common

purpose: that the finished structure and

interior space must be people-friendly,

commercially viable and beautifully designed.

We are proudly associated with these hotel projects:

The Bayview Hotel ∙ Gregory Hills Hotel ∙ Harrigan’s

Cameron Park ∙ Hotel Gosford ∙ Hotel Jesmond

Huntlee Tavern ∙ The Lakes Hotel ∙ The Mill Hotel

Orchard Tavern ∙ The Peakhurst ∙ Plumpton Hotel

Warners Bay Hotel ∙ Willowdale Hotel

bergstromarchitects.com.au

@bergstromarchitects

CREATING

SPACES

THAT

CONNECT

CUSTOMERS COME FOR THE OFFERINGS,

BUT STAY FOR THE AMBIENCE.

We had a chat with one of the brilliant minds behind Liife

Architecture, Jessica Hersch – an experienced hospitality

architect who designs hotels where every detail is carefully

considered to create a memorable experience.

Liife Architecture is a boutique architecture studio specialising

in hospitality design and passionate about placemaking. We

understand the pulse of the industry and, drawing from two

decades of experience, create venues that function beautifully and

are also commercially successful.

A deep knowledge of what drives both owners and guests ensures

a design approach that solves operational challenges while

creating spaces that feel inviting and warm. Every project reflects

the unique identity of the venue and its community, blending

aspiration with feasibility to deliver impactful designs that stay

within budget.

The outcome is spaces that are thoughtfully designed, highly

functional, and emotionally resonant – environments where people

naturally gather and feel a true sense of belonging.

Shared expertise

We see every project as a true partnership. Many of our clients

are seasoned hoteliers or hospitality operators, and we value the

wealth of knowledge they bring.

We take the time to understand their vision, their day-to-day

realities, and the heart of their business. It’s this mutual sharing of

expertise that leads to outstanding results.

Delivering value

In the current financial climate, business owners are now, more

than ever, looking strategically to ensure every decision they

make delivers value for their business and guests.

We help our clients weigh key design decisions against project

budgets, ensuring they’re always making informed choices.

Our role is to guide the process so that great design and smart

business go hand in hand.

Personalised approach

As a boutique studio, we offer a highly personalised approach.

Each of our clients works closely with the same architect

from concept through to completion, ensuring their vision and

operational needs are fully understood.

We know that a refurbishment or build of a new venue is a

stressful time for hoteliers, so we ensure transparent, consistent

updates and easy-to-understand explanations at every stage.

Strategic planning

A big part of what we do is strategic venue planning. It’s not just

about designing beautiful spaces – it’s about understanding

which parts of a venue are thriving and which ones could be

working harder.

/ 60

REVIEW

SHOWCASE/ LIIFE ARCHITECTURE

Bring

your

venue

to liife.

We work closely with owners and operators to define the vision,

uncover opportunities, and align design decisions with long-term

business goals.

Genuine collaboration

Bringing a venue to life takes a team. As architects and designers,

we have the value of working closely with our clients, consultants,

and construction teams throughout the project.

Traditionally, architectural and construction teams operate in

isolation – designs are finalised before builders are brought on

board. However, our decades of industry experience have shown

us the value of a more integrated approach.

By fostering strong, collaborative relationships between architects,

consultants, and construction teams from the outset, we offer our

clients the advantage of collective expertise throughout the entire

process.

This collaborative method brings significant benefits. It allows

us to explore ideas from multiple perspectives early on, resolve

challenges proactively, and deliver projects on-site with greater

efficiency and fewer surprises.

Through this thoughtful, unified approach, Liife Architecture

brings a distinctive sensibility to every project, balancing

functional requirements with intuitive, people-centred design to

create spaces that feel truly welcoming.

Let’s bring your venue to Liife.

0401 384 547

hello@archliife.com

ARCHLIIFE.COM

PUB TALK/ PAUL ST JOHN-WOOD

HANG IN

THERE

JUST WHEN WE WERE OPTIMISTIC THE WORST OF THE WEATHER WAS

BEHIND US FOR 2025, MOTHER NATURE SAID, “HOLD MY BEER,” AND DELIVERED THE

WORST FLOODING EVENT WEST QUEENSLAND HAS EVER RECORDED.

While there were limited venues that were inundated with

water directly, the potential economic impact on the entire

region will take its toll on everyone, and we will ensure that

all who need support receive it.

We hope you all had a happy and safe Easter with family

and friends, and that your venues enjoyed strong trade over

the holiday period.

