Ben may have been born and bred in Rockhampton, Queensland but these days, Engadine is well and truly home. Having moved down to join his then-girlfriend, Ben found his happy place at Engadine Bowling Club and colleagues who have become lifelong friends. He’s recently married, so it’s been a move that proved to be a good one!
We asked Ben to share a little about his start in hospitality and the club industry, what he loves most about his role and our club, and his best tips for others looking to land a similar job.
How did you get started in the industry?
I grew up in Rockhampton, Queensland, and my parents used to take my sister and me to a place called the Frenchville Sports Club. We often went there, to the point where we knew the staff. So, when the opportunity came up to start working at the ‘Frenchy’, it just felt natural. When I started, I offered to work for free for two weeks to get the experience that every bar job seemed to require. They were happy to put me on, and that’s how I started.
What brought you to Engadine Bowling Club, and when did you join?
I moved from Rockhampton to Engadine midway through 2017 to attend university and live with my long-distance partner of two years. At the time, I didn’t have any work lined up, but I knew one or two of the staff at the club from previous visits. After pestering the then-Ops Manager for about a week, I finally got a start, and I’ve been here ever since. It’s been more than seven years now.
What’s been the most rewarding part of starting this new chapter with your partner?
Lauren and I met on a cruise ship in 2012, and we started dating in 2015. We spent two years in a long-distance relationship, so being able to now see her every day is a huge bonus. Lauren and I just got married [in 2024], so it definitely looks like moving here was a great decision!
What advice would you give others considering an interstate move?
It can be isolating. When I moved, I tried to stay in contact with family and friends, which helped, but going from seeing people every day to not seeing them at all is a big adjustment. So, my first piece of advice is to keep in touch with the important people in your life, whether it’s through texts, calls or whatever works. The second is to surround yourself with good people. Getting a job at the club was huge for me – it allowed me to meet and interact with great people, both staff and patrons, and I ended up forming a little family here. One of the people I’ve met here was my best man! Lastly, give yourself the freedom to be the person you want to be. It might sound cheesy, but moving away from familiar places allows you to reflect on who you are and who you want to become.
Can you share a little about your journey to becoming a supervisor here?
I already had some bar experiences when I started, so I knew the basics. When I began, I spent time on the floor and behind the bar. I kept my availability flexible, so when training opportunities came up, I grabbed them. I learned the raffles, bingo and promotions, and I also worked in the cellar, on the front door and as a courtesy bus driver. After we came back from COVID, I finally got cashier training and felt comfortable in almost every area of the club. So, I asked about possibly moving into a supervisor role, and I began training for it.
What does a typical day in your role look like?
Each day can vary greatly, depending on the shift and whether it’s day or night. Generally, I focus on making sure everything is up and running smoothly and that I’m giving the staff the support they need. I enjoy events like Melbourne Cup because there’s such great energy, and there’s always something happening. I’m also a fan of getting on the microphone when the chance comes up. You also may see me from time to time on the Club social media accounts.
How has your involvement with the AFL and other experience outside hospitality translated into your work here?
I’ve been lucky to work in many different roles throughout my career – a pizza shop, on the door at Kmart, as a driver at the salt works, and as a Development Officer/Coordinator for AFLQLD and AFLNSW, among other things. The biggest benefit of this variety is the chance to meet and build relationships with a wide range of people. Teaching kids how to play AFL, for example, has helped me to create a fun and welcoming environment, and I hope that’s something I’ve carried over into my work at the club.
How do you and the team ensure the club is a welcoming space for members and visitors?
The big secret is that we genuinely like our colleagues, members and guests. Our staff is a close-knit group, which is obvious to anyone who walks through our doors. It’s much easier to be welcoming when you’re having a good time. We have amazing staff, and we’re lucky to have some wonderful regulars who we’ve built strong relationships with, too. Overall, the bowlo is a great place to work, and I think that vibe translates into a positive experience for our guests.
What are some of your more memorable moments while working at the club?
The Christmas parties! I’ve been lucky enough to be part of a few, and any chance to spend time with people we care about is a good one. As for specific moments, Lauren used to work here, and she accidentally threw a bucket of water at another colleague while cleaning the floor, but somehow, I got blamed for it! I’ve also really enjoyed hosting the footy tipping day for the last couple of years. It’s always a good time to interact with our members.
Any tips for people looking to start their career in hospitality and club industry?
Hospitality and the club industry are great places to work – you’ll make friendships that can last a lifetime. If you want to succeed, the first thing I’d say is to make yourself available. Take on whatever shifts you can and learn as much as possible. While knowing how to pour a beer or make a cocktail is important, your ability to communicate and connect with others is just as crucial. People can eat and drink anywhere, but what brings them back is the experience you provide. Also, remember that your weekends will look different from your friends’. Your busiest days will likely be Fridays and Saturdays, so be prepared for that.
What’s the most rewarding part of your role?
The staff and members are what make this job so rewarding. Being able to come in each day and work with such a fantastic team, and interact with our guests and members, has been an absolute joy. It really makes a difference to the work you do when you enjoy being around the people you’re with.
Get to know some of the other members of the team
- Our Young Lawn Bowlers – Meet Josh
- Celebrating Carolyn Nelson as she celebrated 25 Years with the club – Meet Carolyn
- Meet Mike from Engadine Grill – Meet Mike
- Meet our Greenkeepers Jordan and Lachlan – Meet Jordan & Lachlan
