RCH Newsletter: February 2024

Welcome to our latest newsletter, where we shine a spotlight on the outstanding achievements and remarkable initiatives happening across the Red Carnation Hotel Collection. From award-winning excellence to impactful community endeavours, our teams continue to embody the spirit of hospitality and service excellence.

In this edition, we are thrilled to share the stories of our dedicated teams who have been recognised for their exceptional contributions, innovative sustainability efforts, and heartwarming acts of kindness. From winning prestigious awards to spearheading sustainability initiatives and making a positive impact in our local communities, our teams are truly making a difference.

News from Africa

 

The Twelve Apostles

Tea Party

The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa recently hosted a delightful tea party to kick off 2024 and were joined by two special guests, Vicki Tollman and Jonathan Raggett. Vicki Tollman's inspiring words of encouragement and passion resonated deeply with the team, as she expressed gratitude for their exceptional performance and commitment. Jonathan Raggett added to the festivities by hosting a lively general knowledge quiz covering the Top 12 Standards. It was a fantastic start to the year, filled with enthusiastic participation.

Specific Skills training sessions

To kick off the year, Jeanne Pieters, the Learning & Development Manager at The Twelve Apostles, along with the management team, kicked off the SST (Specific Skills Training) program with great enthusiasm. They organised daily training sessions throughout a week aimed at enhancing various skills essential for the team's growth. These sessions focused on improving customer service skills, deepening product knowledge, and fostering professional relationships.

In February, the team emphasised the importance of knowledge sharing. Executive Sous Chef Nicholas led a session where he demonstrated diverse cooking techniques, highlighting the proper methods for preparing and filleting fish. Additionally, there were training opportunities to enhance beverage knowledge, including insights into Bouchard Finlayson wine and a partnership with Cape Saint Blaze to expand their understanding of gin. This initiative not only brought the team together but also served as an excellent platform for continuous learning and development.

 

The Oyster Box

Rotary Discard Donation

The Oyster Box has been actively involved in the Rotary Discard Donation program, demonstrating their commitment to community support. Over the span of 2022-2023, the hotel generously contributed a total of 42 donations, comprising linens, slippers, books, and stationery. The team takes great pride in their contributions and is delighted to make a positive impact on their community. Kudos to the team at the Oyster Box for their commendable efforts!

Blood Bank Donation

Recently, the team at The Oyster Box Hotel made a significant contribution to the Durban North Blood Bank. It's worth noting that every blood donation has the potential to save up to three lives—a fact that resonates deeply with the passionate team at The Oyster Box. Their commitment to supporting this life-saving initiative is unwavering, and they pledge to continue their support whenever possible. What an incredible endeavour by the team!

Manager of the Quarter Q3 2023

Lee Gounder, Assistant F&B Manager

Lee is widely respected across the F&B operation for his positive demeanour and compassionate approach. His infectious positivity and caring attitude have earned him admiration from every department. Lee plays a pivotal role in F&B training, diligently identifying skill gaps, fostering career progression, and inspiring excellence within the team. Always ready to lend a helping hand, he ensures that guests receive the highest level of service. Lee's invaluable contributions have greatly benefited the F&B team, and the entire Red Carnation family extends heartfelt gratitude to him for his unwavering dedication and commitment.

Employee of the Month January 2024

Lucas Ngidi, Front Office Porter

Lucas consistently exceeds expectations by ensuring that each guest receives a warm and memorable experience. His friendly demeanour and attentive service set a positive tone for everyone entering the hotel. Lucas's collaborative approach and efficiency have significantly contributed to the seamless operation of the Front Office department. He fosters excellent teamwork with his colleagues, ensuring that guests' needs are met promptly and efficiently. Lucas's unwavering dedication ensures that the Front Office consistently delivers reliable service to every guest. Once again, congratulations to Lucas on this well-deserved recognition!

