‘We need to change’: Swillhouse founder responds to explosive allegations

The founder of the hospitality group in the middle a storm of serious allegations of sexual misconduct has responded in an emotional video.

Swillhouse, the hospitality group in the middle a storm of serious allegations of sexual misconduct, drug use, and harassment, has issued a formal apology two weeks after an explosive investigation.

The company, which operates some of Sydney’s most prominent venues including The Baxter Inn, Restaurant Hubert, and Shady Pines, is now in damage control mode, promising big changes.

In a statement released on Thursday, Swillhouse expressed “deep regret” and apologised to anyone within the organisation or the broader community who felt “unsupported” or “unheard”.

“We started Swillhouse with integrity and passion, but we messed up along the way, and we’re deeply sorry. We are determined that this will not happen again,” the statement read.

The group’s founder, Anton Forte, who stepped down from his role in the Australian Restaurant and Cafe Association following the allegations, recorded a video to address the scandal directly.

Although Forte is not personally accused of wrongdoing, his hospitality empire has been rocked by claims that include a disturbing bet between staff members at The Baxter Inn over who could have sex with a customer first.

The winner allegedly emerged after three hours to claim a bottle of wine worth more than $1,000.

In its statement, Swillhouse outlined a series of actions taken to rebuild its image. Among the steps is the appointment of a well-respected female leader in the hospitality industry as a Strategic Advisor. With a track record of championing women in the sector, this adviser is expected to conduct a thorough review of Swillhouse’s operations and help implement critical changes.

The group’s founder, Anton Forte, who stepped down from his role in the Australian Restaurant and Cafe Association following the allegations, recorded a video to address the scandal directly.

“We’ve welcomed one of the most respected female leaders in the industry … She will bring her extensive experience – plus independence and honesty – to review our entire operations and guide us on how and where we need to change,” the company said.

Swillhouse has also engaged two independent experts to assist in reshaping its culture and improving workplace health and safety. Hope Dawson, a current employee, has been promoted to the executive leadership team.

The group said it is fully co-operating with an inquiry by Safe Work NSW.

Despite the gravity of the allegations, Swillhouse’s statement signalled a commitment to turn things around and rebuild public trust.

“We can and will be a better business,” the statement read.

Swillhouse is determined to move forward with a “new-look” business, aiming to create a better environment for both staff and customers. However, the company acknowledges that regaining trust will be no easy task.

Jason Scott (L) and business partner Anton Forte at Baxter Inn's basement bar.

“Where we’ve lost your trust or confidence, we are committed to rebuilding it and look forward to welcoming you back to our venues.”

In damning claims revealed by the Sydney Morning Herald one former female bartender claims she was raped inside the bathrooms at Restaurant Hubert, in the city’s CBD, in 2013 after being made a cocktail with 10 different gins.

She reported the incident to police and is currently before the courts.

The hospitality group’s full statement.

Another former bartender said staff at Hubert would frequently use “the cinque room” to do lines of cocaine while working.

In February 2023, Mr Forte wrote an email to all staff removing a policy that allowed staff one free “knock-off drink” as well as a 50 per cent discount on drinks.

“This email is tough to write,” he said in the memo.

“Due to several incidents at our venues involving staff and alcohol, we have had to decide to no longer offer this benefit. We understand that this benefit has been part of the fabric of our business and a considerable part of our culture.

“However, our commitment to you is more significant than just offering benefits. As a business, we also need to prioritise and promote a culture of safety and wellbeing.”

At least two sexual assault allegations at the venues have been reported to NSW Police.

Originally published as ‘We need to change’: Swillhouse founder responds to explosive allegations