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Forward to a Friend Hames Going - Major Loss to WA Tourism and Hospitality
Liquor Act Review Membership Details Update Australian Bartender Awards AHA Licensed Premises Self-Audit Checklist Finalists announced for the AHA 2013 ME Bank WA Accommodation Hotels Industry Awards! TRAINING Train the Trainer - 2 day course Beermasters Special RSA $19 Special WORKPLACE RELATIONS AND IR NEWS
Free Member Seminar - Suicide Prevention in the Workplace IN THE NEWS Like Australian Hotels Association (WA) on Facebook to follow industry issues as they occur. Find the page here.
Hames Going - Major Loss to WA Tourism and Hospitality
The tourism and hospitality industry today were surprised and saddened to learn of the Hon Kim Hames MLA resignation from the tourism portfolio.
During his time as Minister for Tourism, Dr Hames has worked tirelessly to promote Western Australia as a destination for both interstate and intrastate visitors.
The Australian Hotels Association (WA) CEO, Mr Bradley Woods, said Dr Hames’ resignation comes at a time when the state is even more reliant on the tourism Industry, especially with the projected downturn in the mining sector, tourism was now being Management of recognised as a growth industry. Licensed Premises
“During his term as Minister for Tourism, Dr Hames secured China Airlines and Qatar to fly MLP1 in to Perth. Approved Manager Training “In addition Dr Hames worked to grow regional tourism, and an example of this is the very popular Margaret River Gourmet Escape, now in its second year. Online Management of Licensed “The Australian Hotels Association and the tourism and hospitality industry would like to thank Dr Hames Premises MLP1 - $229 for his hard work and dedication to the tourism portfolio as one of the best tourism ministers in the past 10 Management of Licensed years. Premises MLP1 including RSA - $269 “An administrative error should not be a hanging offence,” said Mr Woods. Click to start online training Mr Woods also branded the Premier’s decision an “overreaction”, saying there was plenty of precedent for MPs paying back innocently claimed expenses without penalty and is urging the Premier to act quickly to Classroom find a suitable replacement. Management of Licensed Premises MLP1
Liquor Act Review 6 August- Perth
20 August- Perth Over the past four months, the Committee appointed by the Minister for
Racing, Gaming & Liquor, Terry Waldron MLA, to review the Liquor Control All classroom courses are Act has been undertaking its duties. conducted at the AHA in West Perth The AHA has provided submissions and made representation in person to To book click here or call the Committee. 9321 7701
At this time, we understand that the Committee is likely to present its report to the Minister in September. Once the report is received by the Government, it will then consider the recommendations and potentially release a paper for further discussion as well as any other matters that they wish to place on the Agenda.
The AHA is continuing to work with the State Government on this and other matters and we expect more detailed updates on the review in late September or early October.
Beermasters Membership Details Update Course As the new financial year rolls around again, The Australian Hotels The AHA, in conjunction with Association WA Membership Team need your key contact information. The Swan Brewery, presents a one- day intensive course designed to Complete this short survey to ensure that you are receiving the most up to give you the leading edge on serving date information regarding the industry. tap beer.
Date: Thursday 22nd August 2013 All relevant parties whose information is collected will receive important Cost: $99 information and updates, as well as more direct communication from all AHA(WA) departments. Visit the website for more information.
Please complete the survey as soon as possible.
Australian Bartender Awards
The Australian Bartender Magazine recently announced finalists for the 2013 Bartender Awards.
AHA Compliance Congratulations to WA finalists in a range of venue categories and we wish them well for the awards to be announced in September. Course
•Luxe Bar, Mt Lawley Book now to attend the •Five Bar, Mt Lawley AHA's Liquor Licensing •Mechanics Institute, Northbridge Compliance Workshops. Available FREE to AHA •Class Room, North Perth Members. •Rockpool Bar & Grill, Burswood
•Print Hall, Perth Next workshop: TBA Special Guest Speaker: Marcus Murray, Licensing Training Sergeant for WA Police
NEW AHA Licensed Premises Self-Audit Checklist The AHA(WA) has introduced these free liquor licensing compliance workshops for members as a value added membership benefit. The AHA(WA) has produced the online Licensed Premises Self Audit Report to assist members in meeting a large number of Liquor and some other regulatory Between legislation, regulation, and policy changes keeping up to date requirements governing their business. with the shifting sands of compliance in WA is a constant task, and with To assist in your requirements under the Liquor Control Act 1988 and other the prohibitive cost of non- relevant legislation, this checklist should be reviewed on a regular basis by all compliance a constant threat to the profitability of your business it is levels of senior management. more important than ever to make sure everybody knows the rules and All sections contain an excerpt of the relevant section of the Act / Regulations to keeps up to date with any changes. guide you through the process of meeting the necessary requirements.
