Liquor merchants Copper and Oak have been awarded the most coveted prize in the Western Australian liquor industry at this year’s annual awards night.
The company’s Guildford based store was named “Metropolitan” and the Peter Basioli, “WA Liquor Store of the Year” at the 29th WA Liquor Industry Awards, proudly presented by Lion at the Pan Pacific Hotel in Perth on Friday night.
The awards recognise and celebrate excellence in the independent packaged liquor store industry.
Voting for the best store is based on scores by sales representatives from wineries, beer suppliers and distilleries from across the state.
Copper and Oak were formed 20 years ago by Jose (JO-see) Pestana who set up shop in Tuart Hill after emigrating from South Africa and decided to call Perth home.
A few years later his brother Nelio joined him from overseas to help run the business.
In 2022 the duo established their Copper and Oak Guildford store at a historic building previously known as Chateau Guildford which has been supported by industry peers and locals. Their liquor Industry award caps off a number of accolades they have received this year from the Swan Chamber of Commerce.
Mr Pestana said the liquor award was validation of many years of demanding work put into the business and being part of the local community.
“That’s what we’re about, we’re not just about being retailers in another shop. We want to be part of something, and Guildford has shown it.
“Being a town that’s all about the heritage factor, they’ve embraced us, they come in, and they know us by name”.
Liquor Barons in Northam was named Country Liquor Store of the year after last scooping the title in 2022.
Mental health advocacy group Healthy Mind Menu and co-ordinator Paisley Maddison received the Anita Grace Community Service Award for its focus on mental health and wellbeing in the hospitality industry.
Now in its third year, the Media Award was picked up by Nine News Perth reporter Amber Wilkinson for her tv news report on the growing rate of violence against retail workers and the push to toughen up legislation and punish retail thugs.
Ms Wilkinson said it was a privilege to be able to share an important story that is close to her heart.
“I used to work in retail as a teenager and copped a lot of abuse myself, so I’ve been there and I’ve seen it and I just never think it’s right for anyone. So, to get to have the privilege to talking to people who’ve been through those hard times, getting to put a spotlight on it and the emphasis of what needs to change it was a real privilege and it hit close to home for me”.
Racing and Gaming Minister Paul Papalia said the event was a fitting testament to the significant role family-owned liquor stores play in local communities.
“Everyone in this industry works really hard and often do it really tough and regularly are working when the rest of us are celebrating or enjoying time with family and friends. I think you deserve a moment to reflect on what you’ve done what you’re doing and appreciate the service that you provide to the community” he said.
Liquor Stores Association WA CEO Peter Peck said this year’s event once again showcased the different but essential elements the industry plays in the community at large.
“It’s not just about the alcohol or the consumption of the product. This event highlights how stores interact within their local communities and how each member of the industry supports one another.”
“It’s classic small business, where everyone can have a go and foster a thriving and sustainable industry.”
“I congratulate the award winners and thank all our partners for their ongoing support” he added.
More than three hundred guests attended the event, and plans are in place for next year’s festivities which will culminate in the 30th anniversary of the popular liquor industry awards.
Liquor Stores Association of WA 2024 Lion Liquor Industry Award winners
Peter Basioli WA Liquor Store of the Year: Copper and Oak (Guildford store)
Metropolitan Liquor Store of the Year: Copper and Oak (Guildford store)
Country Liquor Store of the Year: Liquor Barons, Northam
Anita Grace Community Service Award: Healthy Mind Menu – Mental health advocacy group
Lion Liquor Industry Media Award: Amber Wilkinson – Channel Nine News, Perth
Employee of the Year: Basil Giglia – Liquor Barons Carlisle
Sales Representative of the Year – Beer: Peter Liversage – Good Drinks
Sales Representative of the Year – Wine: Neil McPherson, Off the Vine
Sales Representative of the Year – Spirits/RTDs: Dan Partington Smith – Diageo
Supplier of the Year – Beer: Lion Beverages
Supplier of the Year – Wine: Off the Vine
Supplier of the Year – Spirit/RTDs: Diageo