Sawyers Arms Tavern A State Finalist In Seven Categories - AHA Awards
We’re delighted to share that our Newtown pub Sawyers Arms Tavern has been announced as a finalist in seven categories in the 2025 Australian Hoteliers Association (Vic) State Awards.
Sawyers Arms Tavern Finalist Categories:
Overall Hotel of the Year – Regional
Best Casual Dining - Regional
Parma of the Year - Regional
Chef of the Year - Mario Tambajong
Venue Manager of the Year - Morgan Hampstead
Eileen’s Charcoal Grill Finalist Categories:
Best Pub Restaurant - Regional
Best Refurbished Venue Space
Mario Tambajong, Morgan Hampstead, Paul Upham at Sawyers Arms Tavern
“The awards for our Venue Manager Morgan Hampstead and Chef Mario Tambajong are very special to us. They’ve worked exceptionally hard with their teams over the last three years to create an amazing environment at the hotel.”
In the three years since we took over the reins at Sawyers Arms Tavern, we’ve worked hard to honour the legacy of the Clatworthy family while bringing our own vision to life.
Our historic building has been renovated and extended to create a diverse range of premium dining experiences:
Eileen’s Charcoal Grill, opened in June 2024, is a steak-focused, European-style bistro. It features an intimate dining space with classic old-world character, designed in collaboration with interior designer Pip Johnston, who has overseen all of our venue refurbishments.
In just six months of trading, Eileen’s Charcoal Grill has been named a finalist by the Australian Hotel Association for Best Restaurant - Regional and Best Refurbished Venue Space.
“Mario Tambajong and Adam Zelley have been outstanding with the food and service at Eileen’s. It’s wonderful that their hard work recognised in these awards.”
Two Noble, our Asian fine dining restaurant, opened in 2023. Two Noble emphasizes shared dining, encouraging guests to take a culinary journey through Southeast Asia. Fresh seafood, locally sourced meat, and seasonal produce are accompanied by intriguing cocktails and a considered wine list that champions exceptional independent vineyards. Two Noble was awarded a Chef’s Hat in 2024 and 2025.
Most recently, an extension was added to the rear of the venue. The Courtyard is an indoor/outdoor bar and function space for up to 60 people. The space features a louvred roof that opens up to the sky and an open fireplace for colder days.
With three restaurants, versatile function spaces, free parking and a commitment to quality food and service, we’re proud to see Sawyers Arms Tavern grow as a leading hospitality destination in regional Victoria.
A big thank you to our customers who continue to support us!
Winners will be announced at the AHA Awards For Excellence on 19 May, 2025.