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Nominees for the WA hospitality awards for excellence announced

Phoebe SolonBroome Advertiser
Roebuck Bay Hotel bar manager Michael Norton, general manager Tamara Burchell, and Kelsey Murphy.
Camera IconRoebuck Bay Hotel bar manager Michael Norton, general manager Tamara Burchell, and Kelsey Murphy. Credit: Cain Andrews

Hospitality establishments in the Kimberley and Pilbara have taken a big chunk out of the finalists list for the Australian Hotels Association of Western Australia 2025 AHA & Coca-Cola Hospitality Awards for Excellence.

With more than 40 prestigious categories up for grabs, a record-breaking 605 nominations were submitted from across the State, highlighting the strength and diversity of WA’s hospitality industry.

The finalists selected represent the region’s top hotels, bars, pubs, taverns and restaurants, along with the dedicated staff whose expertise and hard work drive their success.

Broome’s Roebuck Bay Hotel general manager Tamara Burchell said venue staff were thrilled to be finalists for seven awards.

“Yes we are stoked. It’s very exciting and unexpected to be a finalist,” she said, adding they were particularly proud to be a finalist for the Community Service Award.

“For the people who work here, and the broader Broome community, the hotel is very much part of everyday life. Our community contribution isn’t a side project, it’s who we are,” Ms Burchell said.

“Some local groups don’t have the resources to run large events or fundraisers, and that’s where The Roey steps in. Our involvement often inspires others to contribute, which is why we actively promote our fundraising and sponsorships in-venue and across our platforms.”

The pub is also shortlisted for the Cocktail Bar Award, Casual Pub Dining Award (Regional), Live Entertainment Award, Venue Manager of the Year (Tamara Burchell), Bar Manager of the Year (Michael Norton) and Food and Beverage Services award (Kelsey Murphy).

“As a team, we’ve worked hard to turn challenges into opportunities, and these nominations are recognition of that. We have great relationships in the Broome community and will continue to contribute where we can,” Ms Burchell said.

AHA (WA) chief executive Bradley Woods said the impressive number and quality of finalists reflected the talent and innovation in WA’s hospitality sector.

“From vibrant city bars to iconic regional pubs, and from casual eateries to world-class dining establishments, these finalists represent the best of what our industry has to offer,” Mr Woods said.

“Being named a finalist is an exceptional achievement. It acknowledges the dedication, skill, and passion of the individuals behind these venues, as well as the leadership, innovation, and commitment that continue to make our industry thrive.”

The winners will be unveiled at the Lion Gala Ball on Monday, November 10, at Crown Perth.

See the full list of nominees at ahawa.asn.au/events/2025-hospitality-awards-for-excellence-2.

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