10 Years Service January 2024

Lizle Duncker, Assistant HSK Manager 

Congratulations to Lizle Duncker, Assistant Housekeeping Manager, for reaching the remarkable milestone of 10 years of service at the Oyster Box! Lizle has been an invaluable support to the Housekeeping team throughout her tenure. Her meticulous attention to detail ensures that every aspect of room preparation is executed flawlessly, exceeding guest expectations. Lizle's collaborative spirit and exceptional work ethic have earned her the respect of her colleagues, and she is admired for her dedication to upholding the highest standards. As an ambassador for the Red Carnation Hotels, Lizle exemplifies excellence in hospitality. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Lizle for this incredible achievement!

The Oyster Box Monthly Spotlight

January

Allow us to introduce Kevin Pillay, an integral part of The Oyster Box's warm hospitality for the past four and a half years! Serving as a cherished Doorman, Kevin's passion for hospitality radiates in every interaction. His dedication extends beyond the typical duties as he takes delight in attending to the needs of Skabenga, our beloved furry VIP cat resident, while warmly welcoming guests to our iconic hotel. Kevin's commitment to providing exceptional service knows no bounds. He consistently goes the extra mile to ensure that each guest feels truly special from the moment they arrive. With his warm smile and genuine care, Kevin leaves a lasting impression on everyone he meets. We extend our sincere gratitude to Kevin for his unwavering dedication to creating unforgettable experiences for all guests, embodying the spirit of kindness in every gesture. Thank you, Kevin!

February

The Oyster Box is delighted to highlight Nkanyiso Zikhali, their esteemed Wine Steward, in this month's Staff Spotlight. Since joining The Oyster Box in February 2023, Nkanyiso has brought unmatched expertise and passion to his role. His recent accomplishments at the Inter Hotel Challenge in November 2023, where he earned the prestigious titles of Best Wine Steward of the Year and Best Cocktail of the Competition 2023, speak volumes about his exceptional skills and unwavering dedication. Nkanyiso's genuine love for his craft shines through in his daily interactions with guests, where he takes immense pride in recommending the perfect wines to enhance their dining experiences. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Nkanyiso for his invaluable contributions to our team and for continuously raising the standard of excellence. Here's to many more successes ahead, Nkanyiso!

 

Xigera

Team Appreciation Party in the Bush

The Xigera team was treated to a memorable celebration in the bush on December 18th, 2023. The day was brimming with activities, with a highlight being an exhilarating raffle where team members had the chance to win prizes. The management team went above and beyond, treating everyone to a delightful dinner and drinks, culminating in an award ceremony to recognize outstanding contributions. It was a fantastic day filled with camaraderie and enjoyment for all members of the Xigera team.

 

Bushmans Kloof

Tea Party

The Bushmans Kloof team recently gathered for their tea party, with special guest Jonathan Raggett. Amidst delightful games and camaraderie, the highlight of the event was the presentation of certificates to the Employee and Manager of the Year by Jonathan Raggett himself. It was a joyous occasion filled with celebration and appreciation.

A New Member of the Family

The Bushmans Kloof team extends a warm welcome to their newest member, Horticulturalist Bruce Wessels, as he joins the Red Carnation Family. With over a decade of experience in horticulture, Bruce brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to his role. His expertise spans medicinal and edible plants, as well as indigenous flora, reflecting his deep commitment to the natural world. Bruce is thrilled and proud to be part of the team, and his enthusiasm is contagious. Welcome aboard, Bruce!

Saving the Clanwilliam Cedar Trees

The General Managers at Bushmans Kloof, Gerhard and Michelle Thom, are spearheading a fundraising effort to support the preservation of Clanwilliam Cedar trees. With only 10,000 adult trees remaining, their goal is to plant an additional 2000 saplings. To achieve this, they are embarking on a 4-day hike covering a total distance of 70km, starting from Bushmans Kloof. The team at Bushmans Kloof cultivates Clanwilliam Cedar saplings in their Walled Garden, which are then planted in collaboration with Sustainable Cedar, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the Clanwilliam Cedar tree and creating employment opportunities for local communities in the Cederberg Mountains. This initiative not only contributes to saving a threatened species but also fosters economic empowerment and environmental conservation. It's a commendable effort towards a sustainable future.

