NSW’s finest shine at the 2025 Accommodation Awards for Excellence
One of the night’s most moving moments came as the room rose to its feet for Michael Johnson’s Hall of Fame induction—honouring a career marked by tireless advocacy, steady leadership, and deep commitment to Australia’s accommodation sector.
The best in the business were recognised last night (Thursday July 17) at the 2025 Accommodation Australia NSW Awards for Excellence, as industry leaders, rising stars, and top-performing properties gathered at Darling Island Wharf in Sydney for a record-breaking celebration.
Over 380 nominations were received across 40-plus categories this year, making it the most competitive event in the awards’ history.
From family-run regional motels to luxury five-star hotels in the heart of Sydney, the awards showcased the diversity and strength of New South Wales’ accommodation sector.
Accommodation Australia NSW General Manager Stacey McBride said the calibre of entries highlighted the industry’s resilience and innovation.
“These are hotels which lead the way in innovation, in staffing and in service and the task of narrowing down the finalists in each category to just one winner was extremely difficult for our team of independent judges,” she said.
“I congratulate all the winners for their commitment to our industry, their commitment to serving people, and for their huge contribution to the NSW economy.”
One of the most emotional and well-deserved moments of the evening was the induction of Michael Johnson, former CEO of Accommodation Australia, into the Hall of Fame.
A true stalwart of the industry, Mr Johnson received a standing ovation as he took to the stage, acknowledging his decades of leadership, advocacy, and unwavering dedication to Australia’s accommodation and tourism sector.
His induction marks a career defined by collaboration, progress, and a deep respect for the people behind the scenes who keep hotels running. Known for his calm leadership during challenging periods, including the COVID-19 pandemic, Michael Johnson remains a widely respected figure in the national hospitality community.
Other major winners on the night, included Capella Sydney, which claimed both Luxury Hotel of the Year and Bar of the Year for McRae Bar. The Darling was named Metropolitan Deluxe Hotel of the Year, while Bells at Killcare claimed Regional Deluxe Hotel of the Year.
Berrima Bakehouse Motel was awarded Motel of the Year, and Pan Pacific Hotels Group received the award for Best Environmental/Sustainability Practices.
Hotel Etico was recognised with the Disability Inclusion & Access Award.
Best Boutique Accommodation Experience was awarded to Ovolo Woolloomooloo. Song Hotel Sydney received the Redeveloped/Refurbished Property of the Year award.
And Best Innovation Project went to Rydges Resort Hunter Valley.
More highlights:
Housekeeper of the Year: Jane Yoo, Shangri-La Sydney.
Engineer of the Year: Craig Cavers, W Sydney.
Industry Rising Star: Sade Vasquez, Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour
For a full list of winners, visit: www.accommodationawardsnsw.org
