The Australian Hotels Association NSW (AHA NSW) has released the list for the 2022 Awards for Excellence naming the Victoria as finalists for Best Regional Redevelopment and Best traditional pub accommodation (under $130).
The Awards are For Excellence Are Recognised As The Most Prestigious Awards Programme In The Hospitality Industry. The Awards Honour The Achievement Of Excellence In NSW Hotels Across A Variety Of Categories Including Accommodation, Dining and Entertainment.
Amidst COVID-19 lockdowns, The Victoria took the opportunity to renovate and redevelop the hotels first floor and renovate the rooms extremely tired accommodation. Much like ground floor, the artful style, personality & fresh feels shines through. This expanded the offering, to the short stay accommodation market, which is the perfect match as the Bathurst Region is a great place to visit.
Spacious rooms, with views of Keppel & Havannah streets were lightened & modernised to suit travelling families, couples & solo travellers. An upgrade of the shared bathroom facilities also made use of local trades & heritage themes continue to shine throughout. Utilising local artists within the accommodation wing of the hotel, incorporating quality striking artwork and murals.
A major change since the relaunch is the absence of poker machines; Music, food and drinks play an important role in bringing people together. Hotel Owner, Heath Smith said “the absence of gaming has allowed the venue to concentrate their efforts on promoting alternate and inspiring forms of entertainment.”
The Victoria celebrated a Summer of Premium Australian Artists, featuring Josh Pyke, Katie Noonan and The Whitlam’s Official Black Stump Band. Local crowds and avid fans, hit the jackpot with artists’ perform in front of sell-out crowds. The Whitlam’s Frontman, Tim Freedman said “The Victoria is a unique regional Pub, owned and operated by people with a love of live music ” He sees this as a key regional venue with a big future ahead.
The Victoria small but mighty team hope to take out the win for all categories, the winners announced on October 24th in Barangaroo.
The Victoria team continues to pave the way as a pokie free, family and dog friendly food, drink, arts, live music and accommodation precinct. All finalist can be found here: https://prod-aha-web.s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/20220905165115/2022_AHA_Awards22_Finalists_List_.pdf
