In front of a crowd of about 1400 industry, political and business leaders Balldale Hotel very overwhelmingly took out the award for the whole of NSW with Manager Manny Plesa saying the pub and its patrons are thrilled with the result.
“Since being nominated we have received amazing feedback and so many messages. All our regulars are so impressed to be a part of the best bush pub,” Ms Plesa said.
“Many people voted from far and near. People who had never even been to the pub have come to see it and said they voted too.
“Some voted over 50 times, although we did not receive the people’s choice, the best bush pub winner is decided on a mystery shopper type concept and every box was ticked to take out this win.
“We were a little anxious on the day but the best bush pub was the first award we were up for and we were thrilled when they called out Balldale Hotel.
“We’ll celebrate the win and show off the trophy this Sunday alongside the sixth birthday of the pub reopening.
“We’d like to thank our locals, our die-hard regulars and of course our staff who are a huge reason as to why we won the award.
“Look out next year when we try again to win the best pub in NSW and peoples choice award. Making the top 10 on our first year entering the comp is a huge achievement so lets hope we go one better next year.”
The much sought-after People’s Choice Award was won by another pub in the region, in the Gerogery Hotel, Best Family Friendly Hotel was won by joint winners the Bellbird Hotel and the Marsden Brewhouse and Heart of the Community was won by Coogee Bay Hotel.
More than 881 nominations were received for awards across 47 categories and AHA NSW CEO John Whelan said the winners represented the best and brightest in the NSW hotel industry.
“The quality of NSW hotels has never been higher.” Mr Whelan said.
“From the mum and dad operations in the most remote parts of the state to multi-level entertainment precincts in Sydney, NSW hotels directly employ 72,000 people, raise millions of dollars for charity and drive the NSW tourism and hospitality economy.
“I would like to congratulate all our hotels for their work throughout the year, particularly this years award winners.”
A full list of finalists for this year’s AHA NSW Awards for Excellence can be found at www.ahaawardsnsw.com.au.
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