Delivered in collaboration with the Regional Industry Education Partnerships (RIEP) program, Hospitality Hotshots connects schools with local employers to provide meaningful, hands-on career exploration experiences for students.
Now in its second year, the program gives Year 10 to 12 students across the Central Coast a practical and inspiring introduction to the many career paths hospitality has to offer.
Initially launched as an introductory tour and optional work experience opportunity, the program has evolved in 2025 into a fully interactive, activity-based format. Held in The Gallery, Gosford RSL’s premier event space, the event saw students rotate through hands-on stations that showcased key departments of the Club’s operations.
Students engaged in practical activities across areas such as food presentation, front-of-house service, event setup, laundry operations, and pizzeria preparation. The aim was to offer a genuine insight into the skills and teamwork involved in delivering outstanding hospitality experiences.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to see students discover career possibilities they hadn’t considered before,” said Kate Vane-Tempest, Human Resource Officer at Gosford RSL.
“Hospitality is a people-first industry, and this program gives young people the chance to experience that energy and purpose first-hand. It’s not only about skills. It’s about confidence, connection, and seeing a future they can be part of.”
Participants were encouraged to ask questions and interact with staff to gain a deeper understanding of the industry. Many discovered new interests and preferences, from the pace of the kitchen to the logistics of event management or the service focus of accommodation roles.
The overarching goal of the program is to reframe hospitality as a long-term, professional career option rather than short-term casual work. With pathways ranging from culinary arts and guest services to leadership and events, the industry offers diverse and rewarding opportunities for young people.
Feedback from students, teachers, and career advisers has been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the structure, engagement, and relevance of the experience.
The Hospitality Hotshots program reflects Gosford RSL’s broader commitment to youth development and community support, reinforcing the Club’s role as both a major employer and a partner in building local futures.
The club plans to expand the program in 2026, strengthening partnerships with local schools and exploring additional pathways to training and employment within the Club and wider industry.