 

2023 Employee and Manager of the Year Award Winners

 

The Oyster Box

Employee of the Year 2023: Rashid Ismail

Congratulations to Rashid Ismail, named Employee of the Year 2023 for his unwavering commitment to guest satisfaction. Rashid's dedication shines through in his meticulous approach to his workspace, the Palm Court, where he is renowned for his impeccable high tea service. Both team members and guests alike recognize Rashid's outstanding service, with some guests specifically seeking him out during their visits. His attention to detail and receptiveness to feedback exemplify the qualities of an RCH ambassador. Well done, Rashid!

Manager of the Year 2023: Michelle Kocke

Congratulations to Michelle Kocke, awarded Manager of the Year 2023 for her exceptional leadership within the Housekeeping department at the Oyster Box. Michelle is revered and admired by her team for her exemplary leadership qualities. In addition to overseeing a large team and multiple F&B outlets, Michelle's dedication to hard work and maintaining high standards is evident. She consistently goes above and beyond, actively engaging with her team to ensure excellence across all areas. Michelle epitomizes the values of an RCH leader, setting a standard of excellence for others to follow. Well-deserved recognition, Michelle!

 

Xigera

Employee of the Year 2023: Gakegane (Dolly) Maitapiso

Dolly has demonstrated remarkable personal growth over the past year, particularly in her pastry production, where she consistently delivers excellence in both consistency and quality. Her dedication and eagerness to learn have been instrumental in her success, as she actively seeks out opportunities for skill development and training. Not only does Dolly excel in her pastry work, but she also delights guests with her famous Dolly’s chilli, a favourite among visitors who often request the recipe or a batch to take home. Dolly's unwavering commitment to ensuring guest satisfaction through her culinary creations is truly commendable. The Red Carnation Family is immensely proud of Dolly's accomplishments!

Manager of the Year 2023: Oratile (Des) Gotshajwang

Des's promotion to Assistant Head Guide in October 2022 stands as a testament to his unwavering dedication and exemplary leadership within the guiding department. His consistent hard work and willingness to go above and beyond, particularly during busy seasons, have been instrumental in his success. Des's flexibility and commitment to the team's success have greatly contributed to the implementation of structure and training initiatives under Ike, our Head Guide. Renowned for his extensive knowledge and charismatic guiding style, Des is among the most requested guides, alongside Ike. Congratulations to Des from the entire Red Carnation Family on this well-deserved achievement!

 

Bushmans Kloof

Employee of the Year 2023: Michael (Koko) Dlabantu

Koko is a valued member of the gardening team at Bushmans Kloof. Koko has been awarded Employee of the Year 2023 for his unwavering commitment to assisting other departments and his proactive approach within his own. Koko consistently delivers exceptional service to both guests and colleagues alike. Even during busy periods, he maintains a positive attitude and wears a smile, reflecting his dedication and professionalism. Congratulations to Koko for this well-deserved recognition!

Manager of the Year 2023: Beatrice Klaase

Beatrice Klaase, the Restaurant Manager at Bushmans Kloof, has been named Manager of the Year 2023 for her exemplary dedication to the mantra 'No request is too large, no detail too small.' She instills this standard within her team, ensuring that every guest leaves the restaurant satisfied and content. Beatrice goes above and beyond to create a welcoming atmosphere, making every guest feel at home. Congratulations to Beatrice for her outstanding performance and leadership!

 

The Twelve Apostles

Employee of Year 2023: Aphiwe Ndokweni

Aphiwe Ndokweni's journey from being nominated for Employee of the Quarter to ultimately being selected as the Employee of the Year is truly commendable. His unwavering dedication, hard work, and relentless commitment to delivering exceptional customer service have undoubtedly left a lasting impression. Congratulations, Aphiwe, on this remarkable achievement! We are incredibly proud of you!

