Australian Hotels Association - Hotel Today - April / May 2020

HOTEL TODAY AUSTRALIAN HOTELS ASSOCIATION (VICTORIA) PUBOVATION BRISBANE

WE’RE BACK! PUBS TO REOPEN FROM JUNE 1

APRIL / MAY 2020 THE GROVEDALE HOTEL

You’re in hospitality.

We have a banking expert for that - Dean.

Call Dean Cleary, Relationship Director on 0413 875 241 to find out how your business can benefit from our hospitality banking expertise.

Bank of Melbourne

© 2019 Bank of Melbourne – A Division of Westpac Banking Corporation ABN 33 007 457 141 AFSL and Australian credit licence 233714.

WBC01275BOM 0719

Contents 4

6 CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER’S UPDATE

Previous Edition

HOTEL TODAY AUSTRALIAN HOTELS ASSOCIATION (VICTORIA) THE BUSHFIRE APPEAL

GRANGE ON THE RANGE HOTELCARE’S CHARITY GOLF DAY 2020

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2020

8 EVENTS 12 VIRTUAL PUBLICANS PANEL

PRIVATE DINING & EVENTS SPACE SPECIAL

14 PARTNERSHIP UPDATE 16 CHARMAN PARTNERS WEBINAR 18 WELLBEING & COVID-19 22 WIN A DECADE OF GRAND FINAL TICKETS WITH WOLF BLASS 24 AHA (VIC) MEMBERSHIP UPDATE 26 TAA (VIC) MEMBERSHIP UPDATE

February / March 2020 On the Cover: Pubs to Re-Open from 1 June

28 FAQS WITH FLOW POWER 30 ZAGAME’S GOES FUR-FRIENDLY 34 ELEMENT MELBOURNE RICHMOND, THE PET FRIENDLY HOTEL 38 IN THE PURSUIT OF HOPPINESS

Australian Hotels Association (Victoria)

AHA (Vic) Level 1, 1 Little Collins Street, Melbourne Victoria 3000 PO Box 18067, 111 Bourke Street, Melbourne Victoria 8003 03 8631 7922 | ahavic.com.au Editor Richard Hinman 03 8631 7935 | r.hinman@ahavic.com.au Artwork 2903 Creative 0418 316 799 | 2903creative@gmail.com

40 AHA (VIC) RECIPIENT OF WORKSAFE VICTORIA WORKWELL FUNDING 42 PUBOVATION BRISBANE 44 THE GROVEDALE HOTEL ON STATE AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE 48 GRAND JUNCTION TRARALGON’S STUNNING RENOVATION 52 FIGHT MND 56 AHA (VIC) INSURANCE SOLUTIONS WITH ADROIT 58 WILLIAM ANGLISS TEAM UP WITH UNITING AGEWELL

The feature material in this edition of Hotel Today was published by the Australian Hotels Association (Victoria). Care has been taken with the advertorial content of this issue; any enquiries regarding claims made should be directed to the companies concerned. The statements contained in this publication, while based on information believed to be accurate and reliable, are not guaranteed. No liability can be accepted for any error or omission.

60 NEW MEMBERS/ TRANSFERS OF LICENCE 61 AHA (VIC) PARTNER DIRECTORY AHAVIC.COM.AU | 3

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE DAVID CANNY | PRESIDENT

On Sunday, 17 May Premier Daniel Andrews announced the plan to re-open pubs and hotels across Victoria under certain conditions.

AHA (Vic) President David Canny recorded a short video to give an update to members and partners ahead of re-opening.

4 | HOTEL TODAY | APRIL / MAY 2020

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER’S UPDATE PADDY O’SULLIVAN | CEO

COVID-19 ARRIVED WITH A THUD. Its impact has shown to be widespread, and in some parts of the world, catastrophic.

In Australia, it has tried to tear the heart out of our communities; it hasn’t.

Australians have adapted fast, following the directions handed down by Federal and State Governments to restrict the spread of the disease.

This medical crisis soon became an economic crisis for our industry and our broader economy. Gathering restrictions, social distancing, shut downs, and ultimately a lock down rapidly evolving throughout our communities.

This is a unique situation for our industry; negotiating carve-outs or exemptions on unwelcome interventions takes on a whole new dimension. We are fighting to maintain the bare bones of our industry whilst planning strategies to safely and sustainably reopen when the time is right.

In our initial communications with Federal, State and Local Governments, AHA (Vic) expressed our appreciation for their attention and ongoing efforts to address the medical pandemic facing our nation. We also needed to broaden the conversation to include appropriate trading restriction measures required for the business community.

6 | HOTEL TODAY | APRIL / MAY 2020

Let’s rewind a little. Friday the 20th of March, 2020, our industry was subject to mass gathering restrictions of 1 person per 4 square metres within an undivided space. At 10.15PM that evening, a call from a Senior Government Official is received with anticipation as a debriefing of the trouble ahead.

Our first step in that moment was to define the issues that we were about to face. Understanding the nature of the problem and its subsequent business impact drives the planning and implementation of strategies to protect publicans, staff, customers, industry suppliers, and their friends and families.

As days past, AHA (Vic) continued to contribute to the Victorian Government’s fight against the economic impact of COVID-19, and importantly protect members’ interests, through: • submissions to the Victorian Treasurer to give effect to legislation that exempts JobKeeper payments from payroll tax and the WorkCover premium on payments to their employees if their staff are currently stood down; • representations to the relevant Government departments to give affect to legislation and regulations supporting the National Cabinet’s Mandatory Code of Conduct for commercial tenancies;

• t he Night-time Economy Business Initiative – Industry Steering Committee. Working with the Victorian Government to provide $40 million from the Business Support Fund to support eligible licensed hospitality businesses most in need of additional rent relief; • r epresentations to the Victorian Treasurer and Small Business Commissioner to implement further cash flow relief for commercial leasing arrangements; • c onsultation on shutdown restrictions to carve out exemptions regarding non-essential activity for off-premise liquor and take away/delivery of meals from pubs and hotels; • t he $500 million Business Support Fund. It was announced that AHA (Vic), Victorian Chamber and the Australian Industry Group will be working with the Government to deliver the Fund; • l iaising with the relevant Government departments to support and roll out; ‘Hotels for Heroes’, the announced mandatory 14 day self-isolation period in hotels for Australians returning from overseas, and the availability of accommodation facilities to support the health care sector in creating availability in hospital rooms to meet the potential demand across the network;

• representations to the Minister for Gaming and Liquor Regulation regarding cash flow relief through Liquor Licence fee refunds to support cash flow relief through the deferral of upcoming gaming tax sweep; • communicating to our Partner network seeking their support for members through credit term extensions, stock returns and other support offers; • partnering in the For the Love of Your Local initiative with Carlton & United Breweries, that looks to achieve a monumental cash injection for pubs through the community driven campaign, and • facilitating the donation of Carlton & United Breweries Hand Sanitiser to Victoria Police, allowing Officers in the field access to the in-demand product; This is a short summary of the activity AHA (Vic) has engaged in during this period to protect members’ interests in this time. There has also been representation on the issues of reimbursement of payroll tax payments, insurance, JobSeeker and JobKeeper, and obligations to AUSTRAC. On behalf of members, we submitted a Re-Opening Strategy for Victoria’s pubs and hotels post COVID-19 to the Victorian Government. By working collaboratively with the Victorian Government and health authorities,

the industry’s Re-Opening Strategy is to the benefit of member businesses, the 52,000 people employed in the industry and the wider community.

This collaborative approach led to the announcement made on the 17th of May by the Premier of Victoria, re-opening our pubs and hotels from the 1st of June.

AHA (Vic) exists entirely to promote the hotel industry and to protect our members. Being a member of AHA (Vic) ensures that as the business owner you are supported and represented.

At this time, it is essential that we all remain in touch and ready to support one another. As always, AHA (Vic) staff are only a phone call away and ready to assist.

Regards,

Paddy O’Sullivan Chief Executive Officer Australian Hotels Association (Vic) p.osullivan@ahavic.com.au

EVENTS

PUBS, POTS & PROFITS – WARRANDYTE 18 FEBRUARY GRAND HOTEL WARRANDYTE

In February, we took our travelling road show to Warrandyte to kick off Pubs, Pots and Profits for 2019.

Addressing the common issues publicans have in running pubs, we were joined by key industry suppliers who met with publicans and engaged in a trade show style format.

Damien O’Malley from OMC on Maximising Profits.

Andrew Brown, Malvern Vale Club Hotel.

Bec Pearson, Carlton & United Breweries.

8 | HOTEL TODAY | APRIL / MAY 2020

Members taking notes during the presentations.

Greg Bywater, Grand Hotel Warrandyte, Winner of the Perfect Pour competition.

TRENDS, INSIGHTS & IDEAS FOR GAMING HOTEL OPERATORS

25 FEBRUARY AHA (VIC) OFFICES

AHA (Vic) welcomed over 60 members to our office in Melbourne to hear from hand-picked industry leaders.

Members learned about the latest trends in the market as well as having the opportunity to ask questions on the current issues facing gaming operators.

Joel Williams, Gaming and Liquor Department of Justice and Community Safety.

Andrew Pryor State Manager Financial Market, Bank of Melbourne.

Peter Walford from Next Payments on TITO.

Matt McCarroll from Aristocrat on Customer Experience.

Nic McClanachan from Human Experience on Mystery Shoppers.

AHAVIC.COM.AU | 9

EVENTS

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY BRUNCH 5 MARCH THE LANGHAM, MELBOURNE

As is tradition, we celebrated International Women’s Day with a brunch at the Langham, Melbourne.

Our guest presenter was Chelsea Pottenger, who focused on Mental Fitness and how you can change your world on deep breath at a time.

An internationally accredited mindfulness and meditation practitioner, Chelsea has worked with some of the biggest brands in the world including eBay, Uber, and Mercedes-Benz to name a few. Chelsea is also an ambassador for The Gidget Foundation and R U O K? Chelsea’s message is to take control of your mental and physical wellbeing, so you can live in the moment. She taught our group valuable coping skills that won’t stop stress but will help change the way they react to it.

We would like to thank all our guests for their participation on the day, Chelsea for her outstanding presentation as well as our partners for helping us put on such a great event.

Guests enjoying the stunning surroundings of The Rooftop at QT.

10 | HOTEL TODAY | APRIL / MAY 2020

MARCH COUNCIL LUNCH

11 MARCH THE ROOFTOP AT QT MELBOURNE Following our March Council Meeting, Councillors and Partners headed to QT Melbourne for a Cocktail Lunch.

Thanks to Bank of Melbourne, guests were able to enjoy the stunning view from The Rooftop at QT.

Guests networking ahead of the lunch.

Lee Davey, QT Melbourne, welcomes guests to his venue and speaks about their new private dining spaces.

Paddy O’Sullivan, AHA (Vic) CEO, addresses guests and thanks our partners.

David Canny, AHA (Vic) President, gives an industry update.

Guests enjoying the stunning surroundings of The Rooftop at QT.

AHAVIC.COM.AU | 11

PUBLICANS PANEL In a first for AHA (Vic), we hosted a virtual Publicans Panel with host Kimberley Malcolm chatting to Ray Sharawara, Colleen Williams and Dan Cronin.

They discussed adapting to the current hospitality environment and the challenges of keeping your team informed, motivated and engaged.

CLICK ON THE PLAY BUTTON TO WATCH THE FULL VIDEO

12 | HOTEL TODAY | APRIL / MAY 2020

PUBLICANS PANEL In the second of our Virtual Publicans Panels, host Jacqui Rowe spoke to Peter Appleby, Cam Price and Jackie Booth.

They talked about success stories in the hospitality industry and how they are staying connected with staff and customers during the COVID-19 restrictions, as well as preparing for the re-bound and re-opening.

