Local Legends Award
* There must be a minimum of three entrants in a category for all entrants to progress to the judging phase.
* Winner is eligible to enter the AHA National Awards (Outstanding Community Service and Achievement)
A written submission is required to assist in the assessment of this category and is required by Wednesday, 10th December 2025.
Nominees will also be subject to a Zoom interview.
This category is open to all individuals to acknowledge outstanding community service and achievement within the hospitality industry.
Documents required for submission:
- A written response describing the judging criteria below.
- Supporting documents and images, where relevant.
- A headshot of the individual
Judges will be assessing the following points in your written submission:
- Describe the individual’s active participation and support of community groups and activities.
- Highlight the connection and contribution this individual has within their local community (i.e. nickname, reputation, success stories)
- Description of the individual, and their ‘above and beyond’ behaviour that has had a positive impact on the venue, its’ staff and the broader community.
- Explain how your activities have increased the awareness of the community group/charity that you support.
- Include examples of how this individual has accommodated members of their community through initiatives at the pub
Supporting documents
- Evidence of funds raised.
- Evidence of public relations activity because of your work in the community.
Important: A concise written submission addressing all bullet points should be no more than 1,000 words in length.
Categories
Individual Employee Awards - $200 per nomination
- Emerging Leader of the Year
- Chef of the Year
- Excellence in Service
- Local Legend Award
- Apprentice of the Year
- Venue Manager of the Year
Dining Awards – $250 per nomination
Anonymous site visit reimbursement required
- Best Pub Restaurant - Regional & Metropolitan
- Best Casual Dining - Regional & Metropolitan
- Best Family Dining
General Awards - $200 per nomination
Anonymous site visit reimbursement required
- Best Pub Bar - Regional & Metropolitan
- Parma of the Year
- Best Specialty Bar
- Best Presented Beer
- Best Live Entertainment Venue
- Best Sports Bar - Regional & Metropolitan
- Best Retail Liquor Outlet
- Best Outdoor Experience - Regional & Metropolitan
- Best Rooftop Experience
- Cocktail Menu of the Year
- Best Function & Event Space
Accommodation Awards - $260 per nomination
Anonymous site visit reimbursement required
Gaming & Wagering - $200 per nomination
Anonymous site visit reimbursement required
Performance Awards - $200 per nomination
- Best Marketed Hotel
- Outstanding Achievement in Training
- Heart of the Community
- Best Hotel Group Operator
- Best Refurbished Venue Space
- Bush Pub of the Year
