Just a quick update with some photos and to announce that Mark Chandler of the WA Barista Academy has taken out this years WA Barista Competition. Mark had an excellent routine and amongst a small but quality field came out on top to take the win.
Mark signature drink of a pear puree, blueberry reduction and espresso with beetroot dust on top was both tasty and well constructed, and his overall routine and technique were enough to put him over the line.
Great effort this year by all the baristas though, who despite the hurried time frame, came together to put in some fantastic performances.
I was lucky (?) enough to judge all 9 competitors over the course of the day, and despite being massively over caffeinated now, really enjoyed the day. Big thanks to Ben Bicknell for pulling it together, the rest of the judges, runners, helpers, and competitors, and current Australian barista champ (and runner up in the WBC) Dave Makin for swinging over to lend a hand with judging and keeping things in check.
Look for more photos from the latte art and cupping competition tomorrow !
Great post and photos Matt – thanks for keeping those of us who could not be there up-to-date.
Love the lime green machine! Did competitors get a chance to try out that new steam leaver before the comp?
It was a great day of competition, I sampled so much coffee yesterday I was on a caffeine high last night.
Thanks for the add…and the new name! I like it a lot!! Need some help with that oh Software slash markeing guru!