That's a wrap!
Record Attendance and Strong Industry Focus Deliver Successful National Conference
The 2026 Australian Distillers Conference has concluded after bringing together more than 400 distillers, nearly 70 speakers, 45 exhibitors, government representatives, industry experts and stakeholders from across Australia for three days of learning, collaboration, industry leadership – and a whole lot of fun!
The conference provided delegates with an extensive program covering advocacy, market opportunities, innovation, sustainability, tourism, workforce development, export and the future growth of Australia's spirits industry.
Australian Distillers Association Chief Executive Officer Kylie Lethbridge, said the event demonstrated the strength, resilience and determination of the Australian distilling community.
"This conference was about more than bringing people together. It was about building the future of our industry together."
"Delegates heard from some of the country's leading experts, explored practical solutions to industry challenges and strengthened the relationships that underpin our sector's success."
The conference came at an important time for Australian distillers as businesses navigate ongoing economic pressures, rising production costs, taxation challenges and changing consumer behaviours.
Throughout the event, delegates participated in plenary sessions, technical workshops and industry discussions designed to equip businesses with the knowledge, tools and connections needed to thrive.
The conference also highlighted the growing international opportunities available to Australian spirits producers, building on the momentum generated by the recent Australian Distillers Association's largest-ever international trade mission.
"The energy throughout the conference was incredible," Kylie said.
"Our industry innovates, adapts and supports one another and the conversations, ideas and partnerships formed this week will continue to deliver benefits long after delegates return home."
The Australian Distillers Association extends its gratitude to all speakers, sponsors, exhibitors and delegates whose contribution helped make the event a success.
2026 Industry Award Winners
Celebrating Excellence, Leadership and Innovation
Australia's leading distillers gathered to celebrate the individuals and businesses shaping the future of the nation's spirits industry at the inagural 2026 Australian Distillers Awards.
Held as part of the national Australian Distillers Conference 2026, the awards recognised outstanding achievement across safety, sustainability, innovation, leadership and industry contribution, showcasing the resilience, creativity and determination that continue to define Australia's distilling community.
Opening the gala awards evening, Australian Distillers Association President David Ridden challenged attendees to think boldly about the future of the industry.
"Think about how we lead, not how we follow. Push hard and never ever give up."
The message resonated strongly throughout the evening as industry members reflected on both the opportunities and challenges facing Australian distilling.
Australian Distillers Association Chief Executive Officer Kylie Lethbridge said the awards recognised not only excellence in business performance, but the people whose passion and commitment continue to strengthen the entire sector.
"These awards celebrate the innovators, leaders and pioneers who are helping to build a stronger future for Australian distilling. Their achievements demonstrate the extraordinary talent that exists across our industry and the important contribution distillers make to regional communities, tourism, manufacturing and the national economy."
The 2026 Australian Distillers Award winners are:
Distiller of the Year: Kristy Lark (Killara Distillery)
Distiller of the Year: Sarah Prowse (Four Pillars Gin)
The judging panel elected to award two winners in this category.
Safety Award: Callington Mill Distillery
Sustainability & Responsibility Award: Furneaux Distillery
Innovation Award: Anther Geelong Distillery
Emerging Distillery Award: Dharawal Distilling Co.
Hall of Fame inductee: David Vitale (Starward Whisky)
The evening concluded with the induction of Starward Whisky founder David Vitale into the Australian Distillers Hall of Fame. In an emotional and often humorous address, Vitale reflected on the journey of building one of Australia's most recognised whisky brands while paying tribute to colleagues, supporters and the broader distilling community that helped shape the company's success.
"The Hall of Fame recognises individuals whose contribution extends well beyond their own business," Ms Lethbridge said.
"David's impact on Australian whisky and the international reputation of Australian spirits has been significant and enduring."
The Australian Distillers Association congratulates all finalists and winners and thanks the judges, sponsors and industry supporters who continue to invest in the success of Australia's distilling sector.
As the industry continues to navigate economic pressures, regulatory challenges and changing consumer trends, the awards served as a powerful reminder of the innovation, resilience and collaboration that continue to drive Australian distilling forward.
