The Westin Melbourne won the prestigious ‘Best Overall Hotel’ Award at the 2004 AHA National Awards for Excellence.

Media personality, David Fordham announced the winners from 180 finalists throughout Australia who contested across 22 categories in a bid to achieve the ultimate recognition in the hospitality industry.

The Best Overalll Hotel Award was judged on all aspects of a hotel’s operations and the Westin Melbourne assured an outstanding experience for visitors.

Hotelier of the Year was awarded to Victorian hotelier, Bill Bell from Bells Hotel, South Melbourne. Bill has been a Councillor for the AHA Victoria since 1979, a member of the executive since 2002 and has recently been awarded life membership.

National President of the AHA, Mr John Thorpe said that the AHA is always looking to encourage excellence in the hotel industry and the Awards is an important tool for raising standards across the nation.
“The biggest winner is the community. Properties like the Conrad Treasury Brisbane, the Breakfast Creek Hotel Queensland, Mount Gambier Hotel South Australia and the Arthouse Hotel Sydney continue to set new benchmarks for the hotel industry,” said Mr Thorpe.

Cruise was awarded Best Restaurant following tough competition from other superior hotel restaurants including the Hope Island Tavern QLD, Subiaco Hotel WA, the Westin Melbourne and Zeffirelli ACT.

The annual Awards for Excellence recognise excellence in service and dining throughout Australia. Hotel industry legends, tourism leaders and celebrities gathered at the Jupiter Conrad Ballroom on October 14 for the gala awards night.

Major Award Winners

Best Bistro – Greenwood Hotel, WA
Best Training – Intercontinental Sydney, NSW
Community Service – Waterloo Cup Hotel, VIC
Best Bar Presentation & Service – Oxford 152 QLD and Arthouse NSW

To view complete list of 2004 award winners click here