Three Albany hospitality venues have been named finalists for a swag of State gongs that honour the “exceptional” work in the food and drink industries.
Rustlers Steakhouse & Grill, Wild West Bowling, and Hybla Tavern were shortlisted for a whopping eight awards collectively in the 2026 Australian Hotels Association (WA) and Coca-Cola Hospitality Awards for Excellence this month.
Wild West Bowling is in the running for best themed venue, small bar, tourism initiative and best bar manager, Daniel Tonkin.
The Kennedy family who run the Orana-based entertainment complex are no strangers to AHA success, having taken home the prize for best themed venue at the 2025 awards.
Rustlers will hope to take home the coveted title of best regional restaurant as well as hold onto the community service award — an accolade honouring exceptional support, charitable contributions and active community involvement they won last year.
The gem of Middleton Beach, Hybla Tavern will face stiff competition in their dual quests to be named best regional casual pub dining and the holders of the best wine list, the only regional contender in the latter awards category.
AHA WA chief executive Bradley Woods said the high calibre of the finalists “reflects the strength, talent and diversity of WA’s hospitality industry”.
“From busy pubs to family restaurants, craft breweries to conference venues, these finalists represent the venues that give our industry its character and keep people coming back,” he said.
“They also recognise the people behind those venues who create great experiences everyday.
“Whether it’s exceptional food and service, innovative ideas or outstanding leadership, these awards celebrate the many different ways hospitality businesses and their teams are making their mark across WA.”
The winners will be revealed on October 12 at the Stone & Wood Gala Ball at Crown Perth in front of more than 1200 industry peers.
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