On Monday, Joey Folkersma, from Darwin took out the title of Australian Bartender of the Year for 2024. The competition presented by Australian Bartender magazine and sponsored by Hendrick’s Gin and Monkey Shoulder Whisky.

The Top Three competed live on stage at Jackson’s on George on Monday night after a fierce competition on Monday morning at Kings Cross bar, The Hook. First they sat a challenging written exam, then the top eight competitors were subjected to a speed cocktail round and a blind tasting.

The final three who made it through were Loic Mouchelin from Sante Cocktail Bar in Toowoomba, Brendan Osmers from Alice Bar in Brisbane and Joey Folkersma from Hanky Panky Lounge in Darwin. They had to head to the city and showcase their drinks in front of more than 200 industry leaders.

Joey’s drinks on the night – a Hendrick’s cocktail and a Monkey Shoulder cocktail – blew the judges away and he scored the highest marks, making him this year’s Bartender of the Year. He will head to Scotland in 2025 with the team from Hendrick’s Gin and Monkey Shoulder as well as appearing on the cover of Australian Bartender magazine. This is also the first time in history that a bartender from Darwin has taken out the title.