CLICK ON THE PLAY BUTTON TO WATCH THE FULL VIDEO

AHAVIC.COM.AU | 13

PARTNERSHIP UPDATE WE WANT TO REINFORCE THAT WE ARE COMMITTED TO WORKING WITH YOU, AS TRUE INDUSTRY PARTNERS, ON THIS JOURNEY AND, WHEN APPROPRIATE, PROVIDE YOU WITH EVERY OPPORTUNITY TO ADD VALUE TO MEMBERS’ BUSINESSES THAT ARE MOST IN NEED. As we have intimated in the past, we have already begun planning events for Q4 2020 where we will look to position your products and services ‘front and centre’ as the hospitality industry bounces back to its former glory. We will be giving you, our valued AHA (Vic) Partners, a competitive advantage ahead of other industry suppliers so that your business can benefit most as the industry rebounds.

WATCH THE FULL PARTNERSHIP UPDATE FROM OUR GENERAL MANAGER, MIKE BAROUCHE

14 | HOTEL TODAY | APRIL / MAY 2020

Need to change the way your staff learn during COVID-19?

We’re absorbing Business subscription charges and removing licensing restrictions until 30th September 2020.

Motivate your staff, no matter where they are, with new skills and industry-recognized certificates.

Find out more at: typsy.com/covid

: 03 5955 4245

|

: hello@typsy.com

|

: typsy.com

CHARMAN PARTNERS WEBINAR MEMBERS HAVE ACCESS TO AN EXCLUSIVE PRE-RECORDED WEBINAR FROM CHARMAN PARTNERS. DAVID GOW’S PRESENTATION COVERS THE FOLLOWING TOPICS: • FEDERAL AND STATE STIMULUS PACKAGES • SURVIVING BUSINESS SHUTDOWN • FORECASTING CASH-FLOW RECOVERY

CLICK ON THE PLAY BUTTON TO WATCH THE FULL VIDEO

16 | HOTEL TODAY | APRIL / MAY 2020

WORKPLACE MENTAL HEALTH, WELLBEING AND COVID-19 It’s easy to be focussed on the threat to our physical health at the moment. We keep seeing that word “unprecedented”; we scroll through catastrophic stories from Europe and the USA and we’re even looking at the inside of our houses far more, and our friends far less, than perhaps we ever did before.

There’s no denying the importance of the vigilance that we all take with COVID-19 and our health. We are told this will be the fight of our lives as a nation, even as a generation.

So surely there are more important, more “practical” things to think about than “all that fluffy stuff” like mental health?

Perhaps surprisingly, our own mental health and that of our staff and workplaces is exactly what leaders must consider.

WHERE TO START? No matter which leaders I train, in any organisation, in any circumstance, I will usually end up saying this: “You cannot pour, from an empty cup”

18 | HOTEL TODAY | APRIL / MAY 2020

The first place to start with mental health, is usually the last place you want to; yourself. It’s so much easier to fall into the trap of thinking you can “just get it done”, “suck it up” or to tell others what they should be doing to look after themselves before staying up late to finish that email/roster/menu or business continuity plan.

It is the unseen things which often take a back seat in these turbulent times, that really change the way we approach our situation, not to mention our staff and business. Recognising these things is the first step to managing them; •w hat we might be thinking about our situation “this is it, the business will never recover” • what we might be saying to ourselves “I can’t cope with having that conversation with my staff” •h ow we are feeling “I’m just. So. Tired”

PRIORITISING YOU Most of us know that we need to put that oxygen mask in the plane on ourselves first – and yet, we don’t. We know that effective leaders lead a team by example and yet, when it comes to practicing self-care, we often don’t.

• A cknowledge distress, strain, anxiety or emotion you hear in your team member’s words and/or voice and try not to “gloss over” it, because it doesn’t seem to have a “solution”.

So why don’t we?

Put simply, we’re usually telling ourselves a story.

We know that we need regular exercise, a balanced diet, sleep and connection with our friends, but in stressful times, we’re up late (or early), eating whatever’s come out of the kitchen (six hours after opening) and cancelling that catchup coffee (yet again). Not to mention the gym memberships, footballs or pair of runners that’ve gone untouched for longer than we care to admit.

The times that it’s hardest to look after ourselves is exactly the times when we need to. It’s not selfish, but practical, necessary and inescapable. “I don’t have time/can’t afford it/need

to do ____ first”…

Where can you take the first, small step?

WHAT ABOUT EMPLOYEE MENTAL HEALTH? So, perhaps you’ve learnt the heard way, perhaps you learnt that if you burn the candle at both ends, it’s pretty hard to see when it gets dark. What then can you do for your team?

SUPPORTING STAFF BOTH AT WORK AND OUTSIDE OF WORK During times of great instability such as those facing the industry now, it would be very normal to expect stress, fear and suffering. Not just from C-19, but from the strain it places on what existed before. Work doesn’t just provide a source of income, but a sense of identity, social contact, success, achievement and structure to our days.

So, as a leader, what practical steps can you take to offer support?

• Check-in. In a group or individually, no matter how tough it may be or how much you think things may not have changed since last time you did.

– How are they feeling/coping?

– What are they finding tough/easier?

– Who are they keeping in contact with for support?

– What Netflix series are they getting into?!

Not every discussion needs to revolve around COVID-19!

• Ask open questions and reflect what your team members are saying to them to show you’re listening. Try to do this without offering advice or assuming you know how they’re feeling! No matter how tempting it may be!

• Set clear boundaries around working time, non-work time and your expectations around these. Also set boundaries for yourself and when they can/cannot contact you.

• Communicate clearly and transparently around any change and any changes they need to make. It’s very difficult for people to jump through hoops that they don’t know exist!

This does not mean mean communicating bluntly but ensuring that you are not avoiding conversations that you feel might be tough.

• Normalise talk about wellbeing and mental health just as you talk about your work tasks. You’re not amateur psychologists, you’re not there to fix, you’re just acting as a sounding board.

• Know where to refer them if they need extra support.

“Have you thought about reaching out to anyone about this?” There are some support resources below.

• Model self-care; talk about what you do to look after your mental health in your time off - you don’t need to go into detail, but modelling this highlights it’s importance.

WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR WHEN SUPPORTING YOUR TEAM It can be challenging to identify signs of compromised health and wellbeing. If you are not having regular contact with team members, it can be hard to recongise changes in their behaviour; however, there are some things you can look out for: • Change in email/text/phone etiquette or writing style such as scatty/illogical emails/texts, lack of or limited replies, use of innapropriate language.

• I ncreased irritability or exaggerated emotions, such as being snappy, acting aggressively, teary, or consistently anxious.

• Decrease or increase in productivity, including working longer hours than expected.

• Looking deshevelled (e.g., hair, clothing).

• Lack of concentration or focus – forgetting things, making mistakes, repeating themselves.

AHAVIC.COM.AU | 19

Regular interaction with team members not only helps with social connection, but helps you understand what is normal for them. The way we all behave varies from time-to-time depending on how we feel and what is happening to and around us.

Remember, we all have ‘bad days,’ and those days in the current global climate are very normal, but “checking-in” is key to promoting a supportive and psychologically safe environment by showing your team that you care.

SUPPORT RESOURCES Health Direct Government funded services providing health information, advice and directory of health services. www.healthdirect.gov.au

MindSpot Clinic National free online and telephone assessment and treatment services for anxiety and depression. www.mindspot.org.au

APS Find a Psychologist Search for qualified and trusted psychologists for services in a range of areas. www.psychology.org.au/Find-a-Psychologist

Beyond Blue Provider of information and resources around mental illness, awareness raising and stigma breaking. www.beyondblue.org.au/

20 | HOTEL TODAY | APRIL / MAY 2020

INDIVIDUAL VERSUS WORKPLACE MENTAL HEALTH Lastly, just like individual mental health, the mental health of teams and an organisation must be considered, too. Whilst people impact work, workplace factors impact individual and team performance.

A psychologically safe and healthy workplace is not a one-size-fits all. A number of factors can influence how psychologically safe an organisation.

Beyond factors discussed such as leadership, a psychologically safe workplace considers and measures respectful relationship and engagement, psychological support, employee recognition and reward and employee psychological safety.

Relationships Australia Relationship support services for individuals, families and communities. www.relationships.org.au Lifeline 13 11 14 Access to 24 hour crisis support and suicide prevention services. www.lifeline.org.au

Nicola Hogan SENIOR CONSULTANT PSYCHOLOGIST M: +61 438 167 355 / T: 1300 855 140 E: nicola@communicorpgroup.com W: communicorpgroup.com Nicola is an Educational Psychologist with over 13 years’ experience facilitating groups and mental health strategy and wellbeing training programs across organisations.

Bespoke Bespoke spaces spaces for for the the hospitality hospitality sector. sector.

03 03 8412 8412 3400 3400 03 8412 3400 bspn.com.au bspn.com.au bspn.com.au

melbourne@bspn.com.au melbourne@bspn.com.au melbourne@bspn.com.au 488 488 Victoria Victoria Street, Street, Richmond Richmond VIC VIC 3121 3121 488 Victoria Street, Richmond VIC 3121 ARCHITECTURE • INTERIOR DESIGN • PROJECT MANAGEMENT ARCHITECTURE • INTERIOR DESIGN • PROJECT MANAGEMENT ARCHITECTURE • INTERIOR DESIGN • PROJECT MANAGEMENT

WIN A DECADE OF

GRAND FINALS OR

AU residents 18+ only. Between 12.01am (AEDT) 1/1/20 & 11.59pm (AEST) 30/6/20,buy 750ml Wolf Blass (excl. Eaglehawk) from outlet (incl. online) or 750ml bottle / 2 glasses in 1 transaction from venue to share with friend/s, visit www.wolfblass.com & fill out entry form incl. receipt upload. Max 6 outlet entries/1 venue entry per person per day. Keep original itemised receipt/s. Draw: 1pm (AEST) 3/7/20, L8, 161 Collins St, Melb. VIC 3000. Prize: Tickets for 2 (18+) to your choice of AFL or NRL Men’s Grand Finals 2020-2029 (inclusive). Conditions apply to claiming Grand Final tickets each year. Total prize pool up to $9,102.32. Must claim prize by 5pm (AEST) 20/7/20. See website on 6/7/20 for winner. Entrants will get future marketing from Promoter. See website for full conditions inc. privacy statement. Promoter: Treasury Wine Estates Australia Limited, ABN 78 145 321 320, L8, 161 Collins St, Melb. VIC 3000. Permits: ACT TP 19/04575, SA T19/1875, NSW LTPS/19/39637. AFL Authorised GF Promotion: GFAFL20/08.

WOLF BLASS

GIVES FANS THE CHANCE TO

WIN A DECADE OF GRAND FINAL TICKETS WOLF BLASS IS REWARDING AUSTRALIAN SPORTING FANS BY GIVING ONE LUCKY WINNER THE CHANCE TO CHOOSE BETWEEN A DECADE OF FOOTBALL GRAND FINAL TICKETS FOR THEMSELVES AND A MATE.

Despite the incredibly challenging times the nation faces at the moment, further made difficult by the fact that both the AFL and NRL football season has been suspended until further notice, Wolf Blass is continuing with its annual promotion of rewarding Australian sporting fans the opportunity in a lifetime – offering one lucky winner the chance to follow their passion for AFL or NRL and win a decade of Grand Final tickets for them and a friend.

To participate in the competition shoppers simply need to buy any bottle of Wolf Blass (excluding Eaglehawk) and visit wolfblass.com to enter.

