The Bradford Hotel at Rutherford has been named the best regional hotel in NSW, while Jesmond Hotel’s Paul Thornton was recognised as Regional Chef of the Year at this year’s illustrious Australian Hotels Association (AHA) NSW Awards for Excellence.
In addition to winning Regional Hotel of the Year, the Bradford Hotel was also the recipient of Best Regional Casual Dining (Northern), while Hotel Jesmond also took the gong for Best Burger.
The Bradford Hotel at Rutherford has been named the best regional hotel in NSW, while Jesmond Hotel’s Paul Thornton was recognised as Regional Chef of the Year at this year’s illustrious Australian Hotels Association (AHA) NSW Awards for Excellence...
Hunter pubs claimed five additional accolades including Windsor Castle Hotel for Best Regional TAB Venue, Harrigan’s for Best Retail Liquor Outlet, Shortland Hotel for Best Draught Beer Quality, and Thoroughbred Hotel for Best Steak.
Iris Hotel Group, which operates Hunter pubs Peden’s Hotel, Shaft Tavern, Argenton Hotel, Sydney Junction Hotel and the Gunyah Hotel, as well as a number of other NSW-based hotels, was named Group Hotel Operator of the Year.
Hunt Hospitality's Ricci-Lee Wheeler was named Industry Rising Star.
Winners received the top honours in front of a crowd of more than 1200 industry leaders at The Star Event Centre in Sydney.
AHA Newcastle Hunter President Rolly de With said the awards reflect the exceptional service provided by community-focused venues within Newcastle and the Hunter.
“When it comes to your local pub, there really is something for everyone and that’s not a coincidence. Pubs have always existed to serve their local communities, and this is just further proof of our industry’s commitment to improving on that model year after year...”
“These days our hotels really are lifestyle venues. They provide employment opportunities for people of varying ages and skill sets, they provide millions of dollars back into their communities, a place to come together whether that’s with family, friends, or colleagues, they offer great dining, the chance to enjoy live entertainment, and these days even school holiday activities for the kids,” he said.
“When it comes to your local pub, there really is something for everyone and that’s not a coincidence. Pubs have always existed to serve their local communities, and this is just further proof of our industry’s commitment to improving on that model year after year.”
A full list of winners is available at www.ahaawardsnsw.com.au
