The AHA NSW has a new Senior Vice-President for the first time in more than 20 years, with Newcastle hotelier Mick Starkey elected unopposed at the Association’s AGM.

Mr Starkey will serve as deputy to long-term President Scott Leach, who was re-elected unopposed to the position he has held since 2008 – his 10th election win.

Former AHA NSW Senior Vice-President publican Lyn Humphreys has voluntarily stepped down after more than two decades in that role – she remains a member of the AHA NSW Council.

Another Council delegate – Nick Clarke of the Shortland Hotel – was elected to the executive at this week’s AGM.

Mr Leach is now one of the three longest-serving Presidents in AHA NSW history. He said he had the best team to take on the challenges affecting the industry in an uncertain international environment and with cost-of-living pressures impacting business and public alike.

“Firstly, it’s an honour to be re-elected unopposed as AHA NSW President and I thank members for their support,” he said.

“The AHA NSW executive team has exactly the right mix of experience and enthusiasm to ensure the voices of our members are heard. We will be working hard each and every day for an industry which is, quite frankly, second to none.

“I am looking forward to working more closely with Mick and welcome him to the deputy position, I would also like to pay tribute to the tireless work of Lyn Humphreys – whose loyalty and passion to the hospitality industry over decades is inspirational. I would also like to welcome Nick Clarke to the Executive team.”

Mr Starkey, who has been an AHA NSW Council delegate for over 10 years and head of the AHA NSW Newcastle-Hunter Sub-Branch for four, said he looked forward to the new role.

“It’s a real privilege to be elected to this position – big shoes to fill though – taking over from Lyn Humphreys, and I look forward to continuing to support Scott and the team in my new role. It’s great to see a fellow Novocastrian elected to the executive too – well done Nick!”

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