Nick Powell, Wolf Blass Marketing Manager, acknowledged that while we face unprecedented times, this year’s consumer promotion still celebrates Australia’s love of sport and the brand’s ongoing partnership with both the AFL and NRL. It also instils positivity and hope for fans. “Our partnerships with the AFL and NRL are important to our brand and through this competition we want to engage with even more football fans by creating a once in a lifetime experience for them, particularly as it is something they can look forward to once the season is up and running again” said Powell.

Wolf Blass has been a proud sponsor of the AFL since 2015 and NRL since 2016.

The 2020 “Win a Decade of Grand Finals” promotion runs from January 1, 2020 to June 30, 2020. Should either football final not be played in 2020, the opportunity will commence from the 2021 season onwards.

For more information regarding the 2020 Wolf Blass consumer competition, please visit www.wolfblass.com

AHAVIC.COM.AU | 23

AHA (VIC) MEMBERSHIP UPDATE KIMBERLEY MALCOLM | SENIOR MANAGER – MEMBERSHIP & INDUSTRY ENGAGEMENT

AS I WRITE THIS, OUR INDUSTRY HAS BEEN SHUT FOR OVER 50 DAYS. LIKE MANY OF YOU, I’M SURE, SOME DAYS I CAN’T QUITE GET MY AHEAD AROUND IT. I’ve got to be honest with you all.

I’ve sat on this article now for weeks.

“Magazine Article” sat at the top of my to do list and I kept avoiding it. Each day I wrote it again on the top of my list and it continued to sit there. Why? Because what will I say?

Over the past two months I’ve participated in many webinars, heard from many a professional and I’ve heard a similar tone – people are going through what is likened to the circle of grief. I recall the first weekend when the restrictions got tighter and the level of panic and emotion I was hearing in members’ voices was very real.

As we shut down completely, this panic turned to sadness as many of you had to stand down your employees, the glue that held your businesses together, the people that felt like family to you.

As those days’ past, members started to focus on Government support and assistance, the phone lines were full of enquiring minds as to how to get the help you needed.

Fast forward another week and I started to receive calls from members who simply want to tell me how many takeaway Parmas they did last night, or about the scones they baked to put on their takeaway menu, or how focussed they are about cleaning some grout that’s been annoying them for years or send me photos of the DIY projects in their bistros. Perhaps the tide is turning?

280 words in on this article and this is really starting to feel cathartic, perhaps I should have done it earlier!

24 | HOTEL TODAY | APRIL / MAY 2020

I wonder if some of you are finding that same feeling at the moment whilst you are cleaning the grout? Or finding old photographs of customers you’ve had stashed in a box somewhere? Or taking the time to work on those niggling thoughts in the back of your mind about the way your cool room is set up?

Most of our team is working remotely and a few of us who drive and have somewhere to park are coming in each day, some of us are taking a blended approach. We have a ten minute stand up meeting each day to check in on how one another is doing, to say “Hi” and to talk about our priorities for the day. Be well assured that our priorities are 100% on how we can continue to support each and every one of you, to ensure your businesses are ready to open up as soon as we get the call. I cannot wait for that day!

To finish up I want to thank so many of you who after the initial shock, rang, emailed and sent text messages to us here at HQ to check in on how we were doing. Every day we marvel at the support that has been offered in return to us and we are all truly grateful.

We all love this industry deeply and are committed to supporting you all through this crisis – we look forward to a cold beer with you all as soon as this is over. Please take care, call us when you need a set of ears, call a fellow publican to check in and stay safe.

Cheers,

Kimberley Malcolm, Senior Manager - Membership & Industry Engagement Australian Hotels Association (Victoria) k.malcolm@ahavic.com.au

H&L NEW FEATURE: "ORDERS FOR PICK UP & DELIVERY"

TAA (VIC) MEMBERSHIP UPDATE DOUGAL HOLLIS | GENERAL MANAGER | D.HOLLIS@TAAVIC.COM.AU

OPPORTUNITY TO REINVIGORATE STATE’S ACCOMMODATION SECTOR TAA (VIC) WELCOME THE NEWS THAT RESTRICTIONS ON HOTEL STAYS WILL BE LIFTED FROM 11.59PM ON SUNDAY, 31 MAY. THIS NEWS IS A CRUCIAL FIRST STEP TO REINVIGORATING THE STATE’S ACCOMMODATION SECTOR, APPRECIATING HOW HARD OUR INDUSTRY HAS BEEN HIT BY THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC. Our hotel community and hospitality offer is central to all that intrastate and interstate visitors love about Melbourne and Victoria. Hoteliers can’t wait to welcome guests back and provide them with the signature hospitality experiences that our industry is renowned for.

It is timely to note that Australia’s domestic travel industry is worth $62 billion annually. There is a significant opportunity for this economic benefit to be amplified, given Australians took 7.9 million international leisure trips last year and will look to replace these with intrastate and interstate travel. Particularly given international travel borders are closed and will likely remain that way, for the foreseeable future.

Australians have played their part to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and will now look to reconnect with families and friends. They will visit destinations they love, or have always aspired to get to, as they emerge from isolation.

What We Know •F rom 11.59pm on Sunday, 31 May, guests can stay at tourist accommodation, including hotels and private holiday rentals, as long as they do not use communal areas like shared bathrooms and kitchens.

•T here is not time limit on guest stays, but the Victorian Government has

26 | HOTEL TODAY | APRIL / MAY 2020

urged Victorians to use common sense when making travel plans.

• We do not believe there will be limits stipulated on the number of hotel rooms able to be sold and have reinforced to government that the very nature of the accommodation hotel service model (separate rooms and individual bathrooms) is naturally suited to social distancing.

• Hoteliers will need to be mindful of social distancing requirements in common use public areas.

20 people allowed per separate enclosed space, subject to the four square metre rule and up to 10 people per group/activity.

• Indoor and outdoor swimming pools will remain at a maximum of 20 patrons per separate enclosed space, subject to the four square metre rule calculated on the publicly accessible area excluding the pool and a limit of 3 persons per lane in each pool.

Food and Beverage Guest capacities

Pools/Gyms From 11.59pm, Sunday, 31 May:

• From midnight, Sunday 31 May with up to 20 patrons per enclosed space

• Indoor and outdoor swimming pools can be opened to a maximum of 20 patrons per separate enclosed space and a limit of 3 persons per lane in each pool.

• From midnight, Sunday 21 June with up to 50 patrons per enclosed space

• Up to 20 people can participate in outdoor group sport and exercise activities, provided a safe distance is kept and the activity is not competitive (contact).

Definition – Enclosed Space

• Up to 20 people can use outdoor gyms.

From 11.59pm, Sunday, 21 June: • Indoor physical recreation (e.g. gyms, health clubs and fitness studio classes) can be opened with up to

• Up to 100 patrons per enclosed space during the second half of July

• An enclosed space is an area, room or premises that is substantially enclosed by a roof and walls, regardless of whether the roof or walls are permanent or temporary, or open or closed.

• If venues have multiple floors, courtyards or separate rooms these may count as enclosed spaces.

Can I go for a drink only?

•N o. Alcohol will only be available with meals What counts as food?

•A meal must be a genuine meal – not a snack. Victorians are asked to use their judgement and drink responsibly.

Standard Operating Procedures Over recent weeks, AHA and TAA (Vic) have worked closely with the State Government and relevant government departments to develop standard operating procedures (SOPs) that will help to enable accommodation hotels to reopen in a cautious, safe and sustainable way.

The TAA (Vic) Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) document will instil confidence in consumers that Victorian accommodation properties have requisite operating protocols in place to ensure their safety, that of hotel staff and that of hotel guests. Key components of the SOPs include: •P rotocols to ensure staff wellbeing; •G eneral venue hygiene considerations; •G uest management – entry, exit, queuing, table and room service and payment, and •C heck in/out procedures plus room sanitisation and servicing.

AHA (Vic) CEO, Paddy O’Sullivan reinforced that AHA (Vic) and TAA (Vic) are pleased to be working closely with relevant government departments, the State Government and industry stakeholders to shape a roadmap toward a COVID safe and sustainable hospitality and tourism sector for Victoria.

Cleanliness is Central Hoteliers have always appreciated that cleanliness is central to a memorable hotel stay, positive guest reviews and their ability to secure repeat business.

Of course, it’s important that returning guests have confidence that they will be safe and not exposed to undue health risks. This is a responsibility that hoteliers take very seriously.

Our hotel network is to be congratulated given, from an early stage, hoteliers adopted COVID-19 related cleaning and operational protocols, including increased cleaning frequencies and sanitisation practices for staff and guests. These are in line with World Health Organization, Safe Work Australia and Department of Health and Human Services advice.

Many have also developed COVID-19 specific cleaning and disinfectant procedures, that include more frequent cleaning of high common touch areas with hospital grade products.

I know our hotel industry has greatly appreciated working with the Victorian State Government and relevant government departments to ensure we reopen in a responsible, safe and sustainable manner.

We’re all excited that this time is fast approaching!

Missed Our Latest Podcast?

A reminder that TAA (Vic) recently published our latest ‘Inside Word’ podcast with Pete Harper, Executive Vice President, JLL Hotels and Hospitality Group.

Don’t despair if you’re yet to hear it, the two-part recording can be accessed on your favourite podcast channel, by clicking on the links below.

During the podcasts, Pete discusses how COVID-19 has impacted investor confidence in the hospitality and tourism sectors; how post-pandemic investor behaviour might change; the outlook for new hotel developments; advice to operators who may have cash flow concerns, or an ageing hotel asset and investor sentiment to develop projects in regional Victoria, as intrastate and interstate trips dominate the travel landscape, in the foreseeable future.

Inside Word podcast links – Pete Harper: Apple Podcasts Spotify Google

AHAVIC.COM.AU | 27

GET THE LOWDOWN ON

AHA (VIC) AND FLOW POWER’S RENEWABLE ENERGY OFFER From July 1 2020, it’ll be easier for Victoria’s hotels to tap into low-cost renewable generation to power their pints.

In December 2019, energy retailer Flow Power announced a partnership with AHA (Vic) with help from Carlton & United Breweries to power more Victorian hotels with renewable energy through a landmark Virtual Generation Agreement (VGA).

Since then, Flow Power has heard from publicans around Victoria that are keen to get involved but have some questions about how the deal works and what it means for their bottom line.

To help AHA (Vic)’s members better understand the offer, Flow Power Account Manager Byron Trichardt has answered publicans’ most commonly asked questions.

What is a Virtual Generation Agreement (VGA)?

VGAs are a form of power purchase agreement that match businesses’ energy needs to renewable generation. These deals help businesses bring down energy costs and meet sustainability goals faster.

VGAs are an alternative to standard fixed-rate retail contracts and can offer lower rates, greater transparency by sourcing power from renewable sources. Put simply, it’s like building a solar or wind farm on a hotel but without the infrastructure - that’s why it’s “virtual”.

How does it work?

Publicans can sign onto a five-year deal starting July 1 2020, with rates starting from 8.5c/kWh. Power is sourced from Flow Power’s wind and

28 | HOTEL TODAY | APRIL / MAY 2020

solar farm partners across Victoria and matched to how a hotel uses power to get the best fit. This maximises how much renewable energy a hotel can use throughout the day.

While wind and solar prices are fixed for the duration of the agreement, you may need additional power when the wind isn’t blowing, and the sun isn’t shining. This is called ‘balance of supply’.

By matching a hotel’s energy use to renewable projects that are generating at the same time, Flow Power aims to minimise this ‘balance of supply’. Where power can’t be matched, a hotel’s energy will be sourced from the wholesale energy market.

This solution gives publicans transparency over their energy costs for the long-term, allowing for better planning and cashflow management.

What can I tell my patrons?

Publicans that make the switch can let their patrons know that their pots, pints and parmas will be powered by energy sourced from wind and solar farms in Victoria.

Australia’s pipeline of renewable energy projects is growing but it needs support from businesses taking on deals like this.

How can I get involved?

