MEET BILLY
This month we caught up with Billy to ask him a few questions about his time at Canterbury and his passion for photography as a hobby.
1. What are some of your responsibilities as the Gaming Manager?
I assist in overseeing the Gaming operation which includes a variety of responsibilities such as managing the gaming floor, coordination of the gaming machine fleet, gaming roster templates and supporting a great team who strive to deliver exceptional customer service and a memorable experience for our patrons. My role also includes planning and implementing new projects within the Gaming Department. In addition to my responsibilities I am also an active Justice of the Peace and provide JP services to our members and guests.
2. Why do you like working for Canterbury?
Last year I celebrated my 21st year working at Canterbury and can honestly say that the customers and staff all contribute to making Canterbury a great place to work which is why I have remained with the Club for many years, making lifelong friends along the way.
Over the years I have had opportunities to work in various roles throughout the Club which has enabled me to learn, grow and build a career that I’m proud of.
3. Did you always see yourself working in the Club industry? What do you think about the opportunities in the Club industry for school leavers?
I started working as a casual bartender at Lakemba Services Memorial Club (now The Lakemba Club) in December 1999 as a second job, but it didn’t take long for me to fall in love with the Club industry and decide to make hospitality my career.
I believe there are many opportunities in the Club industry for school leavers as there are a variety of job roles where they can learn and expand their skill sets which will equip them with the knowledge and experience to create a pathway to their career, within hospitality or any role.
4. You are a keen photographer in your spare time – tell us a bit more about that.
I purchased my first camera in 2011 and quickly realised how much I enjoyed capturing moments, especially family occasions. Over the past 10 years I have photographed festivals, concerts, birthdays and a few weddings. In 2020 I took up street photography (as all events were cancelled due to Covid restrictions) which enabled me to get out of the house, complete my daily exercise and capture some interesting images along the way.
I like all photography genres but mostly enjoy photographing people and creating timeless images. Andy Warhol said, “The best thing about a picture is that it never changes even when the people in it do”.
5. Aside from photography, what are your other hobbies you enjoy?
I enjoy spending time with my family, going on daycations around Sydney and also travelling overseas. My favourite overseas destination (apart from visiting family in Macedonia) is Las Vegas, however after visiting Santorini a couple of years ago it has also been included in my favourites list for being so picturesque.
