GBEA winner – Tourism & Hospitality Award – The Arborist

From the food to the décor, the team behind Little Malop Street eatery and cocktail bar The Arborist have carefully handpicked every element.

Architecturally designed to transport its patrons to another world, the restaurant’s nature-inspired palette of muted green, black and earthy tones is blended across a variety of materials and textures.

Floor-to-ceiling glass windows and doors seamlessly connect the venue’s outdoor spaces with those within, and inside, the restaurant’s showpiece is an ice green marble bar.

The design complements what is, perhaps, The Arborist’s most striking feature: the building has been constructed around two mature European ash trees.

The kitchen is led by executive chef Anthony Hammel – who also oversees the restaurant’s Geelong West-based sister venue Meet Me At Marys – and head chef Chantal Chenery.

The modern Australian-inspired menu has a Middle Eastern twist and is designed to share, while the venue’s extensive beverage list has a classic lean and has been curated to offer a little of everything, from wines to suit all tastes to cocktails so highly regarded by the Geelong community, they’ve developed a cult following.

After an expansion last year saw The Arborist add a rooftop space to its offering, its dining options now span across three levels.

But it is The Arborist’s culture that most impressed this year’s judging panel, earning it a spot on the shortlist for the Business of the Year award, and securing it the Tourism and Hospitality Award, sponsored by Tourism Greater Geelong & the Bellarine.

Judge Mark Edmonds said The Arborist is a worthy recipient of the award, which recognises a business operating in the hospitality and tourism industry.

“The Arborist radiates a positive and passionate culture that is felt across the entire business, a fact that was clear to the judges from the moment they arrived,” Mr Edmonds said.

“This is a direct result of hiring the right people and fostering a healthy work-life balance, including initiatives like a four-day roster.

“The owners describe the business as an ‘Oasis’ where everyone is supported and encouraged.”

Mr Edmonds said the judges were particularly impressed with the enthusiasm of The Arborist’s team and the pride they take in their roles.

This has been key to the business’s continued success, he said.

“A strong, clear marketing strategy, backed by dedicated resources, drives an analytics-focused program that delivers results,” Mr Edmonds said.

“All of this supports an outstanding menu of delicious food.”

For more information, head to thearboristgeelong.com.au

Sponsored by Tourism Greater Geelong & the Bellarine.

Sitting at the forefront of a vibrant tourism industry, Tourism Greater Geelong & the Bellarine is the Regional Tourism Board for the region and represents more than 900 member operators.

This year, Tourism Greater Geelong & the Bellarine is the sponsor of the Tourism & Hospitality Award.

The organisation’s mission revolves around fostering a resilient, sustainable and highly valued visitor economy through dynamic leadership, strategic promotion and continuous development.

It offers businesses within the sector support, invaluable growth opportunities and a vital platform for connecting with industry peers, fostering collaboration aimed at sustainable growth in product offerings, visitation and revenue.

Tourism Greater Geelong & the Bellarine wholeheartedly believes in the uniqueness and appeal of this region, firmly holding the belief that there are few places better than Geelong and the Bellarine.

It invites everyone to join in the celebration of this extraordinary region and its boundless potential for memorable experiences.

Tourism Greater Geelong & the Bellarine