Hard work, strong vision recognised

ROBERT

Dutton is this year’s recipient of the Hospitality Minister’s Award for Contribution to the Industry, recognition for his more than 30 years of work in Tasmania’s hospitality industry.

In 1984, Robert bought the Mayfield 4 Square Shop and sold it in 1987, when he purchased the Royal Hotel.

Along with Terry Morris, Robert built and developed the Royal Hotel, before selling the business and keeping freehold for a further three years until 1997.

Robert then went on to buy Mario’s Wholesale, where he joined forces with Craig O’Brien in 1999.

The two built the business from three staff to 65 by the time they sold it to PFD, and Robert left the business in 2007.

In 2010, Robert bought Tasmanian Hotel and Catering Supplies, where he has teamed up with Craig O’Brien and Leanne Blackwell.

Together they have expanded the business from 16 staff to 58 as of today.

In his heyday, Robert Dutton was a very good footballer, and the game has played a major part in his life.

Being involved with Tasmanian clubs Launceston and Clarence, as well as Victorian clubs Carlton and Hawthorn, helped Robert build skills that would help him throughout his life.

Robert’s whole ethos has been to build relationships and hard work with a strong vision of investing in the business and the people involved in the enterprise.