20th – 21st October 2025
The 2025 AWDA Annual Conference brought members together in Sydney from Monday 20th to Tuesday 21st October for three days of connection, education and industry collaboration.
Monday was a full-day of distillery tours showcasing some of the city’s most innovative craft producers. Starting from the Ace Hotel Sydney, the group visited Brix Distillers to explore modern Australian rum making, before heading to Banks & Solander Distillery for a behind-the-scenes look at their boutique approach to small-batch spirits using native botanicals.
The afternoon continued at Archie Rose Distilling Co., featuring a guided tour, tastings, and lunch highlighting their innovative distilling techniques, before finishing at Ester Spirits, where guests experienced their creative, experimental approach to spirits in a vibrant working distillery and bar space.
The day concluded with a group dinner, wrapping up a showcase of Sydney’s dynamic and evolving craft spirits scene.
Tuesday’s information sessions was hosted at Ace Hotel, Surry Hills featuring a range of expert-led discussions and workshops designed to support and inspire women in distilling. Sessions included sensory training with Sarah Andrew (WSET), a practical 90 Day Marketing Action Plan with Lisa Byrne, an ABAC advertising session with Sally Walsh and a spirit blending workshop with Silvia Segato from Archie Rose Distilling Co.
The day also included the AWDA Annual General Meeting, networking, spirit tastings and a shared dinner, celebrating the AWDA community.
Australian Women in Distilling Association 