Variety adds spice to life

KAREN Burbury’s varied and influential career has been recognised with the Premier’s Award for Contribution to the Community at last night’s Tasmanian Hospitality Association gala event in Hobart last night.

Her working life has included jillarooing in northwest Queensland, and gracing catwalks for national magazines.

However, Karen’s true expertise lies in marketing.

Her first hospitality industry experience was as general manager of the Pine Tree Motel in Katherine in the Northern Territory.

Karent has also worked as a consultant for the Leisure Inn Group, and most recently as managing director of Launceston eatery Cataract on Paterson.

With a wealth of business knowledge behind her, Karen’s marketing plan for the restaurant has led to steady growth into one of the city’s most successful establishments.

“I see awards as more of a combined achievement,’’ Karen said.

“What I enjoy most about the awards Cataract on Paterson receives is the response from the team because it is recognition of their hard work, dedication and enthusiasm.’’

She is keen to see other businesses succeed in the industry, and hopes to use her know-how to help them do so.

“Eventually I will focus primarily on my marketing company and will redesign the focus to be hospitality consultancy,” Karen said.

Her latest project is Hound Dog craft beer, the first series of which is scheduled to be produced this year.