Manager of Year 2023: Malcolm Kannemeyer

Recognised for his role as the F&B Duty Manager, Malcolm Kannemeyer exemplifies dedication, decisive leadership, resilience, and a collaborative approach. His outstanding contributions have rightfully earned him the prestigious title of Manager of the Year. Congratulations, Malcolm, on this well-deserved accolade!

A heartfelt congratulations to all the recipients of the Employee of the Year and Manager of the Year Awards for 2023. Your exceptional dedication and outstanding contributions have truly set you apart as stars in our team. Well done on these well-deserved achievements! 

 

Sustainability

 

Hotel d’Angleterre

Partnering with the Théodora Foundation

Hotel d'Angleterre has collaborated with the Théodora Foundation, contributing to their 'Smile Box' initiative. Established in 1993, the Théodora Foundation aims to bring laughter and joy to hospitalized children or those with disabilities. During December and January, both guests and employees had the opportunity to contribute messages or drawings to these Smile Boxes, bringing moments of happiness to children in hospitals. A heartwarming initiative indeed! Well done, Team Hotel d’Angleterre!

 

The Old Government House

Community Clothing Donation

The Sustainability Team at Old Government House organized a clothing collection initiative, which received an excellent response from the team. They managed to gather seven bags of clothing items, which were donated to the local charity, Health Connections. This initiative not only supports the local community but also promotes sustainable practices within the hotel. A big thank you to the sustainability team for their successful efforts!

A Donation for our Four-Legged Friends

Over the past few months, the Old Government House team has been regularly donating shredded paper waste to the Guernsey Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (GSPCA). This thoughtful gesture provides bedding for the animals in their shelter, demonstrating a creative and resourceful approach to sustainability. Kudos to the team for their compassion and ingenuity!

 

The Montague on the Gardens

Homemade Preserves Initiative

In an ongoing effort to reduce food waste and promote sustainability, the Montague team has embarked on a project to create homemade marmalades, jams, and chutneys using leftover fruit rinds. These delicious creations not only minimize waste but also offer guests a unique and eco-friendly culinary experience. Additionally, some of the preserves were generously donated to local shelters and churches, furthering their positive impact on the community. A wonderful initiative that benefits both guests and locals alike!

 

Awards and Achievements

 

Top Employers Award: Recognition for Excellence

The Red Carnation Hotel Collection was recently honoured with the Top Employers Institute award, a testament to the hard work and dedication of the People & Culture Team. This prestigious accolade reflects the commitment of the entire leadership team to maintaining a supportive and engaging work environment. Proud to be recognized as an Employer of Choice, the team looks forward to continuing their pursuit of excellence in the years ahead.

 

The Egerton House Hotel

Forbes Five-Star

The Egerton House celebrates another year of success, retaining its five-star rating by the Forbes Travel Guide. This achievement reflects the dedication and professionalism of the entire team, who consistently strive to deliver exceptional experiences for their guests. Congratulations to The Egerton team for their ongoing commitment to excellence!

 

Hotel 41

Forbes Five-Star

Hotel 41 recently celebrated its eighth consecutive year of retaining the prestigious Forbes 5-Star award. This remarkable achievement was commemorated with a special event, acknowledging the collective effort of the team in maintaining this esteemed status. It was a joyous occasion for all, highlighting their unwavering dedication to delivering unparalleled hospitality. Congratulations to Hotel 41 for this outstanding accomplishment!

 

Summer Lodge and The Acorn Inn

Award-Winning Excellence in Dorset

Summer Lodge and Acorn Inn are delighted to announce their recent triumphs at the 2024 Dorset Tourism Awards. Summer Lodge clinched the prestigious title of 'Best Small Hotel,' while the Acorn Inn was honored as the esteemed 'Pub of the Year.' These accolades are a testament to the exceptional dedication and teamwork displayed by both establishments.

For The Acorn Inn team, winning the Gold award marks a significant milestone, propelling them as finalists in the Pub of the Year category at the Southwest Tourism Awards, with the results eagerly anticipated in March. Let's keep our fingers crossed for continued success!

Additionally, The Acorn team received two rosettes in January, a commendable recognition that underscores their commitment to delivering excellent food and service. This achievement is a source of immense pride for the entire team, reflecting their unwavering dedication to excellence. Congratulations to both teams on their remarkable accomplishments!

 

Good News

 

The Acorn Inn

Winter Events Success

The Acorn Inn team enjoyed a successful winter season, hosting a variety of events such as pub quizzes, themed nights, and live music performances. These events were well-received by the local community, contributing to a vibrant atmosphere and fostering strong connections with patrons. A testament to the team's creativity and hospitality!

 

Summer Lodge

Celebrating Love

Congratulations to Sinead Laffey, Front Office Manager at Summer Lodge, on her recent engagement! Sinead, who began her journey with RCH as a Management Programme participant, found love while working at Summer Lodge, highlighting the hotel's role in fostering meaningful connections. Wishing Sinead and her fiancé Arturas a lifetime of happiness together!

 

The Egerton House Hotel

Team Spotlight

The Egerton House shines a spotlight on its Kitchen team, led by David, whose creativity and leadership have elevated the culinary experience for guests and staff alike. Their innovative approach has garnered praise and strengthened the hotel's reputation for excellence. Congratulations to the Egerton Kitchen Team for their outstanding contributions!

Egerton House Refurbishment

The Egerton House is undergoing renovation work to enhance the guest experience while preserving its historic charm. These thoughtful renovations aim to rejuvenate the property, ensuring it remains a welcoming haven for guests for years to come. Exciting changes are on the horizon, and the team eagerly anticipates unveiling the refreshed space to their valued guests.

 

Hotel d’Angleterre

Celebrating Longevity

Hotel d’Angleterre commemorates Hassan's 25 years of service as their esteemed porter. Hassan's dedication and loyalty have made him a beloved figure within the hotel, enriching the guest experience with his warmth and hospitality. Here's to many more years of exemplary service!

 

The Milestone Hotel & Residences

Regional Housekeeping Meeting

The Milestone Hotel recently hosted a Regional Housekeeping Meeting, bringing together dedicated team members to discuss industry best practices and share insights. Special guest Molly, Andrew Pike's dog, added a delightful touch to the gathering, highlighting the hotel's inclusive and welcoming culture.

Strategy Day 2024

The Milestone Hotel convened its senior team members for the 2024 Strategy Day at The Royal Albert Hall, facilitating productive discussions and planning for the year ahead. The day was filled with insightful deliberations and culminated in a captivating performance by Cirque du Soleil, fostering team camaraderie and inspiration. A successful day indeed!

 

The Montague on the Gardens

Nationality Day: Celebrating Diversity

The Montague celebrates its diverse team by hosting "Nationality Days," where employees come together to prepare and share culinary delights from different cultures. This initiative promotes cultural exchange and strengthens bonds among team members, fostering a welcoming and inclusive work environment.

 

The Old Government House

Staff Tea Party

To kick off the new year, Old Government House hosted a lively Tea Party with a twist—a Gym Takeover! The team participated in energizing workouts led by fitness instructors, showcasing their commitment to health and wellness. It was a fun-filled event that set a positive tone for the year ahead. Well done, team!

 

The Rubens at the Palace

Celebrating Excellence

Pascal, the fabulous doorman at The Rubens, received widespread recognition for his exceptional service, earning numerous mentions across various platforms. His warm welcome and dedicated service have left a lasting impression on guests, earning him well-deserved accolades and recognition. Congratulations, Pascal, on this remarkable achievement!