It was great to see so many respectful Anzac Day events

held at pubs right across the state. We understand the

restrictive conditions regarding trading hours and acquiring

permission to host Two-Up at your venues on Anzac Day,

and we will continue to advocate for change in this regard.

One-off extended hours permits

With several significant sporting and cultural events taking

place in the next two months, hoteliers are reminded that

one-off extended hours permits are available through

application. The criteria for approval has been eased to

allow venues to host activities for these occasions without

the need for requests from persons independent of the

licensee. Your application is still required to be lodged 21

days before the event.

Minors on premises

Members are reminded of the importance of having

documented evidence in place of support and training

provided to employees engaged in the service of alcohol to

ensure approved identification of patrons is being checked

to prevent non-exempt minors from being on licensed

premises.

There has been a spate of incidents in recent months

involving minors (generally 16 or 17-year-olds being

there with 18-year-old friends) on the premises. There

is a complete defence in the Liquor Act if a minor

misrepresents their age to a staff member (presents a fake

identification), so it is imperative that staff perform checks

on a regular basis to protect themselves and the business.

Toowoomba Region Hoteliers Meeting

On Tuesday 10 June, the QHA will host a publican’s lunch

meeting for hoteliers and their key staff from the greater

Toowoomba region. The lunch will feature discussions and

business development presentations from a range of QHA

staff and corporate partners.

PFD Food Services will again generously showcase their

products and provide a delicious lunch for all attendees,

and of course our beverage partners will ensure everyone

remains well hydrated throughout.

Details of the lunch have been sent to all venues around

the Toowoomba region, and you still have time to register

your attendance.

QHA Awards for Excellence finalists announced

Congratulations to all venues that have been announced

as finalists for the 2025 QHA Awards for Excellence. The

standard of all finalists across every category this year

certainly represents excellence in our industry, and we wish

you every success for the awards gala, which is to be held

at the Brisbane Convention and Entertainment Centre on

Monday 30 June.

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL VENUES THAT

HAVE BEEN ANNOUNCED AS FINALISTS FOR

THE 2025 QHA AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE.

/ 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

CMBM Facility Services

Ph: 07 3391 1040 /

Ph: 0419 708 715

cmbm.com.au

ROOM

(nee The Apartment Store)

