For the second year in a row, Australian Hotelier ran its Future Leaders Scholarship program, in partnership with Allara Learning, Allara Global and Asahi Beverages. The scholarship’s aim is to help foster the careers of people working in pubs at the AVM level, in specialised roles or in junior group roles.
The finalists were invited to attend the Pub Leaders Summit conference, where they were celebrated throughout the day, before a ceremony at the end of the conference brought all the finalists on stage where they were acknowledged by the 290 publicans and industry stakeholders in the room.
The finalists came from all over Australia – from Adelaide to Queensland’s Lockyer Valley.
“We’re so pleased to do our part in putting a spotlight on new talent in the industry, and helping them develop new leadership skills that will progress their careers within pubs,” stated Australian Hotelier managing editor Vanessa Cavasinni.
The winner
Suzie Quinsey, assistant venue manager of the Morphett Arms Hotel in Adelaide, was chosen by a select group of judges as the 2025 winner of the Future Leaders Scholarship.
Quinsey has worked her way up in the Palmer Hospitality Group venue over the last 11 years, starting out as a F&B attendant, before becoming the pub’s functions manager, and now AVM.
In a field of ten worthy finalists, Quinsey was chosen for a combination of her array of experience across pub operations, her clear ties to the local community and a succinct understanding of the upskilling required to progress her career in pub leadership.
“Being named the Future Leaders Scholarship winner is an incredible honour. I feel grateful of the recognition for the hard work and dedication I’ve put into my work, it also motivates me to continue striving for excellence and making a positive impact in my workplace,” stated Quinsey.
“I’m excited for what lies ahead and thankful for the opportunity to grow as a future leader.”
Abby McDonough, manager of the Morphett Arms Hotel showered praise on Quinsey’s abilities.
“I’m incredibly proud to see Suzie recognized as the recipient of the Australian Hotelier Future Leaders Scholarship, a truly well-deserved acknowledgement of her dedication and capability. Suzie’s leadership, her commitment to continuous learning, and her genuine respect and passion for the hospitality industry make her an outstanding representation of the next generation of hotel leaders.
“I have every confidence she will make the most of this opportunity, generously supported by Australian Hotelier, Allara Learning and CUB. The entire team at the Morphett Arms Hotel, along with our patrons and wider community, are so proud of Suzie’s achievement and look forward to watching her continue to grow and contribute meaningfully to the future of our industry.”
As the winner, Quinsey will receive year-long access to Allara Learning and Allara Global leadership courses, as well as personalised mentorship with an Allara facilitator, valued at $4000. She has also won a bespoke leadership masterclass series for herself and up to 15 emerging leaders in her venue or group delivered by Allara Learning, valued at $12,000.
“Having won access to all the Allara resources listed in the prize is incredible. It will be extremely valuable for my journey in hospitality management,” stated Quinsey.
Allara Learning’s national general manager James Richards stated: “Allara Learning was delighted to renew our partnership with Australian Hotelier for the Future Leaders Scholarship. We understand the vital importance of quality training and mentoring in developing the pub sector’s next-generation leaders.
“This year’s applicants truly impressed us, and the winner had demonstrated that by investing in her own skills to better serve her team, she can directly impact how the team deliver an exceptional guest experience and set a new standard for service excellence.”
Peter Yeomans of Asahi Beverages concurred.
“Asahi Beverages/Carlton & United Breweries was proud to support the Future Leaders Scholarship program once again this year. Pubs are a vital part of our industry, and helping to nurture the next generation of publicans is key to ensuring its ongoing success.
“The calibre of applicants was truly impressive, showcasing the passion, dedication, and potential that exists within the next generation of industry pub leaders. We were also pleased to work alongside Allara Learning, who have been instrumental in equipping participants with the skills and confidence to thrive. It was a privilege to host this year’s finalists and winners at Green Beacon Brewery for a one-of-a-kind experience, and we’re confident this outstanding group of emerging publicans will go on to build successful, long-lasting careers in the pub sector.”
Quinsey was appreciative of the prizes, which will help her grow as a leader within hospitality.
The resources will provide me with, insightful mentorship, and industry knowledge that will help me develop as a confident leader. This support is going to help me to better manage teams and operations.
Suzie Quinsey, 2025 Australian Hotelier Future Leaders Scholarship winner
“The resources will provide me with, insightful mentorship, and industry knowledge that will help me develop as a confident leader. This support is going to help me to better manage teams and operations.”
She said that she hopes that the Future Leaders Scholarship win will be of benefit not only to herself, but to those around her.
“I want to use this opportunity to further develop my leadership skills, while also supporting and connecting with others in my team as they work on developing theirs. Ultimately, I hope the scholarship helps me grow both personally and professionally so I can become a stronger leader in the workplace.”
Quinsey also had some advice for anyone considering applying for the Scholarship next year.
“To anyone thinking of applying for the Scholarship next year, I’d say go for it! This opportunity can open doors you didn’t even know were there. The resources, mentorship, and support you receive can make a real difference in your personal and professional growth.”