Learn from hospo’s best

HOSPITALITY training series, HospoHeros, is underway in Ballarat with a range of new instructors.

The program includes four workshops which are designed to provide front-of-house staff with specialised product knowledge and hands-on training.

John Harris and Craig Mitchell from Mitchell Harris Wines will be focusing on exceptional customer service while Karon Farm Coffee Roasters will be helping participants learn essential coffee making skills.

“When people go out, they want both value for money, as well as exceptional customer service, so as business owners we must ensure staff have the skills and knowledge to wow customers,” said Mitchell Harris’ Alicia Linley.

“We must equip our staff not only with premium menus and products to serve, but also with the expertise and capabilities to best serve these.

“The development of a culture of industry professionalism means we’re going to see long-term gain, and Ballarat being known for its great food and wine.”

Blake Hall from Itinerant Spirits will be sharing how to serve and speak to customers about local craft spirits and Aunty Jacks’ Brian Taylor will equip participants with a better understanding of aspects of beer service and handling.

“We are seeing a lot of newbies joining the industry, which is great, but it can be challenging to find the time for in-depth staff training – by banding together with other businesses, it benefits everyone,” said Mr Taylor.

“At Aunty Jacks, as a micro-brewery, we need our staff to be able to speak confidently about the craft beers we produce, and it is great to be able to share our in-house expertise to help other venues speak about Ballarat’s great local beers and hopefully sell more of these ahead of imported or mainstream beers.”

The sessions are suitable for experiences hospitability staff as well as newcomers and are fully subsidised for Tourism Midwest Victoria Industry Partners.

To register, visit the Tourism Midwest Victoria website.