Katie McCormack Young Service Talent Award: Nicole Sharrad
A new award recognising a front-of-house professional aged 30 or under who consistently strives for excellence and shows genuine passion for hospitality.
Alta Trattoria, Fitzroy
On first glance Nicole Sharrad’s career path seems unconventional. After front-of-house roles at Africola, Attica and Hazel she was drawn to the outdoors. A horticulture certification led to work in the kitchen garden at Brae and now, as restaurant manager at Alta Trattoria, she has a more holistic understanding of produce.
Her service style is composed and personal; she studies Piedmontese literature to find cultural tidbits to share with Alta’s guests.
“Nicole is well rounded in a way that is truly refreshing,” says judge Hannah Green. “She exudes calming strength, and has taken the initiative to expand her own career.”
These attributes align with the values of this award, created in honour of the late Katie McCormack (co-founder, Congress & Lagotto).
“Katie always made sure people in her venues felt seen, loved and looked after,” says judge Bronwyn Kabboord.
In future, Sharrad hopes to see more women-owned venues, and dreams of opening a country restaurant with a kitchen garden of her own.
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