As voting continues for this year’s T25, we are proud to introduce the second group of industry leaders helping guide the process. From award-winning bartenders and educators to whisky experts, brand ambassadors and venue leaders, each judge brings a unique perspective shaped by years spent behind the bar, building communities and championing hospitality at every level.
These are the people helping spotlight the talent, creativity and individuals pushing Australian bartending forward today.
Fred Siggins, Brand Ambassador – Starward Whisky VIC
Fred Siggins is a 25-year veteran of the hospitality and drinks industries, having worked as a chef, visual merchandiser, brand manager, educator and cocktail bartender. He also has more than a decade of experience as a drinks writer and spirits judge and is regarded as a leading expert on Australian whisky.
His writing on spirits, cocktails, bars and drinks culture has appeared in a range of national and international publications, most notably Boothby, where he covers the Melbourne bar scene through a weekly newsletter.
Alongside his writing, Fred currently works as Brand Ambassador for Starward Whisky in Victoria, and is co-owner of Melbourne American whiskey and cocktail bar Goodwater. Fred’s first cocktail recipe book will be published in the US, UK and Australia later this year.
Zach Mynott, National Bartender Engagement & Trade Advocacy Manager
Zach Mynott is the Head of Advocacy for Campari Academy, bringing over 15 years of hospitality experience and a genuine love for the trade to everything he does. Since starting out in Brisbane in 2009, Zach has carved out a career that sits right at the intersection of education, flavour, and great storytelling.
With a background in teaching, Zach has a knack for turning complex ideas into engaging, real-world learning, whether that’s on the bar, in a masterclass, or mid-conversation over a Negroni. He’s played a key role in growing Campari Academy across Australia, creating programs that don’t just educate, but genuinely connect with bartenders.
Known for his warm, approachable style and a healthy sense of humour, Zach doesn’t take himself too seriously, but he does take hospitality very seriously. Passionate about great drinks and even better people, he’s all about championing the craft and the community that makes the industry what it is.
Sarah Proietti, Head of Bars – Establishment Precinct at Merivale
Sarah Proietti is a hospitality leader with over 17 years of experience in the bar industry, including more than 12 years living and working in Australia.
Originally from Sardinia, Italy, she began her career behind the bar while studying business management in Milan, where she discovered an early passion for bartending and hospitality.
After moving to Australia, Sarah built her career across some of the country’s most respected venues. She played a key role in the global success of Maybe Sammy, one of the world’s most celebrated cocktail bars and a regular fixture on the The World’s 50 Best Bars list.
She currently serves as Head of Bars – Establishment Precinct at Merivale in Sydney, overseeing a portfolio of eight venues including Palmer & Co, Mr Wong and The Press. In this role she focuses on leadership, beverage innovation, and developing the next generation of hospitality professionals.
Sarah believes great hospitality is built on human connection, attention to detail, and the ability to create meaningful experiences for guests. Alongside her operational role, she regularly contributes to industry panels, masterclasses, and hospitality events.
Federico Malavenda, Australian Brand Ambassador, Fratelli Branca Distillerie
Born in the historic port city of Trieste, Federico Malavenda began his hospitality career in 2010 after moving to London, where he quickly fell in love with the fast pace, creativity and sense of community the bar world offers. What started as a job soon became a passion, leading him to explore cocktail culture, spirits education and the art of hospitality across a range of venues and styles of service.
Today, Federico proudly represents Fratelli Branca Distillerie as the Australian Brand Ambassador, sharing the stories, traditions and unmistakable character behind some of Italy’s most iconic spirits. His role allows him to connect with bartenders, venues and hospitality communities across the country while celebrating the culture that helped shape his career.
Known for his outgoing and energetic personality, Federico thrives on bringing people together, whether through hospitality, storytelling or simply creating memorable experiences around a great drink. He is passionate about bar and restaurant culture, the creativity of the hospitality industry and the relationships that make the world of hospitality so unique.
Outside of the industry, Federico spends most of his time running, playing basketball or searching for the perfect espresso. Whether it’s a marathon training session, a late-night bar conversation or discovering a creative new cocktail, he is always drawn to experiences that bring people together and create stories worth sharing over a drink.
Jake Down, Distild Drinks Studio
Jake Down is a multi-award-winning bartender and beverage consultant specialising in world-class cocktail programs, hospitality experiences and beverage strategy.
With more than 15 years in the hospitality industry, Jake has managed award-winning bars across Australia and London, building a reputation for blending creativity with operational excellence. Through his company, Distild Drinks Studio, he works with hotels, restaurants, rooftop venues and hospitality groups to create elevated beverage programs, streamline service systems and deliver memorable guest experiences.
Jake’s work focuses on creating drinks that are both innovative and approachable, while improving efficiency, profitability and team performance behind the bar. His expertise spans menu development, bar operations, staff training and broader hospitality strategy.