On Tuesday 26 May, the who’s who of the Territory hospitality scene descended on the Darwin Ski Club last night for Hospitality NT’s 2026 Awards for Excellence. With close to 500 industry movers, shakers, venue owners, chefs, bartenders, marketers and hospitality legends gathered under the stars, it was a night that proved one thing: nobody throws a party quite like the Northern Territory hospitality industry.

And what a party it was.

More than 313 nominations were submitted across dozens of categories. The stakes were high, the outfits were on point and the celebrations were well earned.

Stealing the spotlight was The Cinema Collective, which practically needed its own trailer to carry home the silverware. The hospitality powerhouse secured an impressive five awards, including Best Overall Pub/Tavern, Best Late Night Venue, Best Marketed Pub and Best All Abilities Venue. Their rising star, Patrick Young, also claimed the Hospitality Industry Rising Star Award – General Division, proving the future of Territory hospitality is in very capable hands.

Darwin Services Club

Novotel, Mercure & Ibis Darwin Airport 

Not to be outdone, Darwin Services Club continued its remarkable comeback story, collecting four major awards including Best Overall Club and Best New Venue. The revitalised Admiralty House venue has quickly become one of Darwin’s most talked-about destinations, blending heritage charm with a fresh new energy.

The accommodation sector also had plenty to celebrate. Hilton Garden Inn checked in for a stellar evening, taking out Best Overall Accommodation Hotel and Best Mid Range Accommodation, while beloved team member Dinushka Goonathilake was recognised for Service Excellence Front of House.

Meanwhile, Berry Springs Tavern showed that great venues are built by great people, with Sophie Colley winning Marketing/Sales/Events Employee of the Year and Katie Pinker named Apprentice/Trainee of the Year.

Of course, it wouldn’t be a Territory celebration without recognising the unique experiences and products that make the Top End unlike anywhere else. Sunrise Journeys at Ayers Rock Resort claimed Best Tourism Initiative, while Darwin Distilling Co’s Alice Dry Gin proved the Territory’s craft beverage scene is still raising the bar and while we are raising the bar, we have to mention Hanky Panky taking home the Best Small Bar Award.

But beyond the trophies, the applause and the occasional happy dance, the night was a reminder of what makes Territory hospitality so special. It’s the people pouring the beers, plating the meals, greeting guests, running events, training apprentices, making the beds and creating experiences that locals and visitors remember long after the last drink is served.

For one glittering evening, the industry put down the order pads, stepped away from the bar and celebrated itself.

And frankly, nobody deserved it more.

The next big celebration for the NT Hospitality industry will be the Gold Plate Awards – with nominations now open, and the awards night held on Monday 24 August. TQ

Hanky Panky Lounge