Consummate host Sean Byrne has been announced as the new General Manager of Tower Lodge and Peppers Convent in the Hunter Valley. Byrne joins recently appointed Executive Chef George Francisco and together, they are set to cement the Relais & Chateaux property’s reputation as one of the finest luxury lodges in the world and a must visit destination in Australia.

Byrne has worked in restaurants and hotels in Australia for the past 17 years. His commitment to enjoyment, service and attention to detail has proved a recipe for success. At the completion of an extensive renovation at Jonah’s, Whale Beach in early 2004 Byrne was approached by the owners to take over the running of the business.

During his tenure ship as General Manager, Jonah’s was awarded Best Boutique Hotel in Australia (Luxury Travel Awards 2010). He was instrumental in Jonah’s securing a place in the hotly contested French accommodation group, Relais & Chateaux, the most exclusive boutique hotel association in the world.

Byrne and Francisco proved themselves to be a formidable team whilst working together at Jonah’s for four years. Together they secured Jonah’s a much prized ‘chefs hat in the 2008, 2009 and 2010 Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide. Now the duo look forward to working closely with CEO Matt Cowley to take Tower Estate to new heights. Sean Byrne says;

“I am thrilled to be working alongside Matt Cowley at Tower Estate. I have been a regular guest at Tower Lodge and the Convent over the past five years and am delighted to be taking the helm. The property is in a class of its own in the Australian market and with George’s food and some other projects in the pipeline the property is set for an exciting year ahead.”

Tower Estate is one of Australia’s most exclusive luxury lodges and premier vineyards. Tower Lodge is ranked one of finest in the world highlighted by its membership with the Relais & Chateux Association which it joined in 2010. Tower Lodge won ‘Global Luxury Lodge’ of the year at the World Luxury Hotels Awards in 2010. CEO Matt Cowley says;

“As a passionate advocate of small boutique properties, Byrne was a natural choice as the new General Manager of Tower Lodge. Byrne’s ability to welcome guests like they are friends to his home while delivering an unsurpassable hospitality experience is second to none.”

Tower Estate
Halls Road, Pokolbin, Hunter Valley, NSW 2320
www.towerestate.com.au

Tower Estate p.02 4998 7989 e. [email protected]
Tower Loge p. 02 4998 7022 e. [email protected]
Roberts p. 02 4998 7330 e. [email protected]

Background:
Winner 2011 “Best Luxury Lodge in Australia” World Luxury Hotel Awards
Winner 2011 “Best Restaurant in a Winery” National Savour Restaurant & Catering Awards
Winner 2011 “Restaurant of the Year” Hunter Savour Restaurant & Catering Awards
Winner 2011 “Best Restaurant in a Winery” Hunter Savour Restaurant & Catering Awards
Winner 2010 “Luxury Lodge” World Luxury Hotel Awards
Winner 2010 “Best New Restaurant” National Savour Restaurant & Catering Awards
Winner 2007, 2008 & 2009 “Luxury Accommodation” Hunter Regional Tourism Awards
Winner 2008 “Luxury Accommodation” NSW Tourism Awards
Listing 2005 – 2012 James Halliday 5 Star Winery
Tower Estate