Classroom Workshop spots are Login to the AHA Members Area here. limited so contact us now to secure places for your staff on 08 9321 If you have any concerns or queries during or after completing this report, please contact the 7701 or book online by clicking here. AHA(WA) office on (08) 9321 7701.
Finalists announced for the AHA 2013 ME Bank WA Accommodation Hotels Industry Awards!
The finalists have been announced for the AHA 2013 ME Bank WA Accommodation Industry Awards! To be held on Monday 12th FREE Online August 2013, this year’s event 'Diwali Dreams' promises to be a night of light and Customer Service colour, inspired by all the vibrancy and sounds Training of the Indian sub-continent. WA Service with a Smile To view the full list of finalists, click here. Customer Service Online Training covers the fundamental principles of Regarded as one of the most exciting events on the Western Australian calendar by the state’s leading delivering excellent customer social reporters, this year will be no exception. service.
Tickets are selling fast, book your tickets online now! Utilising a range of e-learning This is an evening to network with representatives from across the industry and celebrate the premier systems and learning styles Awards for the Accommodation sector. Join the industry as we recognise those outstanding individuals the course incorporates nominated in the ME Bank AHA WA Accommodation Industry Awards. multimedia, written word, spoken language, active on A fantastic array of door prizes have been donated by leading companies such as Parker & Co, Willie screen thinking exercises and Creek Pearls, Rose Moon Spa and Devlin's. simple research links to deliver a multi-faceted We encourage you to reserve your tickets early as due to high demand, your place cannot be guaranteed accelerated learning platform. until payment is received. Get started today click here to register your business or a staff member.
www.wasmiles.com.au
Cocktail Course
Learn how to make the perfect cocktail!
The AHA, in conjunction with leading ______Mixologist Adam Keane, presents an intensive and personalised cocktail course designed to ensure your venue and staff are creating the best AHA TRAINING NEWS cocktails.
Visit the website for more information. Train the Trainer - 2 day course
13 and 14 August 2013 Members: $645 This program focuses on planning & delivering short on-the-job training sessions for “one on one” or small group situations in hospitality and leisure retailing environments. It is designed to help Team Leaders, Supervisors and Managers increase the prospects of successful outcomes in their venues. Improving team performance is a key focus of this workshop.
Participants will gain an understanding of:
• basic adult learning principles • various learning styles • the importance of engaging team members • setting the scene for learning • the value of quality questions • the critical function of review and refinement for future sessions
The program is hospitality specific and recognises the complexities of training in a dynamic environment. It provides techniques, tips and strategies for facilitating high impact training sessions along with the opportunity to practice in a safe and supportive situation.
Contact The Training Department on 08 9321 7701 to find out more, or view the AHA Training Website.
Beermasters Special
22 August 2013 Special $99
Isn't it time you discovered the secret behind serving the perfect beer?
The AHA, in conjunction with The Swan Brewery, presents a one-day intensive course designed to give you the leading edge on serving tap beer. The topics covered include: • Coolroom operations • Preparation for service and after service operations • Service of draught beer • Health and safety in the workplace • Draught beer profiles
What are the benefits of Beermasters Training?
To the Employer
• Improved standards of efficiency and professionalism • Higher productivity and hence increase profits • Reduced accident rates
To the Employee
• Higher levels of skill and self confidence • Knowledge about the product you handle • Enhance job satisfaction
To the Customer
• Faster and more efficient service • Confidence in the industry’s ability to meet their needs • Better quality beer
Contact The Training Department on 08 9321 7701 to find out more, or view the AHA Training Website.
RSA $19 Special
The AHA(WA) is offering this exclusive upgrade offer for your RSA.
If you have previously completed the RSA e-Briefing with the AHA(WA), you are eligible to upgrade to the Nationally Accredited RSA certificate for only $19.
The Nationally Recognised RSA certificate is the minimum training standard for Responsible of Alcohol as outlined by the Department of Racing, Gaming & Liquor (DRGL).
The RSA e-Briefing is no longer available for completion, the AHA(WA) strongly recommends anyone who holds an RSA e-Briefing certificate upgrades their skills and knowledge by completing the Nationally Accredited RSA course.
To receive your Special Discount Code please contact [email protected] or call the AHA Training Department on 9321 7701.
The discount code must be entered to receive the special $19 rate.
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WORKPLACE RELATIONS AND IR NEWS
Free Member Seminar - Suicide Prevention in the Workplace
The AHA(WA) is proud to host a free seminar on Suicide Awareness for our members.
Do you have a policy on ‘employee well-being’ or have you reviewed it in the last 12 months? This may be an opportune time to do so.
