The Territory's best hospitality venues and staff were recognised at the industry' premier awards this week.
More than 500 industry leaders gathered to celebrate Territory's one-of-a-kind hospitality industry - employing around 6,000 Territorians and injecting $427 million into the Territory economy.
Finocchiaro CLP Government will continue to back hospitality as we rebuild the economy and restore our lifestyle.
More than 500 representatives from the Territory's hospitality industry gathered at the Darwin Ski Club last night to celebrate long-standing operators and rising stars.
The industry's premier event, 2026 Hospitality NT Aristocrat Technologies Awards for Excellence, recognised venues, teams, and individuals who have shown outstanding excellence over the past twelve months.
Minister for Tourism and Hospitality, Marie-Clare Boothby congratulated all winners and nominees, acknowledging the crucial role hospitality plays in the Territory's economy and lifestyle.
"Our hospitality industry really is the front door to our unique lifestyle, and at the heart of important moments and our everyday life," Minister Boothby said.
"Hospitality is also at the heart of the Territory's economy, supporting thousands of local jobs and demonstrating to visitors the warmth and authenticity that Territorians and visitors know and love."
Major winners included Hilton Garden Inn, who were named Best Overall Accommodation Hotel. The Darwin Services Club was awarded Best Overall Club. And The Cinema Collective, home to both Sweethearts and Flicks, took out Best Overall Pub/Tavern. They also won Best Overall Metropolitan Pub/Tavern for the second year in a row.
Justin Coleman, Co-owner and Director of The Cinema Collective, said the team were incredibly proud to be recognised across multiple awards.
"To be recognised two years running is a huge honour, particularly in such a strong and competitive hospitality scene," Mr Coleman said.
"Our team works incredibly hard to stay at the forefront of hospitality while also showcasing the Top End to visitors and locals alike. This award reflects their passion and commitment to delivering a great experience every time."
Regional venues were also strongly represented, with the iconic Berry Springs Tavern named Best Overall Regional Pub/Tavern. Club Eastside was recognised as Best Overall Regional Club and the Daly Waters Pub was awarded Best Wayside Inn/Outback Pub.
Individual excellence was also recognised, with Dinushka Goonathilake (Hilton Garden Inn) awarded Service Excellence Front of House, and Katie Pinker from Berry Springs Tavern named Apprentice/Trainee of the Year.
Minister Boothby said the awards highlighted the depth of talent across the Territory and the Finocchiaro CLP Government's commitment to backing the industry.
"While not every business is starting this season from the same position, we are focused on making sure operators have the support and certainty they need to succeed."
"That's why we continue to cut red-tape in line with our Approvals Fast-Track commitments - to enable business owners to grow, employ more Territorians, and elevate our profile as the best place to live, work, visit and invest."
"In our year of growth, certainty, and security, we'll continue to back local operators, support local jobs, and make the Territory the best place to do business."