Got another question? Publicans can give Byron a call on 0459 870 713 or visit https://flowpower.com.au/aha-cub for more details.

Terms and Conditions: Members of Australian Hotels Association (Vic) must meet wholesale electricity eligibility criteria and VGA eligibility criteria. To be eligible, members of Australian Hotels Association (Vic) must have an electricity consumption in excess of 40,000 kWh p.a.

Members must also be classified as a ‘wholesale client’ under the Corporations Act 2001. Please contact Flow Power at: https://flowpower.com. au/aha-cub/ for more details.

Full disclosure: For every hotel that signs up to the offer, Carlton & United Breweries will receive a point of sale discount on its energy bill from Flow Power and share the benefits of this discount with the AHA.

FREE TRAINING OPPORTUNITY FOR HOTELS AFFECTED BY COVID-19 Are you a hospitality worker or employer who’s been affected

by COVID-19? And let’s face it, who hasn’t.

AVTES has a FREE TRAINING OPPORTUNITY for you.

A chance for you to complete a nationally recognised qualification for free.

But this is only for a limited time…

You see, we’ve had some hotel owners, and staff, get in touch recently wondering if there was a way for them to study during the down time that they suddenly have due to COVID-19 business downturn.

We are picking up the enrolment fee and resource fee for people affected by COVID-19 business downturn so there is no cost to a business or an employee to do the training.

But only until the end of April…

Of course, all training is being conducted virtually at the moment, so contact with a trainer will be via phone, email and video call. Students will receive electronic resources to complete. Any practical aspects will be covered via available evidence or upon return to normal operations.

Now, who can take advantage of this offer? Our contract allows us to deliver training to people who meet the following As a family run, hospitality-only training provider - we too criteria; Black Rhino Group – Employer of Choice rely on the hospitality industry to be training and operating • encouraged you need to be a Victorian resident to survive. We’ve workedOperations out aManager wayfor for us to assist hospitality Dean Normington, the Black As our skilled employees improve, they are Rhino Group talks about why have a focus on training to take on more responsibilities in the venue. 3 of our last and the benefits they’ve to VenueaManagers were part of the AVTES workers and businesses inseen. this time of need - appointments by offering training program. That alone speaks volumes.

• a Permanent Resident or Citizen of Australia Black Rhino’s focus is to deliver exceptional service free training opportunity. and position itself as the best offer in the local area. We A culture of knowledge and confidence means we are identified three focal points;

putting down the building blocks for a business that can

•

It’s hard to put into true dollar figures what the training has done for us, but when you have skilled, confident employees that can interact and engage customers, recommend products, up sell and improve the overall customer experience it is priceless.

• Physical and capital improvements to each of our sites promote from within, and therefore focus on expanding do not already hold a qualification at or above the to make them welcoming, safe and family friendly. knowledge. As a position of responsibility• becomes Complete a Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery or a • Provide the best products and services in all facets of available we have the team to fill the roles, and have our business which include entertainment, gaming, confidence in them being able to manage our business.

Certificate IV level Certificate IV infoodHospitality for FREE. and beverage.

Create a highly skilled staff and management team to take the business forward.

We hope this will assist businesses and workers to; We identified AVTEShospitality as a company we wanted to align with. To provide excellent training programs that upskill our leaders in the first instance, and make us an employer of choice.

>>Like I said, this offer is only available for a limited time so if you’re interested get in touch now.

AVTES’ service is, in a word, exceptional. From the first • stay engaged in the industry so they are ready when able moment we engaged AVTESto we have found them to be AVTES provides us with a great training program that is great communicators, diligent in their processes and they If interested get in touch via email alex@avtes.com.au, phone self-paced and can cover all levels of skill in our business. have provided high level training for all our students. return to work In an industry that struggles to retain staff, we can offer 0418 730 409, or registering at www.avtes.com.au. further opportunities within each of our businesses Black Rhino, through it’s engagement of AVTES as our as staff get a better grasp on all areas of operations. It preferred training provider, has seen a relationship that provides us again with the opportunity to become an useful hasto us well on ourback journey toto attain our goal of being an • build skills and knowledge that will be take employer of choice by offering formal accreditation in our employer of choice in the hospitality industry. industry. work To become an employer of choice After the initial roll out of training we were encouraged by the new skills attained by our staff and a higher standard

and improve your staff performance, retention and customer experience

hotels it engages them, and builds a relationship that will assist in growing our business.

Chris Fitzgibbon | Managing Director 0477 771 334 | chris@avtes.com.au

of service being delivered to our customers. When our get in touch with AVTES now.

• keep busy and productive (good for mental health too) customers have a great experience at any one of our

AHAVIC.COM.AU | 29

PROOF ‘EVERY DOG HAS ITS DAY’ AS CHIC HOTEL WELCOMES FURRY FRIENDS 30 | HOTEL TODAY | APRIL / MAY 2020

Everyone loves going on a holiday!

But for some, holidays mean spending time away from the ones they love most - their four legged fury friends!

The hotel industry is experiencing a boom in pet-friendly hotels to meet the lifestyle demands of their guest and Zagame’s House is one of them!

Find out why Zagame’s decided to go Fur-Friendly below!

When shaping your range of accommodation packages and room configurations, how did the idea of encouraging humans to come and stay with their canine companions take shape?

As a huge pet enthusiast and dog owner, a fur-friendly option was always something I’d hoped we could implement at Zagame’s House. I read

a stat recently that one in five pet owners miss their pets more than their kids when on holidays, which really reinforced my view - why should we leave our pets behind? In Australia (and Melbourne especially!) we are choosing to incorporate our furry friends into every aspect of our lives - they’re a part of the family! So it made total sense to me to make sure we had that offering available for our modern-day guests. After all, it has been happening in Europe and the US for decades!

What logistical challenges did you have to consider and overcome to make this concept a reality?

Offering pet-friendly accommodation options does indeed come with its challenges. We’ve had to carefully implement fur-removal and allergy

preventative measures to our housekeeping services. We provide deep carpet cleaning following every stay and incorporate high levels of food safety measures surrounding the pet food handling and preparation.

Our furry guests have their own special menu to choose from.

Additionally, we’ve made close connections with local pet grooming salons to ensure we can always offer top service for both guests and their companions.

We also provide fur-friendly goodie bags, we limit the pets to a maximum of two per room, and we encourage regular bathroom breaks, with our Maître Z even offering dog walking services!

AHAVIC.COM.AU | 31

But let’s not forget, the majority of Australian homes have dogs. Many of us even have them in our beds (guilty)! So the concept of dogs sharing space with humans isn’t exactly a mystery. We certainly though comply with council legislation around food service areas and of course take the comfort of all of our guests on-board.

Are these limited time, or on-going guest accommodation options?

These fur-friendly options will be ongoing! We’ve seen huge success and received amazing feedback on all of our fur-friendly stays, so we’ll certainly be looking to keep this up! When my dog Hugo is in the Lounge Room (lobby area), the amount of seriousfaced corporates rushing off to a big day at work that end up leaving with a big smile is almost a 100 per cent strike rate.

How have ideas from different departments within the hotel been incorporated into how the concept has evolved?

As a hotel full of pet-enthusiasts we all had plenty of ideas of how to bring this concept to life. Beverage and

32 | HOTEL TODAY | APRIL / MAY 2020

Food were keen to ensure that we could offer pet-friendly room service options, including both wet and dry options, and also allow for dietary requirements!

Basically our goal was to be able to offer the same or similar service offering to our furry friends as we give our (generally speaking) smoother ones. We offer guests free movies and there are always colourful/animal movies in this selection. Guests can have in-room beauty treatments; so too can our pups.

We’ve recently introduced a ‘Maître Z’ role also, which combines the role

of personal butler, personal trainer, chauffeur and dog-walker - into one unique role!

Tell us about the response from guests – have you seen an increase in enquires and bookings from dog lovers, keen not to be parted from their pooch?

We’ve had such a wonderful response from both guests and their fur-babies.

Whether our guests are staying for holidays, work or a staycation - we’ve seen some of the best fur-babies come through our doors (and some fantastic guests). It’s been really positive to see plenty of repeat customers and referrals too!

How have you managed feedback and interaction from guests who perhaps aren’t so keen to be sharing a special occasion with the pets of other guests?

We have had a couple guests enquire about the level of access available to furry-friends in the hotel - however the hotel has plenty of shared spaces which do not allow for pets. We have dedicated pet-friendly rooms which means no one ever feels overwhelmed or overrun by the pooches! Once our guests understand this – it has not been an issue!

Have you received any positive press from news outlets keen to promote this innovative offer?

We’ve had some very positive press, including Broadsheet, The Australian and The Hotel Conversation - we’ve also invited media such as Gourmet Traveller to stay and to experience our fur-friendly offering.

Have you experienced any unexpected challenges or surprises when offering these experiences to your guests?

Our guests are extremely understanding when it comes to travelling with pets. We haven’t had any unexpected challenges or surprises, only happy owners being able to travel with their pets! We do include T&Cs on our website in relation to our fur-friendly offerings to ensure we don’t experience these unexpected challenges or surprises!

As mentioned before, Hugo and many other cute fur-balls in-house have brought nothing but smiles to the faces of guests and staff. Some of our two-legged guests on the other hand………

Have any related new business opportunities arisen as a result of offering these pet-friendly accommodation options?

We have our fur-friendly bag of goodies which we provide to each pet that stays with us! We have also partnered with The Lost Dogs’ Home to donate $10 from each fur-friendly stay. Another partner is boutique dog groomers, Hachi Melbourne, who offer twenty per cent off grooming to all pets that stay at Zagame’s House!

To book your fur-friend in for a V.I.Pooch Experience, visit Zagame’s House website to view all the terms and conditions.

66 Lygon Street, Carlton, Melbourne, Victoria 3053 W: www.zagameshouse.com.au E: info@zagameshouse.com.au Ph: (03) 9084 7777

AHAVIC.COM.AU | 33

Pawfect!

CANINE COMPANIONS IN THEIR ELEMENT AT SWANKY RICHMOND DIGS CAMPING SITES AND CARAVAN PARKS ARE OFTEN THE HOLIDAY DESTINATION OF CHOICE WHEN IT COMES TO TAKING YOUR PET – BUT NOW LUXURY HOTELS ARE TAKING THE REINS (OR LEASH) TO GO ABOVE AND BEYOND FOR THEIR GUESTS’ FURRY FRIENDS. Element Melbourne Richmond is among a select few Melbourne hotels to offer pet-friendly hotel rooms.

Read below to find out why and how Element Melbourne Richmond decided to go pet-friendly!

When shaping your range of accommodation packages and room

34 | HOTEL TODAY | APRIL / MAY 2020

configurations, how did the idea of encouraging humans to come and stay with their canine companions take shape?

We decided that Element Melbourne Richmond would be pet-friendly so that our guests could travel with all their loved ones - four-legged friends included. We know that travel looks different for each guest, and that people are now travelling with multiple generations of family, friends and even their pets. We also believe that time away from home shouldn’t mean time away from life, so in being pet-friendly, we’ve tried to ensure that all our guests feel welcome and

comfortable while on the road. No matter who they’re travelling with.

When the hotel was being designed, we knew there would be five rooms with balconies, so also saw this as an ideal opportunity to welcome pets.

Plus, we also saw a lack of hotels in the Melbourne market with this offering!

What logistical challenges did you have to consider and overcome to make this concept a reality?

There were a lot of considerations that went into our pet-friendly offering, especially around the safety

and comfort of the pets and their owners as well as those that may not be staying with a pet.

The five balcony rooms that are allocated for those travelling with pets are at the end of the hallways, away from other rooms, and we allocate the other guest rooms appropriately.

Guests are not allowed to leave their pet in the room while they go out, and this is clarified at check in with a waiver form that they must sign.

