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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! SAMANTHA STEFANI Distiller at Banks & Solander Distillery, NSW HOW MANY YEARS HAVE YOU BEEN IN THE INDUSTRY? 8-12 years WHAT SPARKED YOUR INTEREST IN THE INDUSTRY? "During my freshman year at university, all first year students had to take a first year seminar type course. There was a huge array of different topics to pick from and I chose Fermented Foods thinking "food yum!." The course was a lot more scientific than I was expecting, but I loved every class and towards the end of the semester, my professor suggested I switch my major from International Business to Fermentation Science since I was enjoying the course so much. From there I got a Bachelor of Science in Fermentation with a concentration on Brewing Science & Analysis and a Minor in Chemistry. When I graduated, I thought I was going to become a beer brewer, but quickly came to realize I didn't really like beer that much! Luckily, Archie Rose was hiring for an Assistant Distiller position and from there I completely fell in love with distilling/spirits." YOUR MOST PROUD MOMENTS IN THE INDUSTRY? "My proudest moment thus far has been playing a pivotal role in helping to build and grow Banks & Solander Distillery. Being able to contribute to the business and witnessing the tangible impact of my efforts has been incredibly rewarding. What makes this achievement even more special is the collaboration and teamwork involved. Working for Marty & Ed Svehla, the owners of Banks & Solander, who share the same passion and vision has been both inspiring and fulfilling. Together, we have tackled numerous challenges, celebrated wins, and created something we are really proud of. Knowing that my contributions have played a role in Banks & Solander's success fills me with a tremendous sense of accomplishment." WHAT HAVE YOU FOUND TO BE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES IN THE INDUSTRY? "Finding a space on the shelf amongst all the large, international brands. The large, global companies are able to offer lower prices, better deals, promotions, sponsorships, contracts, etc. that we, as a small craft distillery, cannot compete with." WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE THAT KNOWS NOTHING ABOUT AUSSIE CRAFT SPIRITS? "How incredibly tasty they are! Our spirits are some of the best in the world and we have some of the most innovative and talented distillers doing amazing things." WHAT IS SOMETHING THAT YOU WOULD WANT TO TELL YOUR YOUNGER SELF? "Don't be so tough on yourself and focus on the positives." WHAT IS YOUR PARTY TRICK? "Having survived the cultural clash of attending Uni in the South and being raised by two parents from New Jersey, I've honed my skills in perfecting both southern drawls and Jersey accents! You can say I've mastered the art of saying 'fuhgeddaboudit' with a twang." WHO HAS INSPIRED YOU THE MOST IN YOUR CAREER SO FAR? "Shane Casey has been my mentor since the beginning of my Australian distilling career. He's got so much knowledge and skill in the industry and always goes above and beyond to give guidance and help to anyone who needs it. Additionally, Shane's belief in my potential has had a massive impact on my self-confidence. During times of self-doubt, he's been there to offer encouragement, constructive feedback, and support. His belief in my abilities has given me the courage to take risks, push past my limits, and pursue my goals."

