A Queensland hospitality group has been ordered to backpay hundreds of employees after it was found to have “systematically ripped off” young workers. 

The Fair Work Commission found Mantle Hospitality Group, which runs iconic venues including the Pig ‘n’ Whistle and Jimmy’s on the Mall, deprived employees penalty rates.

It’s believed up to 300 workers could be owed a combined $200,000.

Former Mantle Group employee Heinrich Thom told Bill McDonald the practice was well-known among staff.

“As soon as I was hired, within the first week, my co-workers, as soon as they heard we wouldn’t receive any penalty rates, it was major talk among all of us,” he said.

“Now, the chat between all hospitality workers, they are very aware of this hospitality organisation because of the penalty rates.

“As soon as you hear the name ‘Mantle Group’, it would all be, ‘Isn’t that the company that doesn’t pay properly?'”

Press PLAY below to hear Heinrich Thom explain his experience + what he wants to come from the findings 

A senior manager could also be referred to the federal police.

Image: Getty