Pub wins top spot

By Kath Gannaway
THE Home Hotel’s “unique old-world atmosphere” was just one of a number of attributes which impressed judges in the Australian Hotels Association State Awards for Excellence.
The Launching Place hotel last week won the title of Best Country Pub at the awards night held in Melbourne.
Owners Peter and Denise Carter were thrilled with the award which recognises, they say, a lot of hard work by themselves, their son Brad, daughter Janine, and their staff.
The hotel was one of six finalists on the night and the award is all the more relevant, Mr Carter said, with the judging being done anonymously.
“They don’t introduce themselves they just leave a card under the plate when they leave,” he said. “We were away at the time, the place was full and everything was running as it should at its best. The staff do a great job and we have to give a lot of the credit to them. Without good staff you don’t get these awards.”
The judges commented on the popularity of the hotel, which they rated as a true country pub.
“The Home Hotel at Launching Place offers many great facilities featuring a traditional front bar, TAB and excellent bistro lounge,” they said.
Mr and Mrs Carter said their comments on the “extensive variety of wines and a good choice of beers,” were fantastic but their comments on the efficient service was particularly pleasing.
“Food quality and presentation is exceptional and provides good value for money,” they said.
The Carters have had the pub for just over four years and have worked to create an atmosphere which is both family-friendly, has a ‘home’ atmosphere for the locals and offers tourists a touch of country hospitality.
“We are very lucky to have the highway at the front and the Warburton Trail at the back which brings in a lot of tourists,” Mr Carter said. “With the locals we get a lot of repeat business, which is always a good indicator that you are doing something right.”
Mrs Carter said there had been lots of congratulatory messages and flowers with patrons and staff all sharing in the excitement of the win.
The hotel is also part of an accord operating with other publicans along the Warburton Highway and with local police to ensure that any trouble-makers who are banned from one pub, can’t find a safe haven at another venue.
“The accord has made the job a lot easier and has lifted the standard of all the hotels which is good for everyone,” Mr Carter said.