There are a few reasons why Ainslie Smith loves having a career in hospitality, but most of all it’s her passion for people. We caught up with Ainslie to find out what makes working at The Albert Park Hotel special, and about her trip to Townsville to celebrate her win in Morris Hospitality’s Summer Stars program.
I’ve just recently celebrated my two-year anniversary working at The Albert Park Hotel (APH). I started off as a runner but moved into the role of section waiter pretty soon after. I also jump behind the bar from time to time – I will say I do pour a mean pot of CBCo.
I’ve worked in and out of hospitality since I was 14. My first job was at Subway, but since then I worked in London at an old workman’s pub. I’m originally from Perth and before moving to Melbourne I managed a café, worked in a food truck serving acai bowls, was a barista, and then moved into training people to be baristas. I’m an actor and screenwriter by training, so hospitality is great inspiration for characters!
The thing I love about working in hospitality is being able to interact with all different kinds of people. I love having a chat with everyone, hearing people’s stories, and just general chats about their days. It’s so fun. I’ve made really great friends with some of our guests which is such a reward. It gives me a great opportunity to work on my improv and comedy chops, and an excellent excuse to chat about food and wine all day.
It’s a pretty special team at APH. Knowing I get to work with some of my favourite people every day, is just the best thing. I also can’t go past our regulars: the banter, life chats, and just general warmth these people show are what make APH so special. It’s not every venue where you can go from in-depth footy chats with the old boys, to life chats with the book ladies, and finish off the day with a good celeb gossip sesh with the gals. I also love a really busy service on the pass. I feel like I’m in my own personal episode of The Bear.
Spring racing season is always fun at APH. I have zero idea about who is going to win anything, but it’s always fun to see the people post races come in all dressed up. Grand Prix weekend is also something I really look forward to – the venue really comes alive.
I was pretty overwhelmed to win the Summer Stars competition to be honest. I’m still not convinced I did anything other-worldly to deserve it. The prize trip to Townsville was incredible: a hidden gem. Ardo itself is so stunning, and I could happily continue spending my days by the pool with a book in one hand and a strawberry daquiri in the other. The food on offer was next level! Dancing the night away at the (Townsville nightclub and institution) Mad Cow with one of my closest friends Maddy was chef’s kiss good.
I’m so grateful for the recognition of my work, and that of the team around me. I’m not an island, so the award also just demonstrates how hard the entire team at APH works. It does make me feel proud to know that me just being myself and treating people the way I’d want to be treated is award worthy.
Goals wise, I just want to continue getting better, and just keep doing what I’m doing. I will happily take any new opportunity that comes my way, as long as I can keep the guests laughing and smiling, that’s the goal!