The pub came out trumps against some formidable opposition at the recent Australian Hotels Association awards night on The Gold Coast.

The iconic Green Hills hotel beat major national competitors to claim top honours for Outstanding Community Service and Achievement.

The honour is awarded to the hotel which best provides support and involvement in the local community, a strong theme within the hospitality industry.

George Tavern owner, Janine Redman, said the award reflects the tavern’s genuine commitment to giving back to the local community.

“This industry really provides us with a fantastic platform to help people that might be doing it tough,” she said.

“We’ve been fortunate enough to help a number of groups and members of our local community, which is something we really pride ourselves on.”

Despite receiving the prestigious accolade, Ms Redman was quick to point out that the award extends far beyond just the efforts of her and husband, Dan.

“This award recognises our incredible family and team who supports, encourages and drives our vision,” she said.

“It recognises our generous regulars and the many people in our community who continue to want to help and support individuals in their time of need, and the groups that make our wonderful community possible.”

Throughout the past few years The George Tavern has supported a number of local individuals as well as charitable organisations including the Harry Meyn Foundation, the Mark Hughes Foundation and many local schools and sporting groups.

As well as major fundraisers, the pub’s community efforts also include letting various community groups run the weekly raffle for a month at a time.

“We let local sporting teams host the raffle on Wednesday nights, and other community groups run the Friday afternoon raffle,” Ms Redman explained.

“By getting the groups more involved for a month at a time, they are able to raise more money for their specific fundraising activity.”

True to form, the Redmans apply the same caring and community-focused attitude towards their running of The George.

The pub recently became a member of the Liquor Legends Group, which Ms Redman says will help to boost the hotel’s fundraising and customer service efforts.

“As a member of the Liquor Legends Group, The George will have a fantastic retail platform from which to promote on-premise activities such as fundraisers,” she said.

“Our focus is looking after those that are closest to us, which includes offering our loyal customers an industry-leading rewards program across the entire hotel, on top of the great customer service that we are already so well-known for.”

The George Tavern will continue its community work by supporting the Mark Hughes Foundation and the battle against brain cancer throughout the month of September, before focusing on the East Maitland Rural Fire Brigade in October.