Accolades for NW hospitality

Food and beverage businesses in the North West have shone through in this year’s hospitality awards, despite the COVID-19 pandemic forcing the temporary closure of the industry.

Hospitality venues were in the dark about the future of their businesses earlier this year but many managed to stay afloat and emerge stronger than ever.

North West finalists for the 2020 Australian Hotels Association — Aon Hospitality Awards for Excellence include Fiorita Wine Bar and Restaurant in nine categories, Blanche Bar in seven categories, and Rambla Bar and Bistro and Exmouth’s Froth Craft Brewery each in six categories. Stadium 26 and Onyx on Sharpe were named finalists in three categories, while Whalebone Brewing Company in Exmouth was a finalist in two.

Blanche Group owner Bart Parsons, pictured, said it was great for the venues, staff and region to receive recognition.

“It’s nice to see that it’s not just the South West that gets recognised. I think a lot of people came through Karratha this year because there wasn’t much else to do and they were probably pleasantly surprised, so it’s nice to keep building the region’s brand as well,” he said.

“I’m hoping Fiorita gets a bit of recognition because what we have put in there is pretty special and I think it deserves it. Blanche is always very strong.

“We’ve got a lot of staff awards this year as well, which is more than we’ve ever had so it’s great and recognises the fact we put a lot of time and effort into training our staff.”

AHA WA’s Bradley Woods said there were unprecedented levels of interest in this year’s awards.

Winners will be announced at Crown Perth on November 16.