'Hospitality Heroes' Program Serves Up Skills & Smiles in Youth Week

Published on 11 April 2025

More than forty Year 9-11 Deniliquin High School students were introduced to the world of hospitality through Edward River Council’s (ERC) 'Hospitality Heroes' training sessions, offered to the students this week as part of NSW Youth Week 2025.

The two training sessions, funded by ERC and the NSW Government, and developed and facilitated by the team at the Coach House Hotel, were met with great enthusiasm and participation.

The training sessions covered three key areas: coffee making, table preparation and waiting, and working in a kitchen. Students were attentive and engaged as they cycled through each subject area, gaining valuable skills and experience.

The team at the Coach House provided an excellent and comprehensive training experience, ensuring that the students received top-notch instruction.

Damon Wilson, co-owner of the Coach House, opened the young peoples minds up to the many interstate and international opportunities that experience in hospitality can lead to, and how many unexpected doors can open if you master the basics.

ERC CEO Jack Bond dropped in on the Friday training session and was highly impressed with the students' progress. "I was struck with both the range of skills that the students had picked up so quickly and their positive ‘can-do’ attitude," said Mr Bond.

"This training has been a fantastic community collaboration, showcasing the potential for our young people to pursue careers in the hospitality industry. By working together, we are opening doors for future opportunities and inspiring the next generation of hospitality professionals."

Deniliquin High School staff, including Susan Laing, Pam Sinha, Donna Van Lieshout, were crucial in building enthusiasm and facilitating student participation in the program. 

Teacher and Careers Advisor, Pam Sinha sees the training as a great chance to build foundational skills around customer service. "I’ve watched the students really engage over the past few days, they have responded positively and learned valuable, transferrable skills. We are thankful to ERC for offering these career-building opportunities.”

This year's Youth Week theme focuses on celebrating every young person’s unique strengths and recognising their individual and collective power as current and future influencers, leaders, and decision-makers.

Edward River Council is proud to support this initiative and looks forward to continuing to provide opportunities for youth development in the community.

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