We’ve ensured that we have dog beds, food bowls and toys available, and we are nearby to great parks and the walking track that follows the Yarra River. We also scouted local companies and suppliers that run tours around Melbourne and to the Yarra Valley that welcome both travellers and their furry friends.

For those that aren’t travelling with a pet, all pet-friendly rooms and areas that pets are allowed to explore are always thoroughly cleaned, and we charge an $80 cleaning/restoration fee for any guests staying with a pet. Pets are also not allowed in our restaurant, Mint Lane – though it does have an adjoining outdoor area that’s open to all. There’s also a weight limit on pets for the safety of all staying with us; we can only welcome pets weighing 20 kilograms or less.

Are these limited time, or on-going guest accommodation options?

We will always be pet-friendly!

Sometimes we offer different deals or treats for those travelling with pets. Make sure you keep an eye out on our Facebook and Instagram for updates!

How have ideas from different departments within the hotel been incorporated into how the concept has evolved?

Our food and beverage and housekeeping teams have been integral to the success of our petfriendly offering.

Our talented chef has created a dog degustation menu that’s available to order through room service. Dishes include ‘The Good Dog’ (market fish with steamed carrot), ‘The Quarter Hounder’ (pan fried steak with green vegetables) and ‘pupsicles’ for a treat.

There also a special minibar loaded with dog-friendly snacks available for purchase.

Our housekeeping team helps source the dog beds and toys we offer. The team ensures that the dog bed and toys are ecofriendly to match Element Melbourne Richmond’s eco-conscious focus.

AHAVIC.COM.AU | 35

Tell us about the response from guests – have you seen an increase in enquires and bookings from dog lovers, keen not to be parted from their pooch?

Guests love our pet-friendly offering! As mentioned, people are increasingly travelling with their fourlegged friends. Over the Christmas and New Year period, we had four dogs (and their owners) staying with us. Interestingly, we’ve also welcomed guests and their pets who are relocating or moving house.

The offering really provides greater flexibility.

The associates at Element Melbourne Richmond have also enjoyed welcoming pets; pooches often receive a lot of attention when they check in and throughout their stay from our team and other guests alike.

How have you managed feedback and interaction from guests who perhaps aren’t so keen to be sharing a special occasion with the pets of other guests?

We’ve had strict protocols when it comes to cleaning, room allocation, pet safety and weight limits and the places pets can and can’t go in the hotel from day one. Thanks to this, we haven’t had any complaints.

Have you received any positive press from news outlets keen to promote this innovative offer?

Yes, we have! Most notably, our pet-

36 | HOTEL TODAY | APRIL / MAY 2020

friendly offering has been featured in a segment on Channel 7’s Sunrise, and also in the Herald Sun. This is in addition to numerous articles in key media outlets mentioning the offering.

We’re so proud of this, especially as we’ve been open less than a year.

Have you experienced any unexpected challenges or surprises when offering these experiences to your guests?

Our furry friends have all been ‘pawfect’ guests. Again, this is thanks to the strict protocols in place around cleaning, room allocation, pet safety and weight limits and the places pets can and can’t go in the hotel.

Have any related new business opportunities arisen as a result of offering these pet-friendly accommodation options?

Not as yet! But it is something we have in the pipeline for 2020, so watch this space.

Element Melbourne Richmond is conveniently located along the Yarra River for your morning strolls with your pooch, so make sure to visit Element Melbourne Richmond website to view the range of rooms that would be the “Purrfect” fit for you and your pet.

Element Melbourne Richmond 588 Swan Street, Richmond, Melbourne 3121 Ph: (03) 9112 8888

Give your customers the option of takeaway and/or delivery of food and beverages.

Click & Collect - YourOrder platform enables your customers to place orders online to your venue for food and alcohol while respecting your licensing regulations.

Fully integrated and synchronised with Bepoz Point of Sale.

No double entry of orders, orders directly print to the kitchen.

Stock decrementation on sales, and all sales included in Bepoz reporting.

Fully supported by our help-desk.

In an effort to do what we can to support our valued customers during these incredibly challenging times we are waiving most of the set-up costs associated with implementing this service.

If you think you can benefit by using this platform, please get in touch: sales@vectron.com.au

CALL US TODAY

1300 832 876

www.vectron.com.au

IN THE PURSUIT OF HOPPINESS MICHELLE MEAGER | ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT COORDINATOR | M.MEAGER@AHAVIC.COM.AU

H AVIN G A B E E R IS ALL ABOUT RE LAXING AND HAVI NG FU N . IT S H OULDN’T BE TAKE N TOO SE RIOUSLY. WITH A TON O F E XPE RIE NCE BOT H POURING PINTS A ND R UNN ING A PU B, M ICHE LLE KNOWS WHAT SHE IS TA LK ING ABOUT. JOIN HE R AS SHE TAKE S A LIGHTHEA RTED LOOK AT T HE LAT E ST BE E RS ON T HE M ARKE T.

HOP TO IT HOP NATION BREWING CO

THE CHOP IPA 7%

Chop. A word with many meanings. A smack in the chops. Lamb Chop. Getting the chop. To hack at something. The act of cutting something with an axe, which is found on the label of Hop Nation Brewing Co’s The Chop IPA. Here it represents the ‘chopped up take of a variety of IPA’s hailing from the USA’. The boys from Footscray, as you can guess by their name, love their hops. Here they have produced a hazy, golden IPA with a bright white head. Passionfruit aromas swirl around the glass. Even though it claims to be a chopped up take, it is well balanced example of the style. Tropical notes sit on your tongue, bright and tangy.

And for 7% ABU there’s none of that alcohol heaviness that you sometimes find.

So, chop, chop! Get to it. Grab The Chop for a real hop smack in the chops!

www.hopnation.com.au

38 | HOTEL TODAY | APRIL / MAY 2020

OLD WIVES ALES

EXIT BREWING

5.8%

3.5%

HAIR OF THE DOG XPA A night on the tiles, one too many, perhaps the next day the hair of the dog to cure the hangover. Just an old wives tale? Well, what if it was the Hair of the Dog that got you there in the first place?

A hazy, bright golden colour, the citrusy hop aromas fill the glass, a sign you’re about to indulge in something a little bit extra.

Clean, bright and zingy, but unfortunately there’s not the hops you expect upfront. As it lingers in your mouth the hops do build. It’s packed full of hops so you deserve more of a hop payout with that first sip. If you don’t get to the old dog quickly and he warms up and that’s when those solid hop flavours really shine.

The X for ‘extra hoppy, extra pale, extra dry’ is certain, but it might also mean you’ll be reaching for an extra Hair of the Dog.

www.oldwivesales.com

SXPA

Sessional beers-when you want to be able to settle in and have a few. The problem with a lot of Pale Ales is the intense hop flavours make it hard to kick back and enjoy several, and when you add their high ABV percentage in, it can be hard to stand back up.

Enter the sessional XPA-all the hoppy goodness without the alcohol to knock you around.

Exit Brewing’s example makes it the perfect choice for an Xtra long weekend. The tropical hoppy aroma is what you expect from this very pale golden SXPA. It’s light in flavour, matching the 3.5% ABV. It tingles on your tongue, a fresh summery drink, but it somehow keeps the hoppiness there for you to savour.

If you’re up for a session and are searching out a hop fix, make sure you take this Exit.

www.exitbrewing.com

TALLBOY & MOOSE

HEY PRESTO DRY HOPPED LAGER 4.5%

Bullwinkle was fond of saying ‘Hey Rocky, watch me pull a rabbit out of my hat’. He wasn’t a great magician and there was never a rabbit, but if a can of Tallboy & Moose Hey Presto Dry Hopped Lager appeared, he wouldn’t have been disappointed.

Poured into a glass, ‘Voila’, a hazy, golden straw coloured lager with a thin white head emerges. Tallboy & Moose promised a dry hopped lager, and they delivered. The hop aroma intensifies, as it should. A hoppy punch sits on your tongue.

It’s bitter, dry and long lasting.

Best drunk ice cold, the lager clings to the sides of the glass, no disappearing tricks here. Motueka and Mandarina Bavaria hops combine, ‘Ta Da’, the citrusy kick sates.

If you’re looking for an easy drinking, hopalicously good lager then Tallboy & Moose have done it with Hey Presto, a trick any good magician would be proud to have up their sleeve.

www.tallboyandmoose.com AHAVIC.COM.AU | 39

AHA VICTORIA RECIPIENT OF WORKSAFE VICTORIA WORKWELL FUNDING TO CREATE MENTALLY HEALTHY WORKPLACES IN THE HOTEL & PUB INDUSTRY WORKSAFE’S WORKWELL LEARNING NETWORKS AIM TO PROMOTE MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLBEING AND PREVENT MENTAL ILLNESS AND INJURY AMONGST VULNERABLE WORKING COHORTS OF STAFF WHICH ARE DEFINED AS YOUNG WORKERS, AGEING WORKERS, FRONTLINE WORKERS AND INDUSTRIES IN TRANSITION (GROWTH AND DECLINE).

As part of servicing member enquiries, the Workplace Relations team identified an opportunity for our members and submitted an application to WorkSafe Victoria for funding to support the development of a Learning Network within our association.

Participants of the Learning Network include Zagames, ALH, Sand Hill Road, Australian Venue Co, Marlo Hotel, Riverland, Red Rock Leisure, PubCo, Black Rhino and Hunter Group & Hyatt and collectively represent over 30% of the AHA Vic membership base.

The Learning Network convened in October 2019 to understand the 11 pre-defined work-related factors which are proven to have a positive bearing on creating mentally healthy workplaces. This session was facilitated by a credible organisational psychologist from Communicorp.

Funding for the Learning Network officially commenced from 3, February 2020 and participating members are now completing stage one of the project. This includes the completion of online comprehensive surveys to gather baseline data from employers and staff regarding their experience of the venue.

The data will then be collated across all of the participating members to identify the top three work-related factors which are of high importance and require the development and deployment of interventions within the industry. The Learning Network will reconvene shortly.

Stay tuned for what are the three top priorities for our industry & how we can proactively address them to create mentally healthy workplaces!

Kathryn Zammit • Workplace Relations Advisor • k.zammit@ahavic.com.au • (03) 9654 7100

40 | HOTEL TODAY | APRIL / MAY 2020

Gallagher Bassett – GB Assist Service Rapid Response Support to Australian Businesses With the current uncertainty during the COVID19 crisis, the GB Assist Team has scaled up to provide our clients specialist expertise and resourcing for businesses, enabling you to confidently focus on your core business priorities.

The GB Assist team are ready to assume key roles and accountability for you when you need us most.

We understand: • Businesses are focusing staff on the most essential business functions. Stretching or redirecting your injury management and HR capabilities can affect response times, RTW performance and increase your premium and financial risk exposure • Health directives and personal commitments are likely to impact your workforce, these impacts include: • Taking leave to care of vulnerable family members • Increased stress about health risks with some choosing to self-regulate with social distancing • Imposed working from home policies and procedures • Staff working remotely may not be able to deliver all functions or operate as effectively • Injury Management performance may slip, potentially exposing your business to multiple years of premium penalty

• Increased complexity in managing workers compensation entitlements and obligations e.g. work related COVID-19, working from home and returning workers to suitable employment in challenging economic times • Difficulties being experienced accessing quality treatment and assessment providers We are geared up and ready to work with you, to understand your needs and will rapidly on board our team to respond to your requirements.

The GB Assist Team have been reducing risk and injury costs in the workplace for over 20 years. GB’s team specialises in guiding clients as we assume prevention injury management, wellbeing, and governance responsibilities typically reducing real claim costs by 40 to 60% in the first year and an excellent track record of continuing to reduce costs year on year.

