10 June 2021
Ms TRISH DOYLE (Blue Mountains)—On Saturday I was honoured to attend a very special celebration in my electorate – the official opening of Hotel Etico at Mount Victoria Manor - Australia's first social enterprise hotel providing employment, training and independent living opportunities to people with intellectual disability. It was a joy to be there and meet all involved in this inspiring project, particularly the six 'Hospitality Trainees' who are embarking on a career in hospitality. Georgia Davidson, Jacob McAndrew, Katrina Sneath, Quinn Jones, Harry Wastie-Pero and Joshua Gray work in all operational functions of the hotel, gaining experiences and developing skills that are already increasing their confidence and building their independence. Hotel Etico represents a movement that is breaking down the barriers preventing people with disabilities from achieving their full potential. General Manager Stella Sgambellone and the team have created a warm, inclusive workplace that leads by example to shift community perspective about people with disability. The first Hotel Etico opened in the north Italian town of Asti in 2015 and the social enterprise has grown to include 5 hotels worldwide. I am extremely proud that Australia's first Hotel Etico is located in beautiful Mount Victoria in my Blue Mountains electorate.