Cuddly concierge to hang up his lead

A stay at Peppers Silos Hotel in Launceston, Tasmania, is not complete without a cuddle with canine concierge Archie. 

But after greeting an estimated 300,000 guests, posing for countless photos and becoming one of Tasmania's most recognisable tourism ambassadors, Archie, the beloved black Labrador concierge is preparing to hang up his lead.

Archie has begun easing back his duties before officially retiring later this spring, bringing to a close an eight-year career.

Archie's story began before the doors of Peppers Silo Hotel even opened. 

Following a family visit to Canada, hotel owner Errol Stewart was inspired after meeting a canine concierge working in a hotel. 

Wanting to create the same warm and memorable arrival experience in Launceston, he approached Guide Dogs Tasmania to find an appropriate hound from the guide dog training program that possessed the exceptional temperament and training that make these dogs so special.

At four years old, Archie joined the opening team of Peppers Silo Hotel in 2018. His calm nature, impeccable manners and genuine love of people made him the perfect fit for a life in hospitality.

Kim Ryan, business manager at Guide Dogs Tasmania has been alongside his journey since he was eight weeks old and said Archie is a wonderful reminder that every dog has their own unique purpose. 

“Not every dog is suited to guide work, but every dog has unique strengths," Ryan said. "Archie has clearly found his calling, and we're incredibly proud to see the happiness he's brought to so many people over the past eight years. We wish him a long, happy and well-earned retirement.” 

Thousands follow his adventures online (@archiethesilodog) and guests regularly arrive bearing squeaky toys just for him. 

Peppers Silo Hotel general manager Paul Seaman said Archie had become far more than the hotel's canine concierge. 

“Archie has never simply been the hotel dog - he's been a colleague, a greeter, a conversation starter and, for many guests, the highlight of their stay. People genuinely ask if Archie is working before they book. He's become part of the story of Peppers Silo Hotel and part of Tasmania's tourism story."

His successor will be announced later this year, ensuring the much-loved tradition he began continues for years to come.

Launceston hotel rewarded for sustainability efforts

Tasmania heavily promotes its clean, green image, even if there are a lot of old growth trees being chopped down out of the view of most tourists, and the local farmed salmon industry is problematic.

That said, there are lot of tourism operators doing their best to be sustainable and protect the environment.

Peppers Silo Hotel Launceston has met globally recognised sustainable tourism standards to become the first hotel in Tasmania to achieve Ecotourism Australia's Sustainable Tourism Certification.

The Accor hotel has been recognised for its sustainability measures across accommodationl, Grain of the Silos restaurant, and its meetings and events offering.

The independent validation confirms Peppers Silo Hotel Launceston has met international best practice sustainable tourism standards across eight criteria sections, including environmental management, interpretation and education, working with local communities, and cultural respect and sensitivity.

"The hotel team has worked diligently to improve their sustainability initiatives across the entire property," said Peppers Silo Hotel Launceston GM Paul Seaman.

Tthey were proud to announce their certification achievement and acknowledge the support of the hotel's owner in supporting key initiatives, such as solar panels and local procurement."

Grain of the Silo food director Massimo Mele said being fiercely local and creating connections with producers was a critical part of the restaurant's offering and identity from day one.

“Our processes and connections with local farmers and growers takes courage and planning to match the expectations of diners and travellers with the seasons and sustainable farming,” he said.

To learn more about Peppers Silo Hotel Launceston on the Green Travel Guide see https://greentravelguide.org/listing/peppers-silo