The annual AHA – Perth Airport Accommodation Awards for Excellence, held on 30 March, have once again highlighted the depth of talent across Western Australia’s hospitality and accommodation sector, with this year’s employee award winners showing just how far a hospitality career can go. Across front office, housekeeping, food and beverage, administration and culinary roles, the message is consistent: strong careers are being built from the ground up.
Let’s meet the winners:
Employee Awards
Rising Star winner Jessica Birks from Holiday Inn West Perth is a clear example. Joining the team in 2024 as a Guest Services Agent, she was promoted within six months into events coordination with no prior experience. Since then, she has increased meetings and events revenue by 13.2 per cent, lifted enquiries significantly and improved conversion rates, while leading projects that improved guest feedback systems, event packages and seasonal activations.
In the kitchen, Chef Award winner Lekhnath Thapaliya (Duxton Hotel Perth) and highly commended chef Kyle Jeon (Crown Hotels Perth) demonstrate how culinary careers evolve through leadership, mentorship and high-performance event delivery.
In food and beverage, Rita Shwe (Crown Hotels Perth) has progressed from waitperson to assistant manager, now overseeing a major poolside venue delivering millions in revenue and leading large seasonal teams.
Housekeeping Award winner Moira Jones (Holiday Inn Perth City Centre) shows the impact of operational leadership, team engagement and consistent guest experience in a high-performing department.
In administration services, Isabel Ringis (The Ritz-Carlton, Perth) highlights how behind-the-scenes roles can shape strategy, guest experience and executive decision-making at a senior level.
Accommodation Reception Award winner Leah Dunnet (Hilton Garden Inn Busselton) reflects the importance of frontline guest service, problem-solving and genuine care in defining a hotel’s reputation.
Together, these careers show that hospitality is not a stepping stone. It is a long-term industry where progression is fast, opportunities are real and excellence is recognised.
To see a full list of winners, including operational teams and venues, click here.
Photographs by Ammon Creative.