Huntlee Tavern Takes Out NSW Top Live Music Venue
BY DI SNEDDON
Don’t be mistaken by the image.
There are far more than tambourines and guitars at Huntlee Tavern.
Yes, these two celebrationary instruments come out for personal renditions and tableside performances of ‘happy birthday’ by staff but you know there is far more to it after the tavern took out best live music venue at the Australian Hotel NSW Awards for Excellence 2022 announced last week.
Huntlee Tavern was also announced finalists in another five awards: best food under $15, best regional chef, regional development award, best family friendly and best regional wagering.
Tavern manager Mat Sargent said of all the categories, best live music venue was not the category he thought they would win.
“Everyone is chuffed, we even beat the Beaches Hotel at Byron Bay, so it is a huge win for us,” Mat said.
“We are all as proud as punch, our patrons are just as excited as the staff.”
Owner Jason Gavin said they had spent a lot of time on the music component, offering different varieties of music from DJs on Friday nights along with big national DJs, the likes of Savage and Sneaky Sound System.
Huntlee Tavern has different tribute bands on a regular basis and once a quarter throw in big name acts such as Thirsty Merc and the Radiators.
“We want to make sure people have a good time here, we offer great customer service, great food and we cater for everyone,” Mat said.
It was a gap in the market that Jason identified early on as construction at Huntlee first began and investing in the tavern came with conscious sustainable decisions such as using recycled bricks and timber in its construction.
Huntlee Tavern is now in the running to win the National Best Live Music Excellence Award to be announced late this month.
But, in the meantime, they are certainly all celebrating this fantastic New South Wales award.