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! CHLOE OPPITZ Distiller at Lawrenny Estate Distillery, TAS HOW MANY YEARS HAVE YOU BEEN IN THE INDUSTRY? 4-7 years WHAT SPARKED YOUR INTEREST IN THE INDUSTRY? "Growing up with immigrant grandparents, I always had a strong cultural connection to spirits from a young age. It wasn't until I started working closely with spirits from a hospitality setting that I developed a strong curiosity regarding how spirit was made. I fell deeply in love with Tasmanian single malt whisky and convinced myself that I could contribute to the craftmanship of distillation. The more I learnt about the craft, the stronger the pull was to join this unique industry where the fusion of science and creativity blended together perfectly." YOUR MOST PROUD MOMENTS IN THE INDUSTRY? "Personally, just seeing my colleagues and peers get recognition for all their hard work. I think there's a slight underestimation of the amount of dedication and talent that needs to go into a product. And constantly seeing Australian Spirit win prestigious international awards is the recognition the artisans of the industry deserve. The Lawrenny team recently got terrific results from the San Francisco Spirit Awards, and I'm so incredibly proud and grateful that this team of hardworking and passionate individuals can be reassured that the love they have for the spirit is recognised." WHAT HAVE YOU FOUND TO BE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES IN THE INDUSTRY? "Mental health awareness. In my opinion, more distilleries need to have an open discussion about mental health both within the workplace and outside of it. Being able to create an unstigmatised environment where people are happy and comfortable starts with a workplace that is mental health aware. I believe the foundations of this industry was built on mateship, and it's important to remember that." WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE THAT KNOWS NOTHING ABOUT AUSSIE CRAFT SPIRITS? "That the industry is still in its infancy. Considering the quality we're putting out now, imagine just how good it's gonna get!" WHAT IS SOMETHING THAT YOU WOULD WANT TO TELL YOUR YOUNGER SELF? "Don't judge yourself or others by their mistakes as they are important lessons." WHAT IS YOUR PARTY TRICK? "My party trick is my ability to have Lady Gaga's whole lyrical catalogue ready to go at any point. Yes, this is an open invitation for karaoke." WHO HAS INSPIRED YOU THE MOST IN YOUR CAREER SO FAR? "I've had multiple people inspire me throughout my distilling career thus far. The two that come to mind are Joe Dinsmore and Matt Lowe. I am so grateful to currently work alongside Joe, his talent and knowledge inspire me every day. Joe has taught me many lessons in distilling and in life and so graciously continues to encourage me. Matt showed me the importance of mentorship and continues to be a pillar of support. Both these people inspire me to not only believe in myself but to equally believe in others." WHAT ELSE DO YOU WANT US TO KNOW? "I really want to encourage the importance of education, especially junior distillers. Backing someone about what path be shared."

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! Ally Bhana Assistant Sales Manager at Sullivan's Cove Whisky, TAS HOW MANY YEARS HAVE YOU BEEN IN THE INDUSTRY? 4-7 years WHAT SPARKED YOUR INTEREST IN THE INDUSTRY? "I spent most of my 20s travelling and spent some of that time living in Europe. It was there that I started to develop a taste for whisky while living in Ireland and Scotland. I was working in hospitality at that time as a way to fund my travels, and eventually landed a job in a whisky bar in The Netherlands. This really sparked my passion for the industry and was a real lightbulb moment in my career. I started to learn how diverse the flavour profiles in whisky were, and how fun it was sharing the stories of each product. The community surrounding whisky also drew me in. In 2019 I ended up deciding to finish up my travels and move a bit closer to home. I decided I wanted to pursue a job in whisky in Tasmania after learning a bit about it in the bars I had been working in. I'm 4 years in now, and really glad I made that decision!" YOUR MOST PROUD MOMENTS IN THE INDUSTRY? "A real tough one, as there have been a few! I think the opportunity to travel to London to attend the World Whiskies Awards and represent Sullivan's Cove earlier in the year would definitely be a big one. We are a small distillery punching above our weight on the global stage and I feel really proud to work for a brand held in such high regard. I've been lucky to have so many amazing opportunities presented to me while working in the Tasmanian spirits industry so far." WHAT HAVE YOU FOUND TO BE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES IN THE INDUSTRY? "I remember feeling quite intimidated at first presenting to crowds of enthusiasts and suffering a bit from imposter syndrome. I think it takes time to build up your knowledge and confidence and feel that you are an authority on the products you are presenting. Lots of people in the industry have really been so supportive in helping me along in my journey. I'm constantly learning, which is one thing I love about working in the industry." WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE THAT KNOWS NOTHING ABOUT AUSSIE CRAFT SPIRITS? "Take the journey - Dive right in, meet the makers, hear the stories and don't be afraid to ask what might seem like a stupid question. There is so much innovation and diversity in what people are making locally, you're missing out if you don't explore what's out there and find out what sets our products apart." WHAT IS SOMETHING THAT YOU WOULD WANT TO TELL YOUR YOUNGER SELF? "Live in the moment more! It will all work out ok in the end." WHAT IS YOUR PARTY TRICK? "Oh wow, I don't really have one. People are often surprised that I'm a big 90s Grunge music fan and can whip out the lyrics to lots of Pearl Jam and Nirvana songs, and others from that era though haha. Does that count?" WHO HAS INSPIRED YOU THE MOST IN YOUR CAREER SO FAR? "My former boss Said Bijary from The Malt Vault in The Netherlands. Had he not taken me on as an employee at his wonderful bar, I might not have found the passion I have for the industry. That was an incredible work place with fantastic customers and a great start to my journey working with whisky." WHAT ELSE DO YOU WANT US TO KNOW? "Well since you asked, how could I not mention my gorgeous cat Clay. I love him as much as I love my whisky and he often gets to feature on my Instagram page - whiskiesnwhiskers. He's very cute, and his special talents are that he can walk with a harness and lead. He loathes the smell of whisky and other alcohols."

