Colin Toomey


Past President of Les Clefs d'Or Australia

Chief Concierge
Shangri-La Hotel Sydney
176 Cumberland St
Sydney NSW 2000
PH: +61 2 9250 6018
FAX:+61 2 9250 6250
Shangri-La Hotel Sydney

When I commenced in the early 80's, the tourism and hospitality sector provided an exciting new career opportunity for people in the service industry (I had come from retail banking). To this day it still holds the same appeal for me.

I have spent the last 23 year in four different Hotels including The Sheraton, Inter-Continental and Nikko Hotel. The last 12 years have been at The Shangri-La Hotel, Sydney.

My personal philosophy is to never say no. Even if I can't produce the impossible I can always arrange an alternative to satisfy the request. "Expect the Unexpected" also rings true in the concierge role.

One on my most memorable requests came from a Saudi Prince who asked that I arrange a complete news crew (cameraman, sound technician etc) to cover an official engagement he was attending. Not such a difficult request in it's own right, but the lead in time given - 17 minutes did present something of a challenge.


The Westin Sydney is seeking enthusiastic and hardworking Porters to join their Concierge team on a part time basis.

The Four Seasons Sydney are seeking two experienced Full Time Concierge Clerk as well as one Casual Concierge Clerk to join their professional team on the concierge desk.

Sofitel Melbourne On Collins seeks an assistant concierge with extensive hospitality experience, an enthusiastic approach and expressive flair to be an integral team member dedicated to creating a unique luxury experience for each and every guest.

This years award will be presented by the Victorian Minister for Tourism, The Hon. Tim Holding.