We protect an employer’s best interests, delivering effective leadership, bridging gaps, mitigating risks and possible financial exposure. We work with you to manage costs and mitigate adverse impact on your premium. Program support ranges from three months to long term support.

24 hour Rapid on Boarding

• Client Meeting • Risk assessment/ business requirements • Existing Process Review • \GB Service Overview

• Critical function & process mapping • On boarding communications plan developed • Regulator/Insurer notifications

• Virtual Stakeholder meeting -Client business introductions • Communication plan implementation • Resource and process implementation

• Handover and injured worker introductions • New injury notifications redirected to GB’s Injury Management

High Level Injury Management Process

• Worker advises Injury to Supervisor / Manager • Worker seeks appropriate initial treatment • Complete Incident Report

• GB IM engages • Contact employee, supervisor, medical provider, employer • Gather evidence and endorse Incident report

• Initiate Return To Work Plan to drive RTW outcomes • Early Intervention Strategies • Claim Lodged if required • Execute oversight and RTW focus

• Engage injured worker, supervisor and treaters in RTW plan, working toward full a clearance and sustainable return to work goal • Aligned to Client Strategies

To discuss GB Assist support please contact us P: 1300 975 609 | E: myGB@gbtpa.com.au

DAY 1 X Cargo, Fortitude Valley

Osbourne Hotel

Hotel Carrington

DAY 2 Eatons Hill

42 | HOTEL TODAY | APRIL / MAY 2020

AHA QLD multi award winning venue!

The Glen Hotel

The Montague

e

AFTER A SOLD OUT TRIP TO SYDNEY IN 2019, WE HEADED TO BRISBANE TO EXPERIENCE TO BEST OF THEIR HOSPITALITY. IT WAS A MEMORABLE TRIP FOR OUR MEMBERS AND PARTNERS, WITH A HOST OF INSIGHTS BEING TAKEN FROM SOME OF THE BEST HOSPITALITY VENUES IN AUSTRALIA.

Hello Gorgeous

Felons Brewing Co.

Emporium Hotel, South Bank.

Little Big House

AHAVIC.COM.AU | 43

“WE LIKE TO THINK THE GROVEY HAS A LITTLE BIT FOR EVERYONE” THAT IS HOW JOEL TAYLOR, PUBLICAN AT THE GROVEDALE HOTEL, DESCRIBES THE PUB. “It’s a large hotel broken up into smaller individual venues,” Joel said.

“The Members End is our sports bar consisting of two bars, video wall plus big screen TVs, TAB, beer garden and dining area, a spot to catch all the live sports action.

“Right next door you’ll find The Juke Garden Bar, a streetscape style bar with retractable roof, giant mural, cobblestone floors and rustic furniture. Pumping tunes and cocktails every night, with live music on the weekends.

44 | HOTEL TODAY | APRIL / MAY 2020

“The Pioneer Kitchen is our dining room, a full service restaurant which seats nearly 250 but has been broken up into more intimate spaces. It produces great modern Australian and European cuisine.

“Then there is our gaming room, featuring 80 machines, breakout lounge featuring TAB facilities and outdoor terrace. There is always lots going on!”

Grovedale is a large suburban area on the south side of the Barwon River, on the outskirts of Geelong. There is a small industrial estate nearby but mostly the pub is surrounded by residents.

“I think that the Grovedale hotel plays a big part in the local community,” Joel said.

“We are active in the football, netball and cricket clubs and often host community group meetings. The majority of our customers are from the area.

“I get a real sense that the pub has played quite a role in a lot of people’s lives as a meeting place and a place for celebrations.”

Like many pubs in Victoria, the Grovedale are regular nominees at the AHA (Vic) State Awards for Excellence. The nomination process has proved worth valuable for his business as Joel explains.

“We always find the nomination process pretty easy,” Joel said.

“I think the key for us was making sure we were in the right categories.

I really liked the idea of the best pub bar category and that suited us well.

“The judging is always good, we have received some good feedback over recent years which gave us some key points to improve on. We really took that on board.

“This year as always the judging was super discreet and we had no idea we had been visited.”

Our State Awards are always the biggest night of the year and it is certainly an event that Joel and his staff look forward to.

“The awards night last year was great, my team always really looks forward to the event,” Joel said.

AHAVIC.COM.AU | 45

“It’s such a great night to see those industry friends you don’t get to see that much.”

“It is great to head to Melbourne for a night out, and when it is for such a huge event like the AHA (Vic) awards, it’s pretty exciting.

“For anyone thinking of going this year, I’d tell them to catch up with as many people as you can. It’s such a great night to see those industry friends you don’t get to see that much. The awards are great but the catch ups are where its at.”

It was certainly a special night for Joel and the team at the Grovedale back in November. The pub claimed Best Casual Dining – Regional, Best Pub Bar – Regional & the prestigious Ian Larkin Overall Hotel of the Year – Regional. An incredible night, which Joel did not see coming.

“I was stoked and a bit shocked to be honest,” Joel said.

“I was certainly not expecting it. We have been nominated for the Best Overall Hotel – Regional previously and it is such a tough award to win.

46 | HOTEL TODAY | APRIL / MAY 2020

“After the night, our customers were very excited for us, lots of them mentioned they had heard about the awards and knew how big it was for the pub.

“We noticed a bit of a boost in trade from the publicity it brought. Loads of customers we hadn’t seen in a while were coming back in.

“We first began renovation on the Grovey in 2014 completing it in late 2015 and have continually tried to improve the hotels food beverage and service in that time.

“But I think our thirst for improvement and wanting to really establish The Grovey as a complete hospitality destination has kept driving us forward.

“We began entering the AHA (Vic) awards and picked up a few along the way but were never able to crack the top prize. As time has gone on we have got better at what we do and its great to be recognized for that.”

“I think we still have a bit to do but hospitality is something that never stops improving and I want our hotel to be the same,”

The success of the Grovey at the 2019 Awards can be put down to many things but Joel is adamant on the main reason behind it.

“We’ve had our share of ups and downs over the last five or so years, some ideas have worked well others have flopped,” Joel said.

“I just want to thank the AHA for giving the industry a platform to showcase the great venues that are out there.”

The Grovedale Hotel 236-258 Torquay Road p: 03 5243 2814 w: grovedalehotel.com.au

“I think it is great to get recognised for the hard work and effort, but we will always keep pushing for improvements in our operation because I honestly think that’s the best approach.”

On the night, John Taylor, Joel’s father, mentioned that the award was won over a five year period of sustained excellence. Joel is clear about the improvements made by the pub over that time.

“Well we have had a few attempts over the years at the awards,” Joel said.

AHAVIC.COM.AU | 47

48 | HOTEL TODAY | APRIL / MAY 2020

GRAND HOTEL JUNCTION TRARALGON IS AT THE HEART OF THE LATROBE VALLEY. JUST OVER 150KM EAST OF MELBOURNE, ON THE PRINCES HIGHWAY, IT LIES AT THE INTERSECTION OF MANY A GIPPSLAND ADVENTURE. AS THE REGION’S ENTERTAINMENT CAPITAL, TRARALGON HAS AN EVER-EXPANDING CHOICE OF TOP-NOTCH DINING OPTIONS AND A THRIVING PUB SCENE.

Our main aim has always been and always will be to keep the locals happy Grand Junction Hotel is one of the oldest hotels in Traralgon. It has been one of the community’s favourite ‘locals’ and a popular stop for weary travellers for over 120 years.

It all started with a free lunch to celebrate the opening of the hotel in 1885 and while the building and its name have remained the same the hotel has undertaken several facelifts over the years to evolve with the times, the original building was a red brick classic building with a veranda around the whole hotel which also served as an impressive second story balcony.

The first facelift to the venue was when veranda posts were added to the balcony in the early 1900’s. In the 1980’s a second story balcony was removed and the building was modernized to suit the times with a sleek box like exterior. The most recent renovation has just finished and has

completely changed the venue to bring it into the twenty-first century.

Hotel Today spoke to current publican Annette Vogt about the renovation of the pub and her part in the history of the Grand Junction Hotel.

“The Vogt family have been in the Gippsland hospitality industry for over 50 years having owned many hotels throughout Gippsland,” Annette said.

“As a family, the Vogts have owned the Grand Junction Hotel since 1991 and myself along with my partner Peter have been proud to run the Grand Junction Hotel for nearly 30 years.

“In terms of the renovation, we wanted to create an amazing modern and inviting space for locals to visit. The aim was to bring some of Melbourne to Gippsland for everyone to enjoy.

The centre of the hotel was completely

gutted, and a centralised bar created with a dedicated sports bar with a massive video wall playing all the big games live, plus a state of the art beer system designed to bring the freshest beer to our customers.”

“The aim was to create a light and open feel with sleek modern look. We also added a lift to our upstairs event area and created a small cubby for the kids.

“Like so many pubs, we are a family pub and wanted to be a welcoming environment for everyone.”

The Glasshouse is the new function space at the heart of the refurbishment at the Grand Junction. As Annette explains it is crucial to her business and gives the pub extra flexibility in its offering to customers.

“We had customers looking for a smaller area apart from our larger

AHAVIC.COM.AU | 49

upstairs event spaces so we wanted to create a different environment for events so the Glass House was create,” “It is a glassed area looking out to the sports bar, with a semi open roof, gorgeous tiles and plants decorating the walls, its own seating and menus create an outdoor feel in the middle of the hotel. We have also added 437 speakers to the sports bar ceiling, to add another dimension to our offering.

“It is all about creating something different and giving people a reason to come out and spend an evening at the pub.

Traralgon and Gippsland as a whole is a tight community. As part of the renovation process, Annette was adamant about using local traders as part of the refurbishment, as well as other aspects of the pub.

“Traralgon has an ever-expanding choice of top-notch dining options and a thriving pub scene…”

“That to us is the most important part of our business, supporting your local community as much as you can,” Annette said.

“The build was done by a local builder and tradies and our fitout suppliers where all local. Our architects were the TM group from Port Melbourne.

“We are always actively supporting local fundraisers and we sponsor and support our local football/netball and cricket clubs.

“We proudly use locally supplied products for our menus from our local butchers to our fruit and vegetable suppliers.”

With all this, Annette has transformed the pub and given the reaction of her customers, it is safe to say it was worth the effort.

“Our main aim has always been and always will be to keep the locals happy,” Annette said.

“It was business as usual during the renovation period and with the help of patient patrons the changes have been amazing. We are also seeing many new locals joining our family at the Grand Junction Hotel which is great to see.”

The Grand Junction Hotel | 22 Franklin Street, Traralgon | p: (03) 5174 6011 | w: grandjunctionhotel.com.au

50 | HOTEL TODAY | APRIL / MAY 2020

NOW AVAILABLE FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: CHRIS STRONG - STATE MANAGER LICENSED VIC/TAS - M: 0427 348 382 TO PLACE AN ORDER CALL THE CCA ORDER HOTLINE ON 13COKE (13 2653)

FIGHT MND AS THE CHARITY ARM OF AHA (VIC), HOTELCARE RAISES AND DISTRIBUTES FUNDS TO WORTHY CHARITIES AND ORGANISATIONS. AT THE END OF LAST YEAR, THE HOTELCARE GOLF DAY TOOK PLACE AT THE VICTORIA GOLF CLUB AND RAISED A RECORD $600,000, WITH ALL THE MONEY GOING TOWARDS DESERVING PROGRAMS AND CHARITIES. THIS IS ADDITIONALLY SUPPORTED BY HOSTPLUS THROUGH THE HOTELCARE COMMUNITY CARE PROGRAMME.

Fight MND is one of the charities which has benefited from HotelCare and the money raised at the recent Golf Day. Hotel Today sat down with Andrew Holmes, Communications Manager of the organisation and he started by outlining the origins of the charity.