Ph: 0411 211 065

room.design

Liife Architecture

Ph: 0401 384 547

archliife.com

BEVERAGES

Accolade Wines

Ph: 07 3252 7933

accolade-wines.com

Asahi Group

Carlton & United Breweries

Ph: 07 3666 4104

cub.com.au

Brown-Forman

Australia Pty Ltd

Ph: 07 3010 2000

brown-forman.com

Campari Australia Pty Ltd

Ph: 07 3253 1801

camparigroup.com.au

Coca-Cola Europacific

Partners

Ph: 13 26 53

ccamatil.com

Coopers Brewery

Ph: 07 3275 3732

coopers.com.au

Diageo

Ph: 07 3257 0800

diageo.com

Good Drinks Australia

Ph: 0447 346 111

gooddrinks.com.au

Lion

Ph: 07 3361 7400

lionco.com

Paramount Liquor

Ph: 0429 448 523

paramountliquor.com.au

Pernod-Ricard Australia

Ph: 07 3340 5471

pernod-ricard.com

Red Bull Australia

Ph: 02 9023 2892

redbull.com.au

Samuel Smith & Son

Ph: 07 3373 5777

samsmith.com

Southtrade International

Ph: 07 3085 7418

southtradeint.com.au

Suntory Oceania

Ph: 0427 561 519

suntoryoceania.com

Treasury Wine Estates

Ph: 03 9685 8000

treasurywineestates.com

Cork and Barrel

Ph: 0437 090 776

corkandbarrel.com.au

Flying Foam Pty Ltd

Ph: 0413 447 711

flyingfoam.com.au

4 Hearts Brewing

Ph: 07 3281 1004

4heartsbrewing.com

BUILDING SUPPLIES

& SERVICES

Bunnings

Ph: 07 3452 5725

bunnings.com.au

EDUCATION, TRAINING

& EMPLOYMENT

Best Security -

Security & Training

Ph: 07 3212 8460

bestsecurlty.net.au

Alliance Abroad

International Pty Ltd

Ph: 0450 232 460

allianceabroad.com

BTAQ Consulting

Ph: 0408 437 643

btaq.com.au

Find HQ

Ph: 0431 376 689

findachef.net.au

Frontier Leadership

Ph: 0423 097 246

frontierleadership.edu.au

Federation Academy

Ph: 0423 097 246

federationacademy.edu.au

Prime Effect

Ph: 0406 500 171

primeeffect.com.au

NoVacancy Hotel &

Accommodation

Industry Expo

Ph: 0447 456 085

novacancy.com.au

Owner Manager Program

Ph: 0437 834 195

ownermanager.com.au

Sero Institute

Ph: 1800 206 010

seroinstitute.edu.au

The Talent Playbook

Ph: 07 3822 9665

thetalentplaybook.com.au

TAFE Queensland

Ph: 1300 308 233

tafeqld.edu.au

ENERGY GAS/POWER

BOC Limited

Ph: 07 3212 4135

boc.com.au

TransTasman

Energy Group

Ph: 1300 118 834

tteg.com.au

Solar Connected

Ph: 0432 600 788

solarconnected.com.au

Spinifex Energy

Ph: 0419 108 638

spinifexenergy.com.au

FINANCES, BANKING,

INSURANCE &

INVESTMENTS

Commonwealth Bank of

Australia

Ph: 0476 824 307

commbank.com.au

Green Finance Group

Ph: 0457 883 700

greenfinancegroup.com.au

Gallagher Insurance Brokers

Ph Brisbane: 07 3367 5000

Ph North QLD: 07 4753 5311

Ph Toowoomba: 07 4639 7102

ajg.com.au

GSA Insurance Brokers

Ph: 0436 275 828

gsaib.com

Waratah Debt Capital

Ph: 0448 681 783

waratahmanagement.com.au

Westpac Banking Corporation

Ph: 0438 701 195

westpac.com.au

Banktech

Ph: 1800 080 910

banktech.com.au

BUPA - Health Insurance

Ph: 134 135

Quote ID: 2139463

bupa.com.au


Ph: 1300 836 025

trinitas3.com.au

Matrix Insurance Group

Ph: 08 6555 7742

matrixinsurance.com.au

FOOD & ASSOCIATED

BUSINESSES

Bidfood Australia Limited

Ph: 0434 939 134

bidfood.com.au

Cookers

Ph: 1300 88 22 99

cookers.com.au

McCain Food Service

Solutions

Ph: 0418 157 922

mccainfoodservice.com.au

PFD Food Services

Ph: 131 733

pfdfoods.com.au

Simon George and Sons

Ph: 07 3717 1400

simongeorge.com.au

CTB & Co

(Cooking the Books)

Ph: 1300 911 282

cookingthebooks.com

Food and Agribusiness

Network

Ph: 0419 651 157

foodagribusiness.org.au

Fussy Fruit Wholesale

Fruit and Veg Pty Ltd

Ph: 0416 940 930

fussyfruit.com.au

Goodman Fielder

Ph: 0403 937 801

gffoodservice.com.au

CFM Australia -

Swap & Go Oils

Ph: 0430 504 486

cfmaustralia.com.au

FURNITURE SUPPLY

SlumberCorp

Ph: 07 3892 7477

slumbercorp.com.au

GAMING AND RACING

Ainsworth Game

Technology Pty Ltd

Ph: 07 3209 6210

ainsworth.com.au

Aristocrat Leisure

Industries

Ph: 07 3727 1600

aristocrat.com.au

Everi

Ph: 0409 039 461

everi.com

IGT

Ph: 07 3890 5622

igt.com.au

Konami Australia

Ph: 02 9666 3111

konamiaustralia.com.au

Light & Wonder

Ph: 02 9773 0299

explore.lnw.com

MAX

Ph: 0418 728 927

max.com.au

Odyssey

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

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REVIEW

HOSPITALITY

CONSULTANTS

DNS Specialist Services

Ph: 0433 906 809

dnsspecialistservices.

