18/11/2025
Last night we flew to the Gold Coast to celebrate hospitality at the AHA National Awards for Excellence — and what a night it was! Our very own Matty B, after taking out the State Rising Star Award in October, was nominated for the National Rising Star Award… and he WON!
For the first time in 15 years, this award has gone to a Tasmanian, and we couldn’t be prouder that it’s our Matty B bringing it home.
Matt joined Albi’s almost five years ago with very little industry experience — his previous role was as a barista at McDonald’s. He couldn’t yet clear a table professionally, present wine, or bridge plates. But what he did bring was a beautiful heart, endless positive energy, and a can-do attitude. And from the moment I met him, I knew I wanted him on our team.
He started in a back-bar position while he found his feet, and step by step, he climbed the ranks. From polishing glassware and cutlery as a casual employee, he’s grown into a leader who now manages 30+ staff, creates cocktail menus, runs the bar, writes drinks lists, runs the floor, and everything in between.
He’s built a genuine career in hospitality, completed his WSET Level 2 with High Distinction, and has become a loved and respected manager. And if you’ve met him, you already know — he’s an all-round top human.
I am so proud, and so grateful, for everything he has brought to St Albi, to our team, and to me personally. Thank you, Matty, for taking everything in your fancy stride, for staying cool, calm and collected under pressure, and for always bringing your A-game.
You are our poster boy for hospitality.
Congratulations on the win, Matty Boy — the entire Albi family is high-fiving you all the way!
