Descripción
AWDA Conference 2026 Connect. Learn. Grow. Join us in Melbourne for the annual AWDA Conference — bringing together women in the distilling industry for connection, learning, and real-world insights you can take back to your business. Who It’s For This conference is designed for women who want to: Build meaningful relationships within the industry Learn from experienced operators and specialists Gain practical tools to grow their business or career What You’ll Experience Monday – Distillery Tours & Experiences(We strongly encourage all attendees to travel with us on the bus, as it provides a great opportunity for introductions and getting to know one another.) Spend the day behind the scenes at some of Australia’s leading distilleries: Four Pillars Distillery (with lunch included) Brogan's Way Distillery Starward Distillery Casual dinner (included) and drinks to end the day Expect a mix of: Distillery tours and experiences Insights into production, brand building, and cellar door experiences A hands-on cocktail workshop Group meals and relaxed networking throughout the day Tuesday – Conference Sessions & Workshops A full day of practical, engaging sessions including: Confidence in Leadership with Rachael Downie Export Readiness workshop with Austrade Translating your brand at events, tastings and distillery door with VIC Distilled Ambassador, Tayla Kendall Sensory & Tasting Session with Aruni Vaswani and Sarah Andrew Industry Connections with sessions from key industry contacts Spirit Share – bring a bottle and share your story with the group *This is a tentative schedule and is subject to change* Event Snapshot 📍 Location: Melbourne, VIC - Conference held at Starward Distillery in Port Melbourne 📅 Dates: 19–20 October 2026 We recommend arriving Sunday 18 October for informal welcome drinks to kick things off! What’s Included Your ticket includes: Distillery tours and experiences on Monday Bus transport between venues on Monday Lunch and dinner on Monday All conference sessions and workshops on Tuesday Refreshments, lunch and dinner on Tuesday Ticket Options AWDA Members: $250 Non-Members: $400 (includes 12-month AWDA membership) Accommodation We recommend staying at Quincy Hotel Melbourne, conveniently located for conference activities and transport. We have secured a conference