This session is recommended for all our members and those that deal with employee issues in the workplace such as General Managers, HR Managers and Managers of Departments. It may be of particular benefit to those that are experiencing current issues with staff in the realm of mental illness. Topics on Suicide Awareness will include:
Suicide prevention in the workplace What to do when someone is suicidal: identifying early warning signs and developing protective factors Ask the question, it could save a life Suicide postvention in the workplace
Presented by the One Life Suicide Prevention Strategy
Date: Wednesday 7th August 2013 Time: 8.30am-10.00am Location: AHA(WA), 38 Parliament Place West Perth
We hope you can utilise this great opportunity to further your knowledge in this area and it may give you some skills that will assist in dealing with problems of this nature.
Spaces are limited so please register your interest as soon as possible. Please RSVP to AHA(WA) Employment & IR Adviser Dalton Ryan on 08 9321 7701 or email [email protected]
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IN THE NEWS
Mining dip lifts tourism hopes The West Australian 8 July 2013
Tourism chief Peter Prendiville believes WA's mining downturn could reinvigorate the State's tourism industry by providing greater access to workers.
In an exclusive interview with The West Australian to coincide with the anniversary of his first year as Tourism WA chairman, the millionaire hotel and winery owner said the industry had been hamstrung in recent years by its inability to secure staff.
With potential workers being attracted to big wages in mining, Mr Prendiville said many tourism operators and developers had been "scared off" WA. But this had changed in the past three or four months.
Not only were jobs in mining suddenly less plentiful, but also a downturn in mining-related business travel meant Perth's notoriously full hotels now had more empty beds. Mr Prendiville said this meant operators could promote their businesses, knowing they could get good staff and clients could be accommodated in Perth's hotels.
But he underlined the importance of continuing investment in promoting and marketing the State as a tourism destination, especially in the Eastern States and South-East Asian markets.
Last month, Tourism Minister Kim Hames criticised the advertising freeze in his tourism portfolio ordered by Premier Colin Barnett and Treasurer Troy Buswell, suggesting it did not make economic sense.
Mr Prendiville agreed that money spent on tourism was an important enabler to employment and economic growth.
"It makes sense - the figures all stack up," he said.
Tourism WA has always suggested that every dollar it invests usually yields between $13 and $25 for the economy.
The agency's financial support to attract popular television shows to WA, including MasterChef and My Restaurant Rules, is an example of the power of this investment.
Though the amount of the support to these programs is not divulged because of commercial confidentiality, it is generally known to be between $100,000 and $200,000.
Tourism WA said the visit of My Restaurant Rules late last year generated $18 million in equivalent advertising spending.
Consumer watchdog takes Scoopon to court The Weekend West Australian 6-7 July 2013
The nation's consumer watchdog has taken online discount coupon seller Scoopon to court over allegations of misleading and deceptive conduct and false representation.
The ACC has filed Federal Court proceedings against Scoopon following "a significant number of complaints" received since the group buying company entered the market in 2010, the agency announced in a statement today.
Prgroup’s Christina Whittington issued a statement on behalf of Scoopon this morning saying the company would review the ACCC allegations and “work to resolve the issues raised”.
The popular online coupon seller offers discount deals on goods and services across Australia including in WA.
"The ACCC alleges that Scoopon misled consumers regarding their ability to redeem vouchers, their refund rights, and the price of goods advertised in relation to some of its deals," the statement said.
"The ACCC also alleges Scoopon represented to businesses that there was no cost or risk involved in running a deal with Scoopon, when a fee was payable to Scoopon."
Scoopon also misled businesses by claiming between 20 per cent and 30 per cent of vouchers would not be redeemed when there was no reasonable basis for this representation, according to the statement.
"Businesses must have reasonable grounds when making representations to consumers and to other businesses," ACCC Chairman Rod Sims said.
"The ACCC has made online competition and consumer issues a compliance and enforcement priority."
The ACCC is seeking declarations, injunctions, community service orders, pecuniary penalties and costs.
Sunday Times 21 July 2013
BOUNCERS should be better trained to identify and handle drunk patrons, says the organisation that represents more than 80 per cent of the state's pubs, hotels and bars.
The Australian Hotels Association believes the training should be mandatory - just as it is for hospitality staff who serve alcohol at licensed venues.
Many pubs and clubs already put their security staff through the responsible service of alcohol (RSA) course, while others don't. In NSW, the training is mandatory for crowd controllers in licensed venues.
"Crowd controllers should be better trained in this area and required to complete RSA training," AHA WA chief Bradley Woods said.
The training includes conflict resolution, how to identify a drunk person and explains when it's an offence to serve alcohol to someone.
"The benefits that would be brought to the industry by mandatory RSA training for crowd controllers is education in how to deal with specific situations and awareness of the provisions of state legislation and regulations," Mr Woods said.
He said training could be made mandatory through a change in police policy. His call was supported by several publicans and health expert Mike Daube.
"Some of the issues they (security staff) face may be different (from bar staff), but they may still be difficult and complex and require sound training," Prof Daube said.