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! NICOLA THOMPSON-HANCOCK Co-Founder & Business Development Director at Mother of Pearl Vodka, NSW HOW MANY YEARS HAVE YOU BEEN IN THE INDUSTRY? 1-3 years WHAT SPARKED YOUR INTEREST IN THE INDUSTRY? "Nic – my husband, and Covid! We launched MoP to the market early 2022, however my real involvement came into play during covid as travel restrictions cut short my work travel. Even though still working from home with some incredible fashion wholesale software platforms I found myself working more and more in the branding and identity development of Mother of Pearl. My side of the business evolved organically, as a combination of the Business Development and Branding. Imparting the feminine standpoint in the brand and creating the desire and aspiration to our customer thru the branding and visual communications. We felt early in the launch of Mother of Pearl that having a female overseeing the overall story of the brand was preferable than Nic a middle-aged male. My career with Australian Fashion Designers has always been selling in global market and not so much Australia, so my brain always thinks internationally first. Often the local market gains traction after international recognition. I got excited about the production business model of ‘one product’ the commercial benefits coupled with the resources and environmental implications were all key winning indicators to me." YOUR MOST PROUD MOMENTS IN THE INDUSTRY? "Crossing over my skill set to a new industry, and realizing essentially the same principles apply in business development and brand identity. Scoping out and wining business, learning to navigate the big players locked into contracts and finding creative ways to gain more brand presence. The reaction to Mother of Pearl Vodka as a Brand and its strong identity has been so rewarding, the imagery, the story, the profile is resonating to the customer we want to capture. Mother of Pearl is Australia's award-winning Vodka, redefining the international spirit market, by producing a premium grape-based Vodka that complements our distinctly antipodean lifestyle with a youthful feminine appeal. We aim to capitalise on the providence of a grape-based naturally gluten free vodka with zero sugar with less heat on the palate for the ever-growing discerning audience. Oh and silver medals at the IWSC 2022 and 2023 awards in London." WHAT HAVE YOU FOUND TO BE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES IN THE INDUSTRY? "The costs to run, alcohol excise costs, alcohol licensing costs, it’s incredibly expensive to break into markets as an independent distillery." WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE THAT KNOWS NOTHING ABOUT AUSSIE CRAFT SPIRITS? "Find your niche in the market." WHAT IS SOMETHING THAT YOU WOULD WANT TO TELL YOUR YOUNGER SELF? "Let go of the self-doubt and the constant comparison of yourself to others and their achievements, instead believe in yourself, your abilities and what you have to offer." WHAT IS YOUR PARTY TRICK? "Special Talent - My ability to visualise and find a carpark where I need it. (Thanks mum) Party Trick – My Karaoke version of Belinda Carlisle’s “Heaven is a place on earth”." WHO HAS INSPIRED YOU THE MOST IN YOUR CAREER SO FAR? "My mums’ entrepreneurial independence. I grew up in NZ on a dairy farm the youngest of four children, with a mother who ran her own business and generated income independent of her husband. She was creative, entrepreneurial and could sell a product because her clients trusted her." WHAT ELSE DO YOU WANT US TO KNOW? "In my fashion career to date my philosophy is that that polite and respectful persistence gets you a long way. In the business world we need to be firm but kind and respectful to all sides of business engagement. I hope that with the personal profile that I’ve built within the industries that I have worked within, that when I reach out for any reason someone takes the time to respond. For me as a woman that’s power."

