Just in: The World Class Australia Top Six are here
Each of the top six have picked up awards and accolades in their careers.
The World Class Australia Top 100 round is done and dusted for another year, and this year’s finalists have been revealed.
The World Class Australia Top Six — you can see them below — sees a strong showing from NSW (with three Sydney-based bartenders making the cut), WA putting up two bartenders, and Tasmanian (and previous national finalist) Rohan Massie rounding things out.
The World Class Australia Top Six
- Jake Down, Alpha, Sydney NSW
- James Irvine, Merivale, Sydney NSW
- Matt Bodycote, State Buildings, Perth WA
- Rohan Massie, Ruby Boy, Hobart TAS
- Shirley Yeung, Foxtrot Unicorn, Perth WA
- Tom Opie, The Waratah, Sydney NSW
The standard for this instalment of the competition — now in its 15th year — has been higher than ever, according to World Class Australia ambassador Kate McGraw.
“This was one of the closest Top 100 rounds ever,” says Kate. “The standard of drinks was phenomenal, and all of the judges agreed that there wasn’t a single bad drink that we tasted. It was outstanding seeing so many first time competitors bringing such high quality drinks to the Top 100 round!”
“We loved seeing people tell their stories and the stories of their serve. It was endlessly impressive both the standard of posts, but also the quality of the stories people weaved. Everyone this year brought their authentic self to the competition, and it was so inspiring to watch.”
As to the tequila the bartenders across the Top 100 opted for, it seems that reposado might be having its day as a favourite among bartenders.
“With the whole Don Julio Tequila range on offer for this challenge, Don Julio Reposado was the favourite, followed closely by Don Julio Blanco,” says Kate.
It’s an impressive finalist list, that’s for sure. There are four national cocktail comp winners among them, and each of them have picked up national accolades throughout their careers.
As to what’s next? The six finalists will now prepare to compete at the World Class Bartender of the Year 2024 Australia National Finals on the 27th of May.
“They will compete in three rounds,” says Kate, “and one will ultimately be crowned as our next National Champion, and go on to compete in Shanghai in September.”
