In sorrowful news for the hotel industry – particularly in South Australia – Ward Matthews, co-director of Matthews Hospitality, died suddenly earlier this month.
Matthews was one of three siblings heading up one of South Australia’s largest pub groups, which includes such lauded venues as Feathers Hotel, Maylands Hotel and Mount Gambier Hotel. Ward was part of the third generation of the Matthews family to run the hotel business, founded by his grandparents Seymour and Doris Matthews.
In a statement, Matthews Hospitality wrote: “We are shocked and devastated at the sudden passing of our brother and Director Ward Matthews.
“We feel a great sense of loss as we come to terms with his death and ask for privacy during this difficult time.”
No further details on the cause of death have been released.
Ian Horne, CEO of AHA|SA, expressed his condolences for the Matthews family, and noted Ward’s imprint on the South Australian hotel landscape.
“Ward was a much valued member of the South Australian hotel community and an integral part of the highly successful Mathews Hospitality Group, a multi-generational South Australian family company.
“His participation in and contribution to the hotel industry will be greatly missed. Our condolences go to the extended Mathews family.”
Australian Hotelier and Food and Beverage Media would also like to extend their condolences to the Matthews family, as well as to the staff of Matthews Hospitality.