com.au

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

Liquor Licensing Consultants

Ph: 0417 632 311

E: info@liquor-licensing.com.au

liquor-licensing.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

Pro Score - Sporting

Promotions

Ph: 0431 366 800

proscore.com.au

Rooks Entertainment

Ph: 07 4068 8633

rooks-entertainment.com.au

HOTEL & BAR SUPPLIES

BOC Limited - Gas/

Reticulation Supply

Ph: 07 3212 4322

boc.com.au

Reward Hospitality

Ph: 07 3341 5929

rewardhospitality.com.au

Stoddart

Ph: 0437 722 910

stoddart.com.au

HOTEL BROKERS /

REAL ESTATE /

PROPERTY VALUERS

Off Market Hotels

Ph: 0408 192 490

offmarkethotels.com.au

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

QHA PLATINUM PARTNERS

QHA DIAMOND PARTNERS

QHA GOLD PARTNERS

Prostaff Events Pty Ltd

Ph: 0433 553 987

E: Info@prostaffevents.com.au

prostaffevents.com.au

Urbis Valuations Pty Ltd

Ph: 0429 103 989

urbis.com.au

RevenYou

Ph: 0497 864 694

www.revenyou.com.au

Sculpture Hospitality

Queensland

Ph: 0427 532 925

sculpturehospitality.com

HOTEL ENTERTAINMENT

News Corp Australia

Ph: 0439 738 926

newscorpaustralia.com

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

SGW Hotel Broker

Ph: 0417 508 452

sgwhotelbroker.com.au

LEGAL

Mullins

Ph: 07 3224 0222

mullinslawyers.com.au

HopgoodGanim Lawyers

Ph: 0419 762 469

hopgoodganim.com.au

LIQUOR

BUYING GROUPS

Bottlemart

Ph: 1300 733 504

bottlemart.com.au

Independent Liquor Group

Ph: 07 3713 2751

ilg.com.au

Liquor Legends

Ph: 07 3107 7422

liquorlegends.com.au

BSV

Cookers

DNS Specialist

Hospitality Services

Everi

Good Drinks Australia

Best Security

Beyond Payments

BOC Limited

BSPN Architecture

Caughley and Co

Coopers Brewery

Command 51

GC Cleaning Pty Ltd

Green Finance Group

GSA Insurance Brokers

HLB Mann Judd

QHA SILVER PARTNERS

H&L Australia

Next Payments

News Corp Australia

Odyssey

Onyx Gaming

Optus Sport

QHA BRONZE PARTNERS

Impos Point of Sale

Infinity Group

Infinity Business Solution

Ozone Hospitality

Services

Paramount Liquor

Platypus Print Packaging

Power Jeffrey & Company

Quantaco

Ras360 Property

Solutions

Prosperity Advisers QLD

Simon George & Sons

STR, a CoStar Group

Company

Trans Tasman Energy

Group

Rohrig Constructions

Red Bull Australia

Simtech

Southtrade International

Stan Sport

SW Accountants &

Advisors

SwiftPOS

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

Beyond Payments

Ph: 1300 192 600

beyondpayments.com.au

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

Ozone Hospitality Services

Ph: 1300 793 547

ozonehospitalityservices.

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

Harris Data Systems

Ph: 07 5535 7677

harrisdata.com.au

IDU Technologies Pty Ltd

Ph: 07 3035 5401

idu-identification.com

Jands

Ph: 0408 506 620

jands.com.au

JB Hi-Fi Commercial

Division

Ph: 07 3360 9925

jbhifi.com.au

OpenTable

Ph: 03 4240 3297

restaurant.opentable.com

onPlatinum ICT

Ph: 0402 281 561

onplatinum.com.au

Security Registers

Ph: 0452 363 166

securityregisters.com.au

Smart Parking Limited

Ph: 0421 155 972

smartparking.com

UrPay Technologies

Ph: 0411 457 377

urpay.com.au

Vix Vizion Pty Ltd

Ph: 0413 026 918

vixvizion.com

TRANSPORT

A.P. Eagers Limited

Ph: 07 3109 6731

apeagers.com.au


Ph: 1300 836 025

trinitas3.com.au

OTHER COURSES OFFERED:

• Online RSA/RSG Training

• Gaming Nominee Training

• Employment Relations Training

• Employment Relations Webinar

Responsible Management of Licensed Venues

Training is a mandatory training requirement

for those applying for a liquor licence, and

applicants for an Approved Manager’s Licence.

Training is offered face to face at regional

centres throughout Queensland.

For more information please contact the

QHA Training Centre

P. 07 3221 6999

E. info@qha.org.au

W. qha.org.au

Banktech

Ph: 1800 080 910

banktech.com.au

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

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

BSV

Ph: 1300 244 727

bigscreenvideo.com.au

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

CTB & Co

(Cooking the Books)

Ph: 1300 911 282

cookingthebooks.com

Dashback

Ph: 0414 069 273

dashback.com.au

/ 66

REVIEW

Wednesday 16 July 2025


QHA Review - Issue 69 - May 2025

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