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."

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! REBECCA BULLEN Founder of Charlies of Darwin, NT HOW MANY YEARS HAVE YOU BEEN IN THE INDUSTRY? 1-3 years WHAT SPARKED YOUR INTEREST IN THE INDUSTRY? "The flavours of Australia and in particular the Top End. I have worked in the hospitality scene from aged 13, and have owned a bar for 13 years" YOUR MOST PROUD MOMENTS IN THE INDUSTRY? "The relationships I have made. From suppliers, indigenous communities, to like-minded women in business, to stalwarts of the industry" WHAT HAVE YOU FOUND TO BE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES IN THE INDUSTRY? "Tyranny of distance" WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE THAT KNOWS NOTHING ABOUT AUSSIE CRAFT SPIRITS? "We have only just begun the Australian spirits journey." WHAT IS SOMETHING THAT YOU WOULD WANT TO TELL YOUR YOUNGER SELF? "What is the worst that can happen?" WHAT IS YOUR PARTY TRICK? "I don't get hangovers." WHO HAS INSPIRED YOU THE MOST IN YOUR CAREER SO FAR? "Lesley Gracie. Knowledgeable, kind and an absolute powerhouse of flavours & skill. Because of Lesley's work I am now growing my own native botanicals that are unique to the Northern Territory." ANYTHING ELSE THAT YOU WANT US TO KNOW? "I forage for most of the botanicals, up against crocodiles, pythons and other critters."

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! DANIELLE COSTLEY Director at SouWester Spirits, WA HOW MANY YEARS HAVE YOU BEEN IN THE INDUSTRY? 4-7 years WHAT SPARKED YOUR INTEREST IN THE INDUSTRY? "I’m a wine writer and winemaker so it was a natural progression for me to also become a distiller." YOUR MOST PROUD MOMENTS IN THE INDUSTRY? "Being a single mum who has launched this distillery on my own and I’m still a one woman operation." WHAT HAVE YOU FOUND TO BE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES IN THE INDUSTRY? "It’s still a new industry so there hasn’t been a lot of support when wanting to learn about new products and botanicals." WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE THAT KNOWS NOTHING ABOUT AUSSIE CRAFT SPIRITS? "Taste as much as you can. Learn what you like and why." WHAT IS SOMETHING THAT YOU WOULD WANT TO TELL YOUR YOUNGER SELF? "That third dram at the end of the night might not be such a great idea. 😁" WHAT IS YOUR PARTY TRICK? "I am a distiller, food and wine writer so I make perfectly balanced spirits at SouWester, that can be enjoyed neat. That is really important to me as I find there’s a lot of product out there that doesn’t have balance or substance" WHO HAS INSPIRED YOU THE MOST IN YOUR CAREER SO FAR? "I love how Kylie Minogue has created a brand for herself over the years and now has her own wine and sunglass brands, among many other things. She knows how to build a brand for longevity."

