Mullingar man scoops award Down Under

A Mullingar native who manages an entertainment venue in Western Australia has been recognised for high standards of service in the hospitality industry.Derrick Buckley, from Hillside Drive, Mullingar, was chosen from among 300 entries over 45 categories in the presitigious Lion Nathan Gala Ball and 2008 AHA Aon Hotel Awards for Excellence.The awards took place at the Burswood Entertainment Complex in Western Australia recently, and Derrick"s award comes at a time when standards across the industry in Australia have never been so high.Derrick, a son of Marina and Matt Buckley, Mullingar, won the Excellence in Service Employee of the Year (Western Australia) Award, and received his gong from Mr. Rory Cole-Bowen, Chief Executive of hospitalitybiz, who were the sponsors of the category. hospitalitybiz is Western Australia"s leading executive search and recruitment firm, specialising in the placement of top performing people in the hospitality industry.Before leaving Mullingar, Derrick completed his barman"s apprenticeship under the tutelage of Anthony Hughes, owner of the former Corner House Bar on Pearse Street, Mullingar. He has lived in Perth for the past eight years, and since February 2006 he has been part of the management team at 'The Shed', one of Perth"s most stylish multi-purpose venues.At The Shed, Derrick manages a staff roster of 55 people, and it was his positive 'can do' attitude which has served him well while pursuing his career in the hospitality industry.The venue is one of Perth"s most popular meeting places which plays a huge role in the city"s busy social scene, boasting top Australian cuisine in its restaurant, and world-class clubbing and nightlife in its function rooms.One thing which makes Derrick"s job even more exciting than it already is, is when he gets to meet another school friend or neighbour from Mullingar, passing through Perth while travelling on their 'year out'.