Award-worthy Kimberley stays

Two Kimberley accommodation venues are celebrating after several staff were named finalists in the 2026 AHA Perth Airport Accommodation Awards.

With more than 30 categories, the annual awards recognise outstanding achievement across venues, staff, operational teams, and management, shining a spotlight on the skill, innovation and commitment that drives WA’s accommodation sector.

Australian Hotels Association (WA) chief executive Bradley Woods said Western Australia’s accommodation sector continued to set a high standard for excellence.

“These awards showcase the passion, professionalism and innovation that drive our industry forward,” he said.

“Staff finalists, in particular, demonstrate a commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences, which is central to WA’s hospitality and tourism success.”

Hotel Kununurra has secured finalist spots in two categories, with Alicia Ghirardi nominated for the rising star award and Alexandra Czeneova recognised in the reception awards.

In Halls Creek, the Kimberley Hotel is also strongly represented.

Kimberley Hotel’s Bettina Rivera was announced as a finalist in the food and beverage category. The venue has also been named a finalist in the Mid-Range.

For Ms Rivera, who has been at the Kimberley Hotel for just over 18 months, the nomination was humbling and rewarding.

“I’m grateful that they nominated me, and I’m even more grateful to the AHA for putting me in as a finalist,” she said.

Working as bar supervisor and duty manager, Ms Rivera said her time in Halls Creek had been the stand-out of her career so far.

“I think the stand-out moment is basically just being here — really getting to know Halls Creek and working with the people that have been here,” she said.

“Before coming to Halls Creek, I’d never been to Western Australia.

“I’d never been this regional before. I was always in the big cities.

“But just learning about this place, learning about the people and how a community works like this — I think that’s the highlight, and it still is.”

Kimberley Hotel’s chef Esther Danmelip is in the running for the chef award.

Ms Danmelip said the team culture at the Kimberley Hotel makes it a special place to work.

“The crew at the Kimberley Hotel is an amazing place to work,” she said.

“The staff and management — everyone is friendly, it’s like a home. They’re like family.

“People love all the food here.”

Winners will be named at a black tie event, The Devil’s Lair Gala Ball, at The Westin Perth on March 30.