This International Women's Day we're celebrating at Bloodwood in Newtown, NSW for our 4th year running! We'll hear from the below guest speakers whilst we enjoy a feast that is put together by Claire Van Vuuren and the team at Bloodwood. 1) Rosemary Smith | Distiller & Owner - Black Snake Distillery (NSW) 2) Corinna Kovner | Distiller & Owner - Ester Spirits (NSW) 3) Nicola Thompson-Hancock | Owner - Mother of Pearl (VIC) 4) Ruby Davis | Distiller - North of Eden (NSW) 5) Charles Casben | Brand Ambassador - Australian Gin Distillers Association The day will be hosted by the wonderful Christina Butcher from Mr & Mrs Romance who has hosted some of our events before and helped our speakers to feel right at home! We're excited to say that our event is now completely sold out! But fear not, if you were unable to get your hands on tickets, we've gathered up some other events across Australia for you to attend! SOUTH AUSTRALIA Mighty Craft International Women’s Day, feat. Erin Phillips OAM They're celebrating at Mismatch Brewing Adelaide on the 8th of March 2023. They are excited to announce their special guest and speaker will be Erin Phillips OAM, former professional basketball player, Olympian, and WNBA coach, and now radio host and captain of the Port Adelaide AFLW team. Enjoy canapés, cocktails, and a special IWD Mismatch dry-hopped lager, crafted by the women of Mighty Craft with the support of their incredible Brewers. Be inspired by Erin, who will take you on her journey of how she navigated her field to achieve the incredible success she is known for globally. Date: 8th March 2023 Time: 3pm to 6pm QUEENSLAND WOMEN IN WALRUS Join them underneath the Regatta Hotel at the Walrus Club for a night to remember. In celebration of International Women’s Day, they will be hosting a female cocktail competition and all female bar takeover. Enjoy live music, a cocktail competition, food and drinks along with some fun activities along the way. Date: 5th March 2023 Time: 5pm to 10pm VICTORIA International Women’s Day Breakfast in Melbourne International Women’s Day is THE event on the Business Chicks calendar and one they know the community leave feeling inspired and challenged to make the world a better place for women all around the world. The theme for 2023 is #EmbraceEquity and their line-up is all about creating a fair and equal world. Date: Thursday 16 March 2023 Time: 7:30am to 10:00am NORTHERN TERRITORY No Woman Left Behind Conference The No Woman Left Behind Conference is the largest event in the Territory in the lead up to International Women’s Day. In 2023 the special guest speaker is 2021’s Australian of the Year, GRACE TAME. Date: Friday 3rd March 2023 Time: 8:30 am to 4:30 pm WESTERN AUSTRALIA UNAA WA International Women's Day Breakfast The UNAA WA invites professionals, community members and all UNAA WA members, guests and friends, as well as those dedicated to or curious about gender equality, to join them for a panel discussion featuring esteemed guest speakers who will share their stories and successes under the theme: Cracking the Code: Innovation for a Gender Equal Future. The panel will be preceded by a light breakfast and the opportunity to network and to meet the Gender Equality Committee. All proceeds from this event will go toward funding the UNAA WA Gender Equality Committee’s Young Women’s Leadership Development Program, which has been developed to raise aspirations and inspire leadership in young women of diverse backgrounds. Date: Wednesday 8th March 2023 Time: From 7am TASMANIA IWD at darby-norris distillery Paige & Liane from Darby-Norris Distillery would like to invite you to celebrate IWD at the distillery. With two time slots to choose from, each will feature guest speakers, light lunch & tea and dessert. Date: Wednesday 8th March 2023 Time: 12pm and 4.30pm Act INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY DINNER Celebrate International Women’s Day with a four course meal. Hear from their three hosts Kate Freeman, Yasmin Coe and Sarah McDougall who are each successful business women in the local region. Diners will enjoy a delicious meal prepared by three of their leading female chefs; Phoebe Tarrant, Maria Le and Jasmeen Kaur, paired with wines from Lake George Winery. Date: Wednesday 8th March 2023 Time: 6.30pm

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! VANESSA ZIETSMAN Experiences Manager/ Assistant Distiller at Earp Distilling Co, NSW HOW MANY YEARS HAVE YOU BEEN IN THE INDUSTRY? 1-3 years WHAT SPARKED YOUR INTEREST IN THE INDUSTRY? "I have always loved learning and had been looking for something new to learn within the hospitality industry. The Owner Mike and Manager Cam at Earp Distilling encourage staff to learn and move upwards. Hence getting me obsessed with the distilling world." YOUR MOST PROUD MOMENTS IN THE INDUSTRY? "Making a product that is well received/loved" WHAT HAVE YOU FOUND TO BE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES IN THE INDUSTRY? "As I'm still fairly new to the industry, I find the biggest challenge trying to keep up with the boys when it comes to information and understanding the information given, as I do have a slight learning disability." WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE THAT KNOWS NOTHING ABOUT AUSSIE CRAFT SPIRITS? "Taste them.. you would be very surprised at the amazing flavours you can find right here." WHAT IS SOMETHING THAT YOU WOULD WANT TO TELL YOUR YOUNGER SELF? "Take more notes in History, it helps to understand why we do certain things today." WHAT IS YOUR PARTY TRICK? "Little bit of a comedian, but mainly funny looking" WHO HAS INSPIRED YOU THE MOST IN YOUR CAREER SO FAR? "Michael Earp- has been extremely supportive and patient in my journey so far."

