2024 has been a massive year for Jac Landmark. They won the Rookie of the Year (proudly sponsored by The Blend) award at the Bartender Magazine Bar Awards and took out the top spot in The Perfect Blend Cocktail Comp. What a journey! We sat down with Jac to chat about their epic year, their new role, and what the future holds.
Tell us a little bit about how you got into the bar industry.
Before I started bartending, I very briefly worked at a chain coffee shop. It was the worst four shifts of my life, but it made me realise I loved the hands-on aspect of service work. After that, I applied for a job at a local pub. Thanks to my Certificate III in Horticulture and Conservation, they hired me to water their plants! I like to think I’ve worked my way up since then, though I’m still on plant duty.
You’ve had a lot of success, and your profile is on the rise. Why do you think that’s happened?
I tend to jump at any and all opportunities—I’m terrible at saying no! I’m more likely to regret not trying something than trying and failing. This industry is packed with opportunities, and I think being persistent has helped me achieve some great things, meet new people, and get my name out there.
“The drinks are fun, the customers are lovely, and I have to say the bathrooms are the best in WA. The team is one of the best I’ve ever worked with. As for my role, I’m a typical bartender—making drinks, clearing tables, polishing glassware (and sometimes Pippa’s shoes).”
What have been some of the highlights of the journey so far?
Watching Pip and Murray open Bar Love is definitely a highlight. I’m so lucky to have them as friends, and being part of their opening team has been an absolute blast. Also, getting to meet incredibly talented bartenders from all over the country has been a real privilege. I’ve made lifelong friendships through this industry.
You’re now at the newbie Bar Love, working with some industry legends. Tell us about the venue and your role.
It’s got such a quirky, homely vibe—like bartending in someone’s living room, but a very pink, very disco living room! The drinks are fun, the customers are lovely, and I have to say the bathrooms are the best in WA. The team is one of the best I’ve ever worked with. As for my role, I’m a typical bartender—making drinks, clearing tables, polishing glassware (and sometimes Pippa’s shoes).
Who have been some of the mentors in your career?
Aside from Pip and Murray, Brendan Scott Grey has been a huge mentor. He ran the first training session I ever attended, which introduced me to the hospitality community. He also organised the Yonekichi Maeda Scholarship, which took me to Tokyo to intern at Bar High Five. He’s taught me so much about spirits, classic cocktails, and techniques. His drive, knowledge, and passion are a massive inspiration.
What does a great bar shift look like to you?
Any shift at Bar Love now that the tap beers are finally working!
Who’s the best person to be in the trenches with on a busy night?
Kaila Perruzza. She lifts the energy the second she walks in and absolutely crushes it behind the bar. She’s also probably the least likely to break a glass in the well.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
Honestly, I’m not sure what I’ll have for dinner tonight, so this is a tough one! I’ve been planning a long trip to Europe, so hopefully in five years I’ll have spent some time working and travelling abroad—and maybe even moved over east.
What’s the best bar you’ve been to and why?
Red Light in Manchester. During the Perfect Blend UK trip, it was my favourite spot. Great cocktails, lovely hospitality, and the best pickleback I’ve ever had.
What are you drinking right now?
I’m triple parked with a Guinness, a Bloody Mary, and an oat milk cappuccino.
What do you love about the Perth bar scene?
I love the community. Since we’re smaller than other cities in Australia, we have a real “everyone knows everyone” vibe. We run a lot of fun events, and people always turn up to support each other—whether it’s competitions like the Bin Chicken Championships or Youngbloods, picnics in the park, training sessions, or even the occasional Beyblade Tournament. We have a lot of fun here!
You can find Jac behind the stick at Bar Love.
195 Brisbane St, Northbridge, Western Australia
www.barlove.com.au | @barlovebar