By Thirzah White

Rupert Sakora, QT’s new General Manager is no stranger to the hotel business, bringing 20 years of international experience in food and beverage to Port Douglas.

“Its about the people, the ones you work with, the ones you connect with and the community you involve yourself with”

Newsport caught up with the happily busy new local for a quick Q&A to learn a bit more…

How are you settling in?

Great! There’s lots to do with a fresh set of eyes, but I have a great team in place to work alongside. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting some wonderful locals who have made me feel very welcome and though  I miss my family (who are still on the Gold Coast, they arrive next week) it’s been great to have that space to get my head around the new operation.

What attracted you to work in the area?

Port Douglas is beautiful. I holidayed here with my family 2 years ago and loved it so much we came back again this January. I’m all about the local vibe, the adventures to be had in the area and there’s an awesome food & beverage scene. Last but not least it’s QT Port Douglas. I feel relaxed as soon as I arrive to ‘work’.

What are you excited about in your new role at the QT?

Ultimately being responsible for the property and all that entails. I love the fact that I will be putting my individual stamp on the hotel culture, service and product in the hotel. I’m excited about getting to know this area’s market and how QT Port Douglas fits in; but mostly I’m pumped about getting involved in the local community.

What can we expect?

“A lot of fun, a greater community involvement, developing strong relationships within the town, and improving on existing successes based on my experience at QT Gold Coast. All to the soundtrack of some great tunes and awesome tropical cocktails.”

What experience do you bring with you?

“20-odd years of food and beverage involvement and a management style grown out of  many years working around the world. I’ve seen a lot go down in my time in boutique hotels and restaurants so there isn’t much that rattles me. I’ve managed some big places and some little places, but the heart is always the same – it’s about the people... the ones you work with, the ones you connect with and the community you involve yourself with.”

What’s your favourite cocktail to enjoy at the Estilo Bar QT?

“It has absolutely got to be a classic Margarita made by our expert bar tenders. Classic, shaken on rocks, salt rim. Perfect. But our signature margarita, Estilos’ ‘Day of The Dead’ is the ‘twist not to be missed’ – chilli infused tequila, avocado lime, mango and agave – It’s all about tropicaaale.”

As a previous employee of Merivale, who also own the infamous Slip Inn Sydney, can we expect a local girl to meet her prince in the QT bar just like Princess Mary?

“I’ve been here 6 weeks and already I’ve seen love blooming in Estilo, with romantic liaisons between strangers in house and honeymooners lost in each other’s company. Without a doubt, here at QT Port Douglas, we’re all about making dreams come true... but you’ve gotta be in it to win it! I feel an exciting summer season at QT Port Douglas coming on.”

Will you be wearing board shorts to work now?

“I’m currently planning my wet season ensemble and shorts are on the radar.”