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! Rose Kentish Co-Founder & Head Distiller at Full Circle Spirits, SA HOW MANY YEARS HAVE YOU BEEN IN THE INDUSTRY? 8-12 years WHAT SPARKED YOUR INTEREST IN THE INDUSTRY? "I first fell in love with the process of distillation while doing vintage in France in 2010; I was able to spend time on an old alembic copper still taking cuts of eau de vie made from grape marc." YOUR MOST PROUD MOMENTS IN THE INDUSTRY? "Receiving an award at Tasting Australia Spirit awards last year for the Best Independent Bottler (which is the strange title given to Distilleries who do not own the still they do their production distilling on). It was at the end of our first year of launching our range of vodka, gin, liqueurs and new make and it gave us some confidence and ‘air under our wings’ to continue with our aspirations to make some of the most premium, small batch spirits in Australia." ONE OF THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES YOU'VE FOUND IN THE INDUSTRY? "The industry is filling shelf space quite quickly now; there are many distilleries and consumers have a huge number of products from around the world to wade through before finding artisanal, premium, delicious spirits. They are more expensive to make, and therefore sit at a higher price point on the shelf, but I encourage everyone to drink less but better quality - it’s worth it!" WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE THAT KNOWS NOTHING ABOUT AUSSIE CRAFT SPIRITS? "There’s a playfulness when it comes to flavour expression that I see particularly in Australian craft distillers products. Distillers seem keen to express their love of unique botanicals and local flavours in their spirits. It’s magical and well worth exploring broadly and buying the spirits being made in Australia - lucky for consumers there is lots to love about Australian spirits right now!" WHAT IS SOMETHING THAT YOU WOULD WANT TO TELL YOUR YOUNGER SELF? "It’s ok to expand your skills as a maker across industries; how you define your career is up to you. I started making wine when I was 26, then began to learn to distill at 40. At 46 I co-founded a Brewing company and at 48 I’d made a range of non-alc beverages for our venue and beyond. By the time I turned 50 I plunged head-first into perfumery. The hardest part might just be excellence in all these areas of making, but it’s a goal i’m working towards, day by day." WHAT ELSE DO YOU WANT US TO KNOW? "A lot of the white spirit products in Australia were created to bring cashflow in to distilleries while they waited for their Whisky to mature in barrel. There will be a lot of Whisky being released in the next few years - some of it will be great and some not so good. It takes a lot of work, care, skill and money to make great Whisky. It’s going to be an exciting time for Whisky lovers to get out and taste broadly and support distilleries by buying what they love." WHO HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST INSPIRATION IN YOUR CAREER? "Bill & Lyn Lark and Jon & Sarah Lark, have been hugely inspiring. Both acted on their vision of founding white and dark spirits in Australia. Bill & Lyn forged a career (and founded the Aussie Whisky industry) in Tassie. Jon & Sarah went to Kangaroo Island and really established excellence in craft white spirits."

