We put a call-out to the women in Australian distilling to give us an insight into who they are, and why they chose this industry, here’s some of their responses!
MAE CARTHEW
Experiences & Experimental Distiller at Earp Distilling Co, NSW
HOW MANY YEARS HAVE YOU BEEN IN THE INDUSTRY?
Less than 1 year
WHAT SPARKED YOUR INTEREST IN THE INDUSTRY?
"The spirit industry has completely changed its reputation and has become this intriguing, experimental and fun experience which many people now bond over. I never pictured myself as a distiller, more just someone who was more than happy to learn and share knowledge with people about the spirits. I landed myself in this position out of pure luck and I have never felt so at home, so quickly in a workplace."
YOUR MOST PROUD MOMENTS IN THE INDUSTRY?
"While I haven't been a part of the industry for long, I am proud of how much I have grown alongside the passion I have gained for spirits and watching how they can bring people together"
WHAT HAVE YOU FOUND TO BE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES IN THE INDUSTRY?
"Some of the clientele that I speak to are a little judgemental and a little reserved when asking me questions - I definitely don't look like someone you would expect to be a distiller, nor someone passionate about distilling and the science behind it. But I've realised that once I start answering their questions, they see the passion shine through."
WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE THAT KNOWS NOTHING ABOUT AUSSIE CRAFT SPIRITS?
"There is so much more out there than you might know. Exploring the smaller distilleries is an exciting journey, you never know until you've ventured out there."
WHAT IS SOMETHING THAT YOU WOULD WANT TO TELL YOUR YOUNGER SELF?
"As hard as it may seem, have confidence within yourself and leave the comfort zone, even just a little. Good things can happen."
WHAT IS YOUR PARTY TRICK?
"I taught myself a little bit of poi dancing and the basics of juggling, just so that I could have a 'party trick'."
WHO HAS INSPIRED YOU THE MOST IN YOUR CAREER SO FAR?
"It's a combination between my partner and my manager - Ness Zietsman. My partner has seen the positive changes within me in the short time I've been at Earp Distilling Co. and he has been my number one supporter from the start, always giving me the confidence to push myself that tiny bit further. My manager has been amazing with always listening and encouraging my ideas and also pushing me along."