“FightMND was founded in 2014 by three people affected by the disease; AFL legend Neale Daniher, the late Dr. Ian Davis and Pat Cunningham,” Andrew said.

“Neale and Ian, both MND sufferers, and Pat (who lost his wife Angie to MND in 2016) joined together to form the Cure for MND Foundation (now FightMND) with the purpose of fundraising for research into discovering effective treatments and ultimately a cure. Currently, there is neither.”

52 | HOTEL TODAY | APRIL / MAY 2020

Motor Neurone Disease (MND) is a terminal neurological disease. MND attacks and kills the motor neurons within the body that are required for muscle movement until they waste away and die.

and drug trials to find an effective treatment and ultimately a cure for Motor Neurone Disease. Fight MND also provides assistive care equipment to many Australians fighting the disease.

As these neurons die, sufferers gradually lose their ability to move, speak, swallow and breathe, usually resulting in paralysis. There is no treatment to reverse or slow this process down.

To do all this, there is a great need to raise substantial amounts of money to undertake world leading research and provide first class care, as Andrew explains.

“The average life expectancy from diagnosis to death is just 27 months,” Andrew said.

“Two Australians are diagnosed with MND each day, another two lose the fight. “ The core aim of Fight MND is to generate greater awareness of the disease, to fund world-class research

“FightMND directs funds raised to world leading research, in Australia and overseas including drug development projects and clinical drug trials,” Andrew said.

“FightMND adopts rigorous, robust and transparent processes when it comes to identifying research projects and awarding funding grants.

FightMND also invests funds into care initiatives, including vital assistive

D

equipment for Australians living with MND. “Since inception, FightMND has invested $36.7million into research projects and initiatives. This investment includes $13.4million into 10 clinical trials and $9.7million into 10 drug development projects.

“FightMND has also funded a world first drug screening platform at the Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health in Victoria.

“People with MND require care, both physical care and care equipment.

FightMND invests $2.5million annually to care service providers to ensure

that those Australians living with MND have the care required to deliver as quality a life as possible despite their declining health.”

From its foundation six years ago, Fight MND has grown to become one of the most recognisable charities in Australia. This is due to the incredible work of its staff and the huge events that they help put on throughout the year and throughout the country.

“FightMND’s major annual fundraiser is the Big Freeze at the MCG,” Andrew said.

“The 2020 instalment of the Big Freeze will be the sixth event and

is held prior to the annual Queen’s Birthday AFL clash between Melbourne & Collingwood. A series of celebrity sliders will plunge into a pool of ice to help ‘freeze MND’ and the event has raised millions of dollars to invest in medical research.

“The Big Freeze beanies have become an iconic part of the event and the beanies are on sale from early May for approximately six weeks for just $20.

“FightMND also stage two other annual fundraisers - Daniher’s Drive and Sockit2MND. Daniher’s Drive is a four day road trip through rural and regional Australia fundraising along the way and visiting towns and communities that support FightMND. Approximately 100 cars and 350 people form the Drive convoy each year.

“Sockit2MND is a community grassroots sports club campaign whereby clubs buy blue socks, fin sizes for all sports and players of all ages, and teams wear them during the Sockit2MND Round each year.”

Nealhe Danniher has played a huge role is raising the profile of both the charity and awareness of MND. A former Essendon player and

AHAVIC.COM.AU | 53

“Without Neale’s efforts, FightMND would not exist and the awareness of MND would not be where it is at the moment, nor would the level of fundraising achieved” Melbourne Coach, Neale is one of four brothers making up part of the Daniher football dynasty.

Diagnosed with MND in 2013, Neale’s continued determination to live life to the fullest, and face the challenges this disease brings with courage, humour, and a drive to help prevent the suffering of those that may be diagnosed with this disease in the future, is truly inspiring.

“Neale’s impact is unlikely to be surpassed,” Andrew said.

“Neale has lived his disease in the public eye for seven years and the public have seen his condition deteriorate, mobilising the message of how devastation the condition is.

Neale has been selfless and wanted to do something for generations to come.

“He knows MND will take his life soon, but he has worked tirelessly, both publicly and privately, to ensure lives are not always lost in the future.

Without Neale’s efforts, FightMND

54 | HOTEL TODAY | APRIL / MAY 2020

would not exist and the awareness of MND would not be where it is at the moment, nor would the level of fundraising achieved.”

“Financial donations are always the simplest way but we also encourage people to be active and participate in your fundraising,” Andrew said.

Going forward, Fight MND are looking to maintain the momentum they currently have and to ensure the charity is sustainable.

“This includes buying beanies, buy socks, registering and participating in Daniher’s Drive, organise your own community fundraiser including local and community mini Big Freeze events. There is also the opportunity to join Team FightMND in fun runs, walks, cycling events to name a few.

“We want to grow the FightMND Army and continue to ensure Neale’s legacy is maintained and enhanced,” Andrew said.

“The charity is the custodian of the work Neale has achieved in shining the light on a previously relatively unknown disease and providing hope for those diagnosed in the future.”

A huge part of the success of Fight MND has been the way Australians have got around the charity and got involved in a variety of fund raising events. As Andrew explains, there are many ways to get involved and help Fight MND.

“We encourage people to get involved and make the FightMND brand visible.

Neale wants to always put the fun into fundraising. Workplace giving and fundraising is also very popular so there are large and small opportunities available and the FightMND team are only too willing to assist in organising any event people wish to hold.”

For more information about the charity and to find out more about how to get involved, please visit fightmnd.org.au

AussieNRG can give expert advice and help you

AussieNRG’s professional network can have you saving money on your electricity bill right out of the gate!

From

To

Peak Rate

11.121 c/kWh

7.861 c/kWh

Off Peak Rate

8.839/kWh

4.874 c/kWh

Total savings over 1 year contract �115,243

Daily metering charge

From

To

�110.12/da

�11.92/da

Total savings over 4 years contract �111,972

Maximum load factor

From

To

120 kW/mth: �11,464.33/mt

83 kW/mth: �11,075/mt

Total savings over 4 years contract �118,240

Name: ________________________________________________ Email:

________________________________________________

Phone: ________________________________________________ Address: ________________________________________________

SMS, fax or email this completed form along with a recent energy bill, and we’ll get back to you ASAP!

SMS: 0409 377 852 Phone: 1300 440 224 Fax: (03) 9923 6645 Email: contactus@aussienrg.com

Australian Hotels Association (VIC) Insurance Solution Adroit Insurance and Risk are proud partners of the Australian Hotel Association (VIC). We offer AHA members exclusive risk management and insurance solutions. Our experienced team’s deep industry specialisation adds value, knowledge and insight to your business.

We are available 24/7 and work with agility and care to make sure your business is minimally disrupted by the impact of claims. With nine offices throughout Victoria, Adroit is perfectly suited to service the AHA (Vic) membership, all at a competitive price.

Contact us today for an obligation free review.

1300 My Adroit mail@myadroit.com.au | myadroit.com.au General insurance services are provided by Adroit Insurance & Risk Pty Ltd ABN 75 078972 700 AFSL 244 348

WILLIAM ANGLISS TEAM UP WITH UNITING AGEWELL

SEVEN COOKERY STUDENTS ARE STARTING THE NEW CERTIFICATE III IN CATERING OPERATIONS TO SUPPORT THEIR CAREERS WORKING IN THE AGED CARE SECTOR. Working with Uniting AgeWell, Vigneesh Selvaraja is pursuing his passion for baking and cooking.

“As a cook and chef since 2013, I have wanted some additional training so was thrilled when my employer sponsored me to do this,” Vigneesh said.

“I am hoping to be head chef and manage my own kitchen in the near future - as I will have the skills to be able to help someone else within the industry to perform in an effective and safe manner.

58 | HOTEL TODAY | APRIL / MAY 2020

“This course combines cookery and aged care aspects into the syllabus.

This training is important as we all know aged care is an ever growing industry where we will all need to know the basics and advanced knowledge to prepare food for the elderly, especially catering to their dietary needs and allergies.”

Student Daeanna Sutton is one of a group of cooking students doing the course as part of her employment with Uniting AgeWell.

“As we look after the residents it is important to look after our residents and know about the dietary requirements as well,” Daeanna said.

Certificate III in Catering Operations (Release 1) is tailored to meet the growing needs of the Aged Care Longevity sector and sets a new

benchmark for quality training within the industry. Participants will train with some independence using plans, policies and procedures to guide work activities covering nutrition, presentation and food textures. If you are currently working in the industry and are looking to formalise your skills, are a school leaver or new hospitality industry entrant looking to work in Aged Care Longevity, this course is for you.

William Angliss Institute is a recognised industry leader and specialist centre.

Our expert instructors are dedicated to delivering a course that will provide you with quality outcomes.

For more information visit angliss.edu.au

GREAT LEADERS ARE MADE, NOT BORN NEW TRAINING

TO FIND OUT MORE OR BOOK NOW CONTACT ALEX: alex@avtes.com.au | 0418 730 409

New Hotel Members HOTEL NAME

SUBURB

CONTACT

Frying Pan Inn

Falls Creek

Shannon Exelby

Ocean Grove Hotel

Ocean Grove Andrew McDonough

LICENSEE

DIVISION

Traverse Alpine Catering Pty Ltd McPetti Pty Ltd

Wodonga Bellarine Peninsula

Transfers of Licence DATE GRANTED

HOTEL NAME

LICENCE GRANTED TO

DATE GRANTED

NAME

LICENCE GRANTED TO

1/02/2020

Apollo Bay Dragon Bay Inn

4/02/2020

Botanical Hotel, South Yarra

10/02/2020

The Bay & Bridge Hotel, Port Melbourne

11/02/2020

Tangambalanga Hotel

11/02/2020

Barrelhouse Botanic Gardens, Melbourne

14/02/2020

Benchwarmer, West Melbourne

14/02/2020

Wesley Anne, Northcote

17/02/2020

Genoa Hotel Motel

17/02/2020

Yambuk Inn

20/02/2020

Great Western Hotel Ballan

21/02/2020

Commercial Hotel, Rupanyup

21/02/2020

Charlie Cox & Co, East Melbourne

21/02/2020

Country Plaza Motel, Halls Gap

Hanh Thi Hong Duong

24/02/2020

Barnawartha Star Hotel Motel

Mr Fox Wines Pty Ltd

28/02/2020

Lancemore Crossley Street, Melbourne

2/03/2020

Wedderburn Goldseeker Motel

5/03/2020

Parkville on the Park, Melbourne

6/03/2020

Kangaroo Hotel Maldon

Forever Fortune Pty Ltd Rabado Hospitality Pty Ltd Supreme Bay Pty Ltd Three Claws Pty Ltd O’Connor Saloon Pty Ltd Flames Harden Pty Ltd Wesley Anne Group Pty Ltd David George Severs South West Nominees Yambuk Pty Ltd Ballan Hotel Investments Pty Ltd Christopher Andrew Ormrod Mexichino Pty Ltd

JPJ Crossley Operations Pty Ltd R&N Barnes Pty Ltd Parkivlle Garden Operations Pty Ltd Donna-Marie Wood

AHA (Vic) Partner Directory ACCOUNTING & BUSINESS ADVISORY SERVICES ShineWing Australia www.shinewing.com.au Tim Stillwell tstillwell@shinewing.com.au 03 8635 1861

BDO www.bdo.com.au/en-au/home Gary Douglas Gary.Douglas@bdo.com.au 03 9603 1888 Charman Partners www.charmanpartners.com.au David Gow david@charmanpartners.com.au 03 9878 8200 Pacific Business Partners www.pacificbusinesspartners.com.au Alistair Jarvis alistair@pacificca.com.au 0412 811 702

