Bernie was attracted to the fun, fast paced environment of hospitality in the mid 90’s. He took a job as a bartender at the Shellharbour Workers Club and straight away enjoyed the social aspect. The team would catch up on their day’s off and enjoy each other’s company  – forming lifelong friendships.  

At first Bernie didn’t appreciate the variety of managerial and professional roles available within the club sector given its scale. It didn’t take long for Bernie to see that a professional career path could exist for him in the industry – all while enjoying life on the South Coast.  

A highlight for Bernie over the last 7 years as CEO at the Shoalhaven Ex Servo’s, has been the introduction of ‘The Growers’ venue to attract a new demographic – increasing the diversity and sustainability of the club while reducing dependency on gaming. He’s also proud of the way he’s invested in the leadership capabilities of the executive team and their community outreach efforts… 

Reflecting on his career journey Bernie remembers taking on any challenge thrown his way and investing in higher education – starting with a TAFE certificate in Hospitality. He was soon invited to take part in a new customer service concierge initiative at the Workers Club – where only 3 or 4 people were handpicked from across the whole organisation for the task. 

From there he did a 5-year stint in the Hotel sector as an Assistant Manager and later Warilla Bowling Club – advancing his career with every move. He studied in his own time, undertaking a Bachelor of Business in Club Management & Gaming. 

His first CEO club role was at Dapto Bowling Club, then Corrimal RSL Club before taking on the top job at the Shoalhaven Ex Servos with two large premier venues where he has been a breath of fresh air, not just to the club but the wider community.  

Bernie leads by example – even volunteering his time on occasion at the Nowra Community Food Store and encouraging others in his organisation to do the same. He says the ability to pitch in wherever needed comes from having worked in all areas of clubs: 

“Picking up glasses or helping out on the front desk when there’s a queue comes very naturally when you’ve worked in various roles, especially in smaller venues where everyone needs to roll up their sleeves and be a jack of all trades.” 

“It creates an enjoyable workplace when there’s a team effort.” 

Bernie’s passion for the community and commitment to customer service is a focus he has brought to every role, including Shoalhaven Ex Servo’s where he’s introducing reward and recognition programs to further strengthen those areas. 

Bernie has volunteered on the board of several local community-based organisations, as well as in the club industry – even serving as President of the Illawarra Shoalhaven Club Managers Association. He believes in giving back to the industry and mentoring future leaders coming through. 

Bernie says he feels privileged to have grown in career entirely on the South Coast: 

“I have always been given amazing opportunities to go to the next level in my hospitality career within the club sector and I’m grateful for that.” 

“I love the South Coast – that drive as you come out of the Kiama bends and go over the hill towards Gerringong and you see the beautiful rolling green hills of Rose Valley on one side and ocean on the other is just magnificent.” 

“I’ve always been keen on fishing and the outdoors – so where better to enjoy those things?”