After more than three decades of service, John Macaulay is preparing to farewell University House, marking the end of a remarkable chapter as General Manager. From navigating profound change across the university and hospitality sectors to building a resilient team and a thriving club culture, his tenure has been defined by leadership, adaptability and a deep commitment to community. As he steps into retirement, we sat down with John Macaulay to reflect on the achievements, challenges and moments that have shaped his time at University House—and his long-standing connection with CCV.
1. Looking back on your time at University House, what are you most proud of achieving as General Manager?
One of the things I am most proud of is the quality of our team, many of whom have remained since the challenges from the pandemic, and more recently issues with global, regional and university issues making trading challenging. But the team keeps keeping on – they really are the best!
We also have grown a busy calendar of member events and groups, including 4 book clubs, choir, poetry group, garden and campus walks, gallery visits, Line Dancing, Karaoke, Jazz Fridays, and too many in-house wine and food events to mention. A wise CCV leader once told me that successful clubs have busy social calendars and I have tried to take that to heart. Our International Women’s Day breakfast has become one of our most important events, not just for the Club but for the University as well.
2. What first drew you to University House, and how has the organisation changed since you started?
University House was once one of my best customers during my wine wholesaling days. In 1993, they advertised for a Bar Manager position, and I decided to apply, despite having never poured a beer in my life. We certainly sold a lot of wine in those days.
Since then, so much has changed at University House, reflecting shifts in the University’s on-campus culture, as well as increased hospitality competition around the precinct.
These days, daytime wine or beer service is rare, with most bar activity now centred around Thursday and Friday evenings.
In response to these changing dynamics, we introduced a PhD category of membership several years ago. This has helped balance our age and gender demographics while also bringing a more youthful energy and perspective to the House.
3. What have been some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced during your tenure, and how did you navigate them?
Well, obviously, the pandemic caused huge disruption to all our businesses. We are still adjusting to the after-effects, such as working from home and reduced staff numbers on campus, which still affect business.
As a result, we have worked hard to provide as broad a range of events for members and guests as we can. We have tweaked our trading hours and menus to reflect patron availability and preferences. And I’ve done a lot of cost analysis!
4. Can you share some of your favourite CCV events?
University House has had some wonderful highlights from CCV Galas and Awards Night. The highlights have been: the 2017 CCV President’s Award for Service for our late Venue Supervisor, Anthony Meehan, 2022 Club Employee of the Year, Ngoan Pham, and 2022-23 Best Club Bistro Restaurant.
And all great opportunities for some silly outfits!
I have also enjoyed the golf days when able to attend, and a winery visit or two!
5. What value do you think CCV brings to clubs like University House and the wider community club sector?
CCV has provided both University House and me with valuable networking opportunities with other venues, as well as access to the wisdom and expertise of fellow managers. This support has been an important part of my journey as a Club Manager.
6. What has kept you engaged as a long-term CCV member?
CCV is our industry group, and it has been important for both University House and me to take our place within it, contribute where possible, and actively engage in learning from and collaborating with others across the sector.
7. What does retirement look like?
Lunch, naps, golf. I’m pretty good at two out of three!
A bit of a family trip planned later in the year.