Northbridge bar owner Mike Keiller said he supported RSA training for crowd controllers and included it in his submission to the Liquor Control Act review committee.
A recent survey by the WA Drug and Alcohol Office found three-quarters of pub and club goers wanted bouncers to stop drunks from entering venues.
But WA Police detective inspector Tony Vidovich said making it mandatory for all crowd controllers to be RSA trained would be a problem because not all worked at licensed premises.
The Brisbane Hotel in Highgate is having all its security staff trained in RSA.
"To provide a safe and enjoyable environment for our patrons, having our crowd controllers properly trained is vital," general manager Mark Patterson.
City bars Print Hall and the Cheeky Sparrow confirmed their security staff were also RSA trained and Crown Perth said all its security contractors underwent the training.
THE WEST AUSTRALIAN 18 July 2013
Hotel stay tops $200 a night
PERTH MOST EXPENSIVE
The average price of a night in a Perth hotel has broken through the $200 barrier and is still the nation’s highest, despite a recent decline in occupancy levels.
But, according to Deloitte’s halfyearly tourism and hotel market outlook, fewer corporate travellers and the cancellation of several major resources projects will restrict increases over the next three years.
The outlook, to be released today, said Perth’s average room rate was $200 a night, compared with the national average of $150 and second placed Sydney’s average of $196.
It is expected to increase to $239 by the end of 2015 — down from the $259 predicted at the end of last year.
“Growth in occupancies and room rates in markets associated with mining-related corporate travel, such as Perth and Brisbane, is forecast to be more subdued than in recent years as the resource related construction boom reaches its peak,” the outlook said.
“At the same time, the weakening of the Australian dollar is forecast to provide further support for room rates and occupancies in the leisure-orientated markets.”
Australian Hotels Association WA chief executive Bradley Woods said Perth hotel occupancy had fallen 9.5 per cent over the past 12 months.
“While the forecast for mining related corporate travel is to be more subdued, it will still maintain a strong and healthy position as a core element of the Perth hotel market,” he said. “Growth in the leisure market is still critical to Perth’s long-term hotel industry success and encouragement of new investment and infrastructure.”
The Deloitte report said tourism operators would welcome the falling Australian dollar.
But while the dollar’s decline would have minimal impact on an international traveller’s decision to come to Australia, it would have a big impact on the amount they spent once they arrived.
“We forecast, for example, that as the dollar moderates over the next three years, expenditure by international holiday visitors will grow 8 per cent per year in real terms,” it said. The report said this growth would be led by Asian tourists, with China the largest contributor.
But it said Chinese tourists did not tend to stay in Australia very long — the average being 11.1 nights, compared with 27.4 nights for all international visitors.
“Despite their relatively short stay, overall expenditure by Chinese visitors was only slightly lower than other international visitors, due to their average daily spend of $212 compared to $99 for an average international holiday visitor,” the report said.
The West Australian 23 July 2013 Tourism industry not happy with loss
The tourism industry yesterday reacted with disappointment at the loss of a minister it widely supported and urged Colin Barnett to replace Kim Hames with another senior Government figure.
Hospitality industry chief Bradley Woods branded the Premier’s decision an “overreaction”, saying there was plenty of precedent for MPs paying back innocently claimed expenses without penalty.
Tourism Council chief executive Evan Hall said Dr Hames’ crowning achievement was this year’s election promise to increase the portfolio’s budget by $24 million over four years from 2013-14.
“We did regard Dr Hames very highly as a very effective tourism minister,” Mr Hall said.
“We’re pleased that the Premier has decided to fill the role on a temporary basis because the next couple of weeks are critical. We have an election commitment from the Government for an additional $6 million per annum over four years.
“Without that money, we will lose jobs. With that money, we will start to get jobs back.”
Mr Hall said tourism had suffered as a sidelined industry during the peak of mining amid a high Australian dollar.
Mr Woods said Dr Hames had been one of the best tourism ministers in the past 10 years.
“An administrative error should not be a hanging offence,” he said.
Tourism WA chairman Peter Prendiville said he was disappointed by the loss.
“Kim was a passionate advocate for WA’s tourism industry,” he said.
“He worked exceptionally hard to gain a good understanding of the industry, with a view to making a difference.”
This month it was revealed that Federal Opposition Leader Tony Abbott had to pay back $9000 in travel expenses he wrongly claimed for a 2009 tour to promote his book.
Dr Hames said he was sorry to lose a portfolio he really enjoyed.
“There are a lot of people out there in the tourism industry who are fabulous people,” he said.
“I’ve really liked working with them and I wish them the best.”
Mr Barnett acknowledged that the industry would not be happy with Dr Hames’ demotion.
He said he had not given thought to who would replace Dr Hames but it would be an existing minister.
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