Last week, the 2024 Australian Liquor Industry Awards (ALIA) were held in Sydney, celebrating the best of the nation’s off- and on-premise, encapsulating products, people and venues.
Within the on-premise component of the ALIA ceremony, a number of awards went to pub operations from across the country who had excelled at different components within the industry. Best Sports Venue was won by The Sporting Globe in Richmond, Melbourne, while The Beach Hotel in Merewether, Newcastle was named Best Renovation. In the F&B categories, The Duke of Clarence in Sydney’s CBD – famed for its British-style Sunday roast – was named a joint winner for Best Menu, alongside Melbourne’s Bar Margaux, while The Taphouse Darlinghurst was awarded Best Beer List.
In the major awards section, Best Publican for 2024 went to Blair Hayden of The Lord Nelson Brewery Hotel. Hayden has overseen the groundbreaking pub for almost 40 years, and will shortly hand over the reins to Laundy Hotels.
Hayden accepted his award to a standing ovation from the crowd in acknowledgment of his contributions to the industry. He reflected on his time within the industry.
“I’ve been the publican at the Lord Nelson for nearly 40 years now, and it’s been a very special journey. To be the oldest licensed pub brewery in Australia, has been a very special journey. To all my staff over 40 years, it’s been a very special journey. And to all the finalists tonight who didn’t make it tonight, fucking hang in there!”
Backstage, Hayden reflected on receiving this award from his peers in the industry.
“I’m humbled, and thankful to all involved. Forty years in the industry and it’s a great pleasure to receive this award. I wish everyone involved in these awards the best. It ain’t easy being in the hospitality industry, but we’re here because we love it.”
Best Hotel was awarded to the Old Fitzroy Hotel in Woolloomooloo, operated by Odd Culture Group. CEO James Thorpe sung the praises of the pub, reflecting on it’s traditional nature and focus on community.
“It’s always such a pleasure to hear that people love the Old Fitz just as much as we do, and it’s a true testament to the allure of the place. It’s hardly the flashiest of places, but it’s not trying to be, and what we have is something infinitely more valuable: an authentic, breathing relic of Sydney’s pub life.
“The Old Fitz has a raucous soul, and we’re privileged stewards of its charms. What makes the pub so special is that it has a whole community of people who genuinely love it; from the locals’ corners, to the seasoned staff who know customers by name, to the patrons who appreciate it for what it is. This place belongs to its community in every way, and it’s our honour to keep its legacy alive.”
Solotel was named Best Hotel Group Operator, with CEO Elliot Solomon in attendance with his team to be bestowed the award.
“We were so honoured to be recognised by industry peers with the Best Group Operator award at the ALIAs. We also couldn’t be prouder of everyone at Solotel, whose hard work and dedication are the reason we won the award. Every day they put an incredible amount of love and care into delivering an amazing experience for guests in our diverse family of 26 venues,” said Solomon.
“As a team, we believe in the importance of hospitality in society – that our venues are places for people to meet, share and connect. We are excited for the industry’s future, and the future of Solotel.”
You can view all of the ALIA 2024 winners here.
