THIS MONTHS PRIZE - Spirit of the Coorong Experience
2x Adult Tour Tickets for a Full Day Coorong Experience with Spirit of the Coorong
Journey through the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage of the Coorong on this immersive full-day adventure. Cruise from Goolwa to the Murray Mouth, explore iconic sites from Storm Boy, and gain deep insights into Ngarrindjeri culture with a guided walk through ancient midden sites and a traditional smoke ceremony. Spot native wildlife, dig for pipis (Kuti) on the beach, and enjoy a delicious onboard lunch as the stunning scenery unfolds. A perfect experience for nature lovers, bird watchers, and those seeking a true connection to this remarkable landscape.
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.
MARCH FLEURIEU PENINSULA SERVICE STAR
Kim Lawrence
A Shot of Personality: Local Favourite Kim Named March’s Fleurieu Peninsula Service Star
The Fleurieu Peninsula is more than just breathtaking vistas and world-class experiences—it’s the people who make it unforgettable. And this month’s Service Star is serving up more than just coffee. Kim, the beloved barista at The Bean Machine in Strathalbyn, has been named March’s Fleurieu Peninsula Service Star, celebrated for her quick wit, infectious energy, and knack for brewing coffee with a side of banter.
Kim’s Story: Brewing Coffee, Banter & a Fridge Full of Magnets
A self-confessed city girl turned Strathalbyn local, Kim has embraced her new country lifestyle with open arms. With her husband and two young kids, Kim made the leap from Adelaide to Strathalbyn in 2020, seeking a closer connection to family. The move has been nothing short of rewarding. “There’s so much to offer young families, and the sense of community here is amazing,” she says. “It’s the perfect blend of country charm and city convenience.”
Kim has been brewing at The Bean Machine for three years, making countless coffees (despite not being a coffee drinker herself – she prefers a black tea ‘like her heart,’ she jokes). But it’s not just her barista skills that keep people coming back; it’s her quick wit, cheeky humour, and ability to make every customer feel like a friend.
Her relationships with regulars go beyond just coffee orders – many bring her fridge magnets from around the world, a collection that now covers her entire fridge. “I love that connection with people. Customers know my kids, and when my family visits, they’ll sit and chat with them. It’s more than just serving coffee – it’s about being part of their day.”
When she’s not behind the coffee machine, Kim enjoys exploring the region with her family. From feeding the ducks at the Strathalbyn Memorial Gardens to train rides and trips to Urimbirra Wildlife Park, she loves the Fleurieu’s relaxed lifestyle and stunning scenery. Her go-to recommendation for visitors? A stop at Port Elliot Bakery for their famous monthly doughnut or a day by the foreshore at one of the Fleurieu’s hidden gems, Milang.
The Fleurieu Peninsula Service Stars program shines a light on hospitality workers who go the extra mile, recognising their role in creating memorable visitor experiences and supporting the region’s tourism industry. Kim’s dad jokes on tap have earnt her a lavish stay at Beresford Estate Luxury Suites accompanied by a complementary tasting in the Beresford Estate Tasting Pavilion.
With an unwavering love for community connection and genuine camaraderie, Kim embodies everything that makes the Fleurieu Peninsula’s hospitality scene feel special. If you haven’t yet met this month’s Service Star, drop into The Bean Machine in Strathalbyn – and maybe bring a magnet.
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]
