Last night at the Oxford Art Factory, Brisbane’s own Kristin Christie from The Gresham was named the 2025 Speed Rack Australia Champion, presented by William Grant & Sons Australia.
Now in its latest season, the bartending competition once again brought together some of the country’s top women+ bartenders for a night of speed, skill, and spirit – all in support of a greater cause. This year, Speed Rack Australia raised over $15,000 for Tour de Cure, driving crucial funding for breast cancer research and prevention initiatives.
“Watching Ivy and Lynnette’s passion for Speed Rack and the way they champion women in hospitality is genuinely inspiring,” said Jonathan Sully, Head of Marketing at William Grant & Sons Australia. “Kristin’s performance was outstanding – her composure, precision, and confidence behind the bar were remarkable.”
Founded in 2011 by bartending icons Ivy Mix and Lynnette Marrero, Speed Rack began in New York as a way to elevate and celebrate women and femme-identifying bartenders in a male-dominated industry. Over the years, it’s evolved into a global movement – one that merges fierce competition with meaningful purpose.
The 2025 Australian season saw heats take place across the country in June and July before the top contenders faced off in Sydney for the final showdown. Representing every corner of Australia, the finalists included Anneliese Grazioli (NT), Bridget Love (WA), Cat Cheeseman (TAS), Flick Eshman (NSW), Kaila Perruzza (WA), Lex Karyee Mak (SA), Kayla Reid (VIC), Mix Marseilles (SA), Sara Behunin (NSW), Tk Hewett (QLD), Trinity Bird (VIC) – and of course, Kristin Christie (QLD), who ultimately took home the title.
Each competitor showcased lightning-fast technique and impeccable precision, mixing classic cocktails with some of William Grant & Sons’ most recognisable brands, including Monkey Shoulder, Hendrick’s Gin, Sailor Jerry Rum, Glenfiddich, Reyka Vodka, Milagro Tequila, and De Kuyper Liqueurs.
As the newly crowned champion, Kristin will now collaborate with Rachael Barlett, National Monkey Shoulder Brand Ambassador, to design a $5,000 professional development package tailored to her growth within the hospitality industry.
From the first shake to the final pour, Speed Rack Australia 2025 wasn’t just a competition – it was a celebration of community, creativity, and the unstoppable energy of women in hospitality.
Congratulations to Kristin Christie – your 2025 Speed Rack Australia winner.