Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Arts Industry Experience
Timeline
Generic

Ava O'Brien

Sydney,NSW

Summary

I have 7 years of experience in client-facing roles within hospitality, customer service, and the arts. I’m a reliable and collaborative team player with strong organizational skills and a willingness to take on responsibility when needed. I am seeking roles that will challenge me and environments that promote continuous learning. I’m always looking for ways to improve and eager to apply my hospitality expertise in a role that aligns with my passion and knowledge of film and theatre.

Overview

4
4
years of professional experience

Work History

Bartender

Camelia Grove Hotel
05.2023 - Current
  • Complied with RSA regulations
  • Served high volumes during peak hours and special events
  • Crafted quality cocktails and seasonal drink menus
  • Conducted inventory counts and maintained stock levels
  • Managed opening/closing duties independently
  • Training of new staff
  • Fix equipment issues and maintain gaming area cleanliness
  • Ensured compliance with gaming laws and company policies

Front of House/Bartender

Side - B Cocktail Bar
04.2023 - 06.2023
  • Supported smooth bar operations during launch phase
  • Prepared and served cocktails, beer, and wine
  • Greeted guests, managed seating, and processed orders via POS


Waitress/Barista

Cardinal Freeman Cafe
03.2022 - 05.2023
  • Operated coffee machines and prepared beverages.
  • Supported kitchen prep by chopping, plating, and assisting staff.
  • Exhibited strong multitasking abilities, balancing multiple tables and orders while delivering prompt service.
  • Carried out complete opening, closing and shift change duties to keep restaurant working efficiently.

Bartender/Waitress

The Rose of Australia
10.2021 - 03.2022
  • Served high volumes during peak hours and special events
  • Opened/closed bar per protocol
  • Followed RSA procedures to manage guest alcohol consumption
  • Trained new staff on drink prep, upselling, and special functions
  • Adapted quickly to fast-paced event environments

Education

Bachelor of Media: Screen And Sound Production - Major in Film, Minor in Theatre Studies

University of New South Wales
Sydney, NSW
08-2025

High School Diploma -

Newtown Highschool of The Performing Arts
Newtown, NSW
11-2020

Young Actor's Studio -

NIDA
Kensington, NSW
11-2019

Skills

  • Team leadership and event coordination
  • Strong customer service and communication skills
  • Highly reliable and collaborative
  • Event support and logistics assistance
  • Front-of-house and guest services
  • Multitasking in fast-paced environments
  • Great organization and administrative skills
  • POS operation and cash handling
  • Ability to comply with RSA, RCG and WHS Safety Regulations

Arts Industry Experience

Co-Curator/Co-Director of SET! Film and Moving Image Exhibition

April 2025 - in collaboration with Inner West Film Fest

  • Co-directed from concept to delivery, shaping curatorial vision, thematic planning, and overall creative direction
  • Programmed a multi-day exhibition featuring diverse works in film, video art, and new media
  • Managed all aspects of artist engagement, including outreach, contracts, and technical requirements
  • Oversaw administration, budgeting, marketing strategy, and audience development
  • Coordinated production, logistics, and technical installation to ensure a seamless exhibition experience
  • Directed a team of volunteers and collaborators during event operations, ensuring smooth delivery across all nights


https://www.innerwestfilmfest.com.au/events/setexhibition

Instagram: setfilmfest


Production/Office Assistant - Photoplay Films

June 2025 - September 2025

  • Conducted research to support development and production planning
  • Assisted as a PA on set during shoots
  • Helped prep equipment, props, and call sheets ahead of shoot days
  • Followed up on key emails and calls with clients and crew
  • Provided general production support across multiple projects


Usher/Front of House/Pre-selection Judge - Smartphone Film Festival

November 2024

  • Managed front-of-house duties and audience coordination during screenings
  • Provided guest assistance and ensured smooth event flow
  • Served as a pre-selection judge for film submissions (evaluated entries for creativity, storytelling, and technical quality)


NIDA - Stage Crew/Runner

October 2019

  • Coordinated large groups of performers across multi-day productions
  • Assisted with backstage logistics, cues, and performer movement
  • Supported stage crew with setup, transitions, and show operations

Timeline

Bartender

Camelia Grove Hotel
05.2023 - Current

Front of House/Bartender

Side - B Cocktail Bar
04.2023 - 06.2023

Waitress/Barista

Cardinal Freeman Cafe
03.2022 - 05.2023

Bartender/Waitress

The Rose of Australia
10.2021 - 03.2022

Bachelor of Media: Screen And Sound Production - Major in Film, Minor in Theatre Studies

University of New South Wales

High School Diploma -

Newtown Highschool of The Performing Arts

Young Actor's Studio -

NIDA
Ava O'Brien