Program Overview
The Fleurieu Peninsula Service Star Awards celebrate the heroes of hospitality – the staff and businesses who ensure visitors feel welcomed, valued, and connected. In a region renowned for its stunning beaches, world-class wineries, and vibrant culture, it’s our service that leaves the lasting impression. This program is your opportunity to showcase your commitment to excellence, engage your team, and set a new standard for visitor experiences. Together, let’s elevate the Fleurieu Peninsula and ensure our visitors leave with indelible memories.
Vote here.
“The key is to set realistic customer expectations, and then not to just meet them, but to exceed them—preferably in unexpected and helpful ways.” – Richard Branson
How it works
- Free Participation: Any business in the Fleurieu Peninsula can join the program at no cost and customer voting is FREE!
- Boost Employee Morale: Recognising service excellence can enhance morale and encourage staff retention.
- Promote Awareness: Winners will receive regional marketing support, helping boost their profile.
- Increases Visitor Satisfaction: By highlighting and rewarding outstanding service, the program encourages businesses to enhance their customer experience, leading to higher visitor satisfaction and repeat business.
Prizes and Benefits
- Prizes worth up to $500 each month to reward top individuals in service excellence.
- Prizes may include culinary delights, accommodation or immersive experiences.
- The business that employs the monthly winner, will receive additional benefits such as digital promotion through Fleurieu Peninsula Tourism and other local media.
FEBRUARY FLEURIEU PENINSULA SERVICE STAR
Annie Roper
From Swagging Around Australia to Serving Up Smiles: Fleurieu’s Latest Service Star Shines in Strathalbyn
For many, hospitality is just a job, but for Annie Roper from Wistow on High in Strathalbyn, it’s a way of life. From working in patisserie kitchens to managing cafés across Australia and overseas, Annie has built a career on creating memorable experiences for customers. Now, after two years travelling the country with nothing but a swag and a sense of adventure, she has returned to the Fleurieu Peninsula—and has been named the latest Fleurieu Peninsula Service Star.
Originally from Littlehampton, Annie left home at 15 to begin a cheffing apprenticeship in Melbourne before moving to the Yarra Valley, where she worked as a patisserie chef. One of her career highlights was serving Maggie Beer a house-made salted caramel ice cream—an experience she still reflects on as a defining moment in her journey.
Her recent time on the road, travelling through remote and coastal regions, reinforced her appreciation for people and the way hospitality shapes experiences. Since returning, she has found her place at Wistow on High, where her enthusiasm and commitment to great service have made her an essential part of the team.
“I worked for Kel and Darren two years ago and loved it, so when the opportunity came up to re-join the team, I didn’t hesitate,” Annie said. “It’s fast, fun, and I get to work with amazing people. What’s not to love?”
Outside of work, she enjoys spending time at Port Elliot, considers Flying Fish Café her go-to for dinner, and recommends The Commercial Hotel in Strathalbyn for an afternoon drink. Despite her time exploring different parts of Australia, she admits she still hasn’t visited Rapid Bay. But it’s now on her list, thanks to winning a trip on the neighbouring Big Duck, See Wirrina Tour. In addition she has won a mixed case of world class McLaren Vale Wines, thanks to the McLaren Vale Grape, Wine and Tourism organisation.
“It’s people like Annie who bring the Fleurieu Peninsula to life, creating experiences that go beyond great service,” said Merrin Ozols, Executive Officer of Fleurieu Peninsula Tourism. “Her warmth, knowledge, and passion for hospitality don’t just make visitors feel welcome—they help them connect more deeply with this place, its stories, and its community. It’s these kinds of genuine connections that turn a simple visit into something lasting and meaningful.”
The Fleurieu Peninsula Service Stars program is designed to celebrate the region’s hospitality workers who go above and beyond. The program acknowledges the importance of exceptional service in shaping visitor experiences and strengthening the local tourism industry.
YEAR-END CELEBRATION
We'll celebrate top performers with a festive awards event at the end of the year. Top performing businesses will be in the running to receive a feature special segment on Hello SA in partnership with SATC to showcase their achievements and highlight the region.
Join us in celebrating and recognising exceptional service in the Fleurieu Peninsula! Your participation not only enhances our local community but also enriches the visitor experience.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHO CAN BE NOMINATED FOR A FLEURIEU PENINSULA SERVICE STAR AWARD?
Any individual, team, or business that consistently delivers exceptional customer service in the Fleurieu Peninsula region is eligible. This includes businesses in hospitality, retail, tourism, and other service sectors.
How can I nominate someone for a Fleurieu Peninsula Service Star Award?
You can vote and nominate a star HERE.
How are the winners selected?
The winners are selected monthly by whoever receives the most votes. The yearly winner will be reflective on who has received the most service excellence recognition throughout the year.
Are there any costs to participate or nominate?
There is no cost to nominate someone for a Fleurieu Peninsula Service Star Award. Participation in the awards ceremony and nomination process is free.
Can someone win twice in a row?
Yes, individuals and businesses can win consecutively.
When will the winner be announced and how will they be notified?
The Fleurieu Peninsula Service Star Awards is an ongoing program, there will be monthly prizes worth up to $300. Each month, a winner will be determined through the volume of public votes achieved. As the program is just launching the first winner will be announced in early January.
Each year, Fleurieu Peninsula Tourism will host a celebratory event to honour the individual and business who have earned the most recognition throughout the year. The business will win a FREE broadcast segment and social media promotion with HelloSA, and the individual will win a prize worth up to $1000.
Winners (individuals and businesses) will be informed directly by Fleurieu Peninsula Tourism using the winning business's phone or email.
Can our business share this program and get participants?
Absolutely! We encourage local businesses to get involved and spread the word of the program.
QR codes and printed display collateral can be collected from your local Visitor Information Centers, or you can also send the collateral to customers digitally or print posters out yourself, DOWNLOAD THEM HERE.
Terms and Conditions
- Votes will be accepted for retail, tourism and hospitality employees
- Nominees must be front-line staff.
- Businesses are encouraged to ask their visitors, patrons and guests to vote for good service.
- One vote maximum per month, per venue.
- Businesses must be actively listed in the Australian Tourism Data Warehouse to be eligible to vote and win.
- Part time, hourly, salaried and volunteer employees are eligible
- Both employer and winner agree to publicity, including photos, interviews, and social media posts
For questions or enquires please contact [email protected]
