Foxtrot Unicorn: Perth Bartender Shirley Yeung named in Diageo World Class Bartender of the Year
Diageo World Class is in its 16th year and regarded as the biggest and most influential bartending competition in the world.
This year's Australian finals will bring together eight elite bartenders from across Australia for a one-day cocktail showdown.
Diageo's head of trade advocacy Kate McGraw said Diageo World Class was the ultimate showcase of bartending excellence.
'The Australian competition never fails to inspire.' she said.
'This year's top eight finalists represent the epitome of talent and innovation in the industry. Their mastery, creativity and dedication to the craft of hospitality promise a final round that will be nothing short of extraordinary'.
This is the second year in the competition for Ms Yeung, who is also the co-founder of MixHaus, a not-for-profit group creating opportunities for female and non-binary bartenders nationwide.
Ms Yeung is the only West Australian to make the finals this year, with her other competitors being from Adelaide, Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.
'To represent Perth and stand alongside some of the most creative bartenders in the country? That's a massive honour. I'm soaking up every minute,' she said.
'I'm equal parts buzzing and terrified — in the best way. World Class is the stage for bartenders who want to push boundaries. It's not just about mixing a great drink — it's about storytelling, technique, sustainability and connection.'
'We're done with playing it safe. Guests are asking smarter questions and bartenders are getting bold with local ingredients, ferments, and native botanicals,' she said.
'High-concept drinks in laid-back venues? That's the vibe. What's not hot? Overcomplicating things. No one wants a 12-step cocktail that takes 15 minutes. We're all about flavour, finesse and fun — and that's why I think Perth's energy belongs on the World Class stage.'
The Australian finals will test the bartenders in live challenges involving celebrating coffee culture, creating three custom drinks including one from Tequila Don Julio Minis, and a speed round requiring competitors to craft up to nine classic cocktails using Diageo's premium reserve spirits portfolio.
These competitions will determine who will represent Australia on the global stage in Toronto, Canada, later this year.
The final will be held on June 30 at the Sofitel in Sydney.
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