ALCOHOL BEVERAGE SUPPLIERS Asahi Premium Beverages www.asahipremiumbeverages.com Andrew Grenville Andrew.Grenville@asahi.com.au 0408 004 815 Carlton & United Breweries www.cub.com.au Tim Powell tim.powell@cub.com.au 03 9420 6468 | 0417 416 050 Coca-Cola Amatil www.ccamatil.com Chris Strong chris.strong@ccamatil.com 0427 348 382 Diageo Australia www.diageo.com Robert Cooper robert.cooper@diageo.com 03 9947 7100 Lion www.lionco.com Matt Windsor matthew.windsor@lionco.com 03 9277 5826 | 0417 262 270 Treasury Wine Estates www.treasurywineestates.com Neil Grant neil.grant@tweglobal.com 0412 107 764

Australian Liquor Marketers (ALM) www.almliquor.com.au Jeremy Goodale jeremy.goodale@almliquor.com.au 03 8368 6333

ARCHITECTURE / INTERIOR DESIGN BSPN Architecture www.bspn.com.au Luke Ponti luke@bspn.com.au 03 8412 3400

ATM AND EFTPOS CASH OUT SUPPLIERS BANKTECH Group www.banktech.com.au Lisa Stocker lisas@banktech.com.au 0403 396 758 NEXT Payments www.nextpayments.com.au John Bakker jbakker@nextpayments.com.au 0418 500 868

BANKING SERVICES Bank of Melbourne www.bankofmelbourne.com.au Dean Cleary clearyd@bankofmelbourne.com.au 0413 875 241

BEVERAGE DISPENSING EQUIPMENT Lancer Beverage Equipment www.lancerbeverage.com Dean Ferraro dferraro@lancerbeverage.com 03 8336 1844 | 0423 557 576

BEVERAGE SUPPLIERS Remedy Drinks www.remedydrinks.com/au/ Nathan Silvey Nathan.silvey@remedydrinks.com 0447 533 371

AHA (Vic) Partner Directory BOOKKEEPING

DIGITAL MARKETING

BUILDING MATERIALS

EMPLOYEE MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE

OnTap Hospitality www.on-tap.com.au Freddie Deegan freddie@on-tap.com.au 03 8779 6505

Bunnings www.bunnings.com.au Laura Downes ldownes@bunnings.com.au 0439 852 394

CLEANING SERVICES Command 51 www.command51.com.au Stephen Milne smilne@command51.com.au 0403 744 444

KADD Facility Group www.kaddfacilitygroup.com.au/ Nick Bailey nick.bailey@kaddfg.com.au 03 9545 5759

COFFEE SERVICE

Genovese www.genovese.com.au Adam Genovese adam@genovese.com.au 03 9383 3300

COMMERCIAL FINANCE

Berkeley Capital Partners www.bcpartners.com.au Wal Constable wal.constable@bcpartners.com.au 03 9347 4154

DIGITAL COMMUNICATIONS AND VIDEO WALLS Cloud Copy Click www.cloudcopyclick.com.au Jack Galloway jack.galloway@cloudcopyclick.com.au 1300 136 069

Impact Data www.impactdata.com.au Sarah Franklyn sarah.franklyn@impactdata.com.au 03 9827 7790

Found U www.foundu.com.au Marco Agostini marco@foundu.com.au 0410 977 976

ENERGY ENERGIS www.energis.com.au Steven Field steven@energis.com.au 03 9376 7001 | 0418 317 170 Aussie NRG www.aussienrg.com Max Haas max.h@aussienrg.com 1300 440 224 | 0417 733 686 Trans Tasman Energy Group www.tteg.com.au Craig Marschall cmarschall@tteg.com.au 1300 118 834 Leading Edge Energy www.leadingedgeenergy.com.au Madonna Ghajar m.ghajar@leadingedgeenergy.com.au 1300 852 770 | 0448 085 631

ENERGY DRINK Red Bull Australia www.redbull.com.au Marlon Hastwell marlon.hastwell@au.redbull.com 03 9647 7402 | 0423 799 371

EVENT STAGING Encore Event Technologies www.encore-anzpac.com Catrina Bennell catrina.bennell@encore-anzpac.com 0408 679 958

62 | HOTEL TODAY | APRIL / MAY 2020

AHA (Vic) Partner Directory FOOD SERVICE DISTRIBUTORS PFD Food Services www.pfdfoods.com.au Paul Everard Peverard@pfdfoods.com.au 03 9756 2275 University Food Group www.universityfood.com.au Alex Marcocci sales@universitymeat.com.au alex.marcocci@universitymeat.com.au 03 9347 6933 | 0412 361 815

FURNITURE & REFURBISHMENT SPECIALISTS Strand Hospitality Furniture www.strandhospitalityfurniture.com.au Rob Lens rob@strand.furniture 03 9763 5222 | 0422 049 355 Core Hospitality Furniture www.corehospitalityfurniture.com.au Chris Hindson & Jessica Weng sales@corehospitalityfurniture.com.au 03 7000 6120

GAMING Tabcorp www.tabcorp.com.au Paul Carew carewp@tabcorp.com.aua 03 9868 2428 | 0439 398 761

GAMING MACHINE MANUFACTURERS

Aristocrat www.aristocrattechnologies.com Matt McCarroll matt.mccarroll@aristocrat.com 03 9644 1000 | 0438 457 246 IGT Australia www.igt.com.au Theo Toklis theo.toklis@igt.com 03 8588 5972 | 0434 476 964

GAS SUPPLIER (CYLINDER & BULK) Supagas www.supagas.com.au JasonSimmonds@supagas.com.au Jason Simmonds 0419 366 877

HOSPITALITY AGENCY I Need A Chef www.ineedachef.com.au Damien Fear damien@ineedachef.com.au 0412 567 771

HOSPITALITY EQUIPMENT SOLUTIONS Food Service Machinery Michael Walker www.fsm-pl.com.au MWalker@fsm-pl.com.au 0419 574 154

IMMIGRATION ADVICE & PROCESSING Absolute Immigration Services www.absoluteimmigration.com Ben Reid benr@absoluteimmigration.com 03 9827 3721

INSURANCE

Adroit Insurance Group www.adroitig.com.au Craig Love craigl@adroitg.com.au 03 9816 2174

LEADERSHIP & TEAM DEVELOPMENT OMC - Facilitation and Training www.omc-group.com.au Damien O’Malley damien@omc-group.com.au 0402 146 059

Konami www.konami.com/en/ Matt Stuart stuart0307@konamigaming.com 0419 245 023

AHAVIC.COM.AU | 63

AHA (Vic) Partner Directory LIQUOR, GAMING, & PLANNING LAWYERS BSP Lawyers www.bsplawyers.com.au Alison Elverd aelverd@bsplawyers.com.au Elizabeth Priddle epriddle@bsplawyers.com.au 03 9670 0722 Wisewould Mahony www.wisewoulds.com.au Tony Joyce tony.joyce@wisemah.com.au Paul Ryan Paul.Ryan@wisemah.com.au 0418 393 535

LIQUOR BUYING GROUPS United Innkeeper Association Thirsty Camel/ Liquor $avers/Drink Link www.thirstycamel.com.au Adrian Moelands adrianm@thirstycamel.com.au 0408 871 629

MEDIA The Age www.theage.com.au Marina Caccavari mcaccavari@fairfaxmedia.com.au 0439 773 584

MUSIC LICENSING OneMusic Australia onemusic.com.au Steven Stavrakis stevens@onemusic.com.au 03 9426 5221

MUSIC SOLUTIONS Nightlife Music www.nightlife.com.au Jeremy Sproull jeremys@nightlife.com.au 1800 679 748

64 | HOTEL TODAY | APRIL / MAY 2020

OIL MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS Cookers Oil www.cookers.com.au Robbie Coccaro rcoccaro@cookers.com.au 0447 474 425

OUTDOOR HEATING SOLUTIONS Thermofilm www.thermofilm.com.au Greg Trezise g.trezise@thermofilm.com.au 0402 127 375

OUTSOURCED ACCOMMODATION SERVICE PROVIDER LUXXE www.luxxe.com.au Craig Coughlin craigc@luxxe.com.au 03 9203 4995 | 0407 005 267 AHS Hospitality www.ahshospitality.com.au Gemma Jordan gjordan@ahshospitality.com.au 03 8629 1230 / 0455 363 299

PAY TV Foxtel for Business www.foxtelbusiness.com.au Scott Wiedemann scott.wiedemann@foxtel.com.au 0428 423 745

PLANTSCAPING Plant Image www.plantimage.com.au Len Thrower len@plantimage.com.au 03 9466 4734 | 0418 366 545

AHA (Vic) Partner Directory PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT

SNACKFOOD SUPPLIER

Rhinoplay www.rhinoplay.com.au Damian Slater damianslater@rhinoplay.com.au 0419 536 709

The Smith’s Snackfood Company www.smiths.com.au Wayne McConnell wayne.mcconnell@pepsico.com 0412 806 907

PRINTING SERVICES

SUPERANNUATION

NEO www.neo.com.au Franco Dissegna franco.dissegna@neo.com.au 03 8809 2500 New Creation Print www.newcreationprint.com.au Jennifer Snell Jennifer@newcreationprint.com.au 03 8561 4023 | 0418 171 534

POINT OF SALE SYSTEMS H & L Australia www.hlaustralia.com.au Jimmy Seeto jimmys@hlaustralia.com.au 0406 425 679 Vectron Systems www.vectron.com.au James Verlaque jamesv@vectron.com.au 03 9328 8222 | 0426 227 040

RECYCLING SERVICES Closed Loop www.closedloop.com.au Chris Purcell cpurcell@closedloop.com.au 03 9684 4664

REFRIGERATION United Refrigeration www.unitedrefrig.com.au Eddy Kazmarek eddy@unitedrefrig.com.au 03 9357 1401 | 0418 540 705

SECURITY & SURVEILLANCE Excell Security www.excellsecurity.com.au Benny Kaushal benny@excellsecurity.com.au 1800 239 235 | 0433 313 751

HOSTPLUS www.hostplus.com.au Jane Sheridan jsheridan@hostplus.com.au 03 8636 7897 | 0428 385 863

TELECOMMUNICATIONS Telstra Business Centre Bendigo www.telstra.com.au/Telstra/Business Jack Galloway jack.galloway@tbccentralvic.com.au 0437 380 333

TOBACCO SUPPLIER British American Tobacco Australia www.bata.com.au Nicholas Booth nicholas_booth@bat.com 0414 783 608

TRAINING

AVTES www.avtes.com.au Chris Fitzgibbon chris@avtes.com.au 0457 771 334 Typsy www.typsy.com Emily Marr emilym@typsy.com 03 5955 4245 William Angliss Institute of TAFE www.angliss.edu.au Brendan Clennett brendan.clennett@angliss.edu.au 03 9606 2447 The Hotel School www.hotelschool.scu.edu.au Vashti Silver vashti.silver@scu.edu.au 02 8249 3217

AHAVIC.COM.AU | 65

AHA (Vic) Partner Directory VALUERS & PROPERTY CONSULTANTS Charter Keck Cramer www.charterkc.com.au Tony Close tony.close@charterkc.com.au 03 8102 8873 | 0407 510 025

WORKCOVER/ WORKERS COMPENSATION Gallagher Bassett www.gallagherbassett.com.au Barry Oliver barry_oliver@gbtpa.com.au 03 9297 9108|0407 515 893

VISUAL ENTERTAINMENT SOLUTIONS Big Screen Video www.bigscreenvideo.com.au Craig Thomson craig@bigscreenvideo.com.au 1300 BIG SCREEN | 0418 531 802

CORPORATE PREMIUM COMMERCIAL

66 | HOTEL TODAY | APRIL / MAY 2020

AHAVIC.COM.AU | 67

PRINCIPAL PARTNERS

CORPORATE PARTNERS