a look Inside the 2026 no vacancy Small Hotelier Workshop
What happens when 30 independent hoteliers step away from the day-to-day and spend two nights talking honestly about the future of hospitality?
That was the premise behind the Small Hotelier Workshop, held at Hillcrest Motel in Merimbula from 12–14 August 2026. Organised by No Vacancy in collaboration with Caspar Tresidder, owner of Hillcrest, the by-application-only gathering brought together independent and boutique accommodation operators for two nights that swapped the usual conference format — panels, lanyards, keynotes — for practical workshops, open conversations and genuine connection.
What was the Small Hotelier Workshop?
A two-night, by-application-only gathering of independent and boutique accommodation operators, held at Hillcrest Motel in Merimbula from 12–14 August 2026. Rather than a traditional conference, the format centred on hands-on workshop sessions, wellness between sessions, and shared meals designed to encourage honest, off-the-record conversation between operators who don't usually get time away from their properties together.
WHAT WAS COVERED?
The Design & Revenue session, led by Julie Ockerby of WMK Architecture, explored how considered design can do more than create a beautiful space — looking at the changes guests notice, remember and are willing to pay for. Meanwhile, Running Lean in Today's Economy, with Rob Bartlett of BAR Hospitality and Hillcrest's own Caspar Tresidder, examined how operators can simplify their businesses and protect margins without compromising the guest experience.
Technology was another key theme. Tech Stack Optimisation, run by Andrew Hewitt of Rambla, encouraged hoteliers to look closer at the systems they already have, uncovering underused features, missed automations and unnecessary costs before investing in something new.
The conversation then moved beyond the property itself. The Digital Guest Journey, led by Matty Roberts of The Cheshire Cat, mapped the experience from that first online discovery through to reviews and return visits, while Storytelling & Marketing Engine, with Nora Shkreli of The Drita, explored how independent properties can turn their individuality into compelling stories, shareable experiences and stronger guest connections.
How did wellness fit into the schedule?
Wellness was woven into the rhythm of the Small Hotelier Workshop, giving hoteliers the chance to step away from the demands of running a property and reconnect with themselves and their surroundings.
Hosted by Shiloh Phillips, the Morning Movement sessions offered guided yoga and pilates as a slower start to the day, complementing the workshop's more intensive discussions. Alongside the guided sessions, attendees could choose a beach run, a coastal walk, or simply take time to rest — with a chance of spotting whales along the Merimbula coastline during peak winter season.
What happened outside the formal sessions?
Perhaps the most valuable part of the workshop happened between sessions. Over a long-table local lunch, an optional Hotelier Happy Hour on low-season lessons, and a group dinner at Bar Superette, hoteliers shared the realities of running independent properties — including generating demand in quieter periods, protecting rates, and building relationships with local partners.
A THANK YOU TO OUR LOCAL PARTNERS
St. Ali — kept everyone properly caffeinated from the first morning to the last
Umi-Ko Izakaya — delicious Japanese Lunch
James Wheeler, Wheelers Oysters — spoiling us with a selection of the best
Good Dood — the most delicious woodfired pizza