Settlers Tavern Margaret River has continued its regional dominance over the Australian Hotels Association WA (AHAWA) awards, collecting the top gongs in four of their eight nominated categories.
Attending the gala awards night in Perth last week, Settlers Tavern owner Rob Gough said the group was “over the moon” with the result.
“We had the honour of attending with ten of our key staff members, and we were fully prepared to not win anything and just celebrate a great night,” Mr Gough said.
“Being named WA’s Best Regional Hospitality Venue for the fourth time is a double edged sword.
“We’re very, very happy, but we also know that we’ll need to keep lifting the bar to meet people’s expectations. And that’s a great challenge to have. It keeps us looking forward.”
Alongside the major award for the venue, Settlers also picked up the Outstanding Commitment to Workforce Development Practices Award, WA’s Best Casual Regional Pub Dining, and shared the honours of WA’s Best Wine List with Cottesloe’s Il Lido Italian Canteen.
“Receiving the hall of fame award for regional dining recognises the quality work our team has maintained over three consecutive years,” said Mr Gough.
“There’s a tremendous effort that goes into that achievement, and we’re pretty proud of our crew. It certainly adds fuel to our fire and encourages us to keep on rocking.”
He said the additional challenges of running a regional venue and the “tyranny of distance” meant businesses in the region often struggled to fill key employment roles.
“In some ways this can be an advantage, leading to a very strong culture of teamwork and positivity. This year’s award for Workforce Development reflects our total commitment to our team.”
A commitment to developing a wine list that reflects the bounty of the Margaret River region has been a 14 year labour of love for Rob’s wife and co-owner, Karen.
“Our team also includes three wine specialists who are wine knowledgeable and passionate. They help guide our patrons through the wine bible, and contribute their own twists on what’s clicking with the wine crowd.
“We have a very important role to play, providing wines in a casual atmosphere, to a unique and diverse audience. Local winemakers love to try one another’s new wines, and they also love to experience wines from other regions of Australia and the world.
“Our audience is probably one of the most varied of any pub restaurants, from backpackers to luxury tourists, from seasonal vineyard workers to local winemakers… they are all here.”
Nicky Lefebvre
I am a journalist, photographer and content creator based in the beautiful Margaret River wine region, covering all aspects of our community including local news, sport, entertainment and events, as well as providing a platform for our readers to share their voices direct from regional Australia.
I am a journalist, photographer and content creator based in the beautiful Margaret River wine region, covering all aspects of our community including local news, sport, entertainment and events, as well as providing a platform for our readers to share their voices direct from regional Australia.