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! KATE GIBNEY & MEGAN COFFEY Owners, distillers and farmers at Steampunk Distillery ,QLD HOW MANY YEARS HAVE YOU BEEN IN THE INDUSTRY? 1-3 years WHAT SPARKED YOUR INTEREST IN THE INDUSTRY? "Self expression, run your own race to achieve quality spirits driven by passion." YOUR MOST PROUD MOMENTS IN THE INDUSTRY? "Peer master distillers buying product, with highly positive feedback. Return customers who love our products is a huge driver. The odd award validation helps to provide some proud moments" ONE OF THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES YOU'VE FOUND IN THE INDUSTRY? "People who want to 'take you for a ride' in guise of promotion of product." WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE THAT KNOWS NOTHING ABOUT AUSSIE CRAFT SPIRITS? "Try Aussie Spirits - the diversity being produced by so many passionate distillers is outstanding." WHAT IS SOMETHING THAT YOU WOULD WANT TO TELL YOUR YOUNGER SELF? "The same things I tell myself now. Move forward. Be Fearless. No regrets" WHAT ELSE DO YOU WANT US TO KNOW? "Megan and I are nurses who distill and run a small property. We are proud owners and distillers of our brand. Women who Distill."

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! debra spence CEO & Master Distiller at Conrad Distillery ,QLD HOW MANY YEARS HAVE YOU BEEN IN THE INDUSTRY? Less than 1 year WHAT SPARKED YOUR INTEREST IN THE INDUSTRY? "My connection to the distilling/spirits starts with my grandfather - Arthur Fredrick Smith, and his love for excellent scotch whisky and his stories of his Scottish father - Thomas Smith (who was killed in World War 1) and how his brave widow mother (Lydia Beatrice Flack) packed up her three grieving boys and brought them to Australia to give them better opportunities in life. My Great-grandmother was a pillar of courage and style. “It is better to have quality than quantity, especially regarding Pearls, Perfume and Gin”. My journey started when studying and working as a cosmetic chemist enabling me to study both in Australia and France, where I learnt the skill and importance of extraction of essential oils plus the understanding of how each combination must be selected to delight and express the mood/personality of the wearer. The same principles apply to the alcohol world. Deep diving into how refined spirits are produced and how to extract flavours and aromas that delight the taste buds and connoisseur passion connected me to my ancestors and passions. Making spirits excited my creativity and science mind; this, coupled with my belief in sustainability, the evolution of becoming a master distiller was inevitable - it is in my DNA and Soul." YOUR MOST PROUD MOMENTS IN THE INDUSTRY? "Winning 'Australia's Grape-Based Distillery of the Year' at the 2022 Melbourne International Spirit Competition and multiple medals in its first 3 months of operation. The wins confirmed that I could take Unloved Wine and turn it into Excellent Spirits in a sustainable way." ONE OF THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES YOU'VE FOUND IN THE INDUSTRY? "There are two challenges in this industry. I have never shied away from a career that is traditionally male-dominated, but in 2022 it still shocks me how many reporters and suppliers that want to meet "CONRAD, the master Distiller". The second is restrictive contracts that many pubs, clubs and bottleshops have with the large wholesale suppliers that reduce their opportunity to stock independent distillers and embrace the growing craft distilling industry." WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE THAT KNOWS NOTHING ABOUT AUSSIE CRAFT SPIRITS? "If you think our wines are great, you will love Australia Craft Spirits. We are kicking goals and producing spirits that are among the best in the world." WHAT IS SOMETHING THAT YOU WOULD WANT TO TELL YOUR YOUNGER SELF? "Never be afraid of getting out of your bed and remake it - never settle for second best. Life rewards people that are not afraid to learn, grow, and pivot until they find the right path to their passion and calling. P.S. You can do it." WHAT ELSE DO YOU WANT US TO KNOW? "I love getting to know and promoting this industry. Watching people's faces when they taste a spirit that pleases, excites and surprises them is a fantastic reward for a craft distiller."