Bartender of the Year - NEW
JUDGING – 20% WRITTEN SUBMISSION / 80% PRACTICAL MIXOLOGY DEMONSTRATION AND INTERVIEW
As part of the interview process for this category, candidates will be required to participate in a practical mixology element. An industry judge will visit the venue, and the candidate will then prepare:
- One (1) signature cocktail of their choice
- One (1) cocktail selected by the judge from the current drinks menu
The practical mixology assessment will take place at the nominee’s venue bar, followed by a sit-down interview with the judge.
The written submission should address the essential elements listed here plus the following:
CATEGORY SPECIFIC QUESTIONS
- Please outline the ingredients, composition, and inspiration for your signature cocktail.
- Please attach the full current drinks menu offered at the venue.
Categories
PROPERTY ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS
The following categories are judged by written submission. Entries are limited to ONE nomination per venue in each category:
PEOPLE AWARDS
The following categories are judged firstly by written submission, and then by an interview. Entries are limited to ONE nomination per venue in each category.
Applicants are awarded on their performance with the nominating property, over the qualifying period 1 January – 31 December 2025. The candidate must be available to appear for an interview via zoom between June - July 2026. Applicants require a minimum of 6 months employment with the nominating property.
EXPERIENCE AWARDS
The following categories are judged 100% by anonymous site inspection some which require vouchers or funds to be provided to cover the cost of judging. Entries are limited to ONE nomination per venue in each category:
Judging voucher information guidelines
FOOD AWARDS
The following categories are judged 100% by anonymous site inspection, which require vouchers or funds to be provided to cover the cost of judging. Entries are limited to ONE nomination per venue in each category:
ACCOMMODATION AWARDS
The following categories are judged 100% by anonymous site inspection, which require vouchers or funds to be provided to cover the cost of judging. Entries are limited to ONE nomination per venue in each category:
Judging voucher information guidelines
OVERALL HOTEL AWARDS - nominations are not required
- People’s Choice Award
- Hotel of the Year - Accommodation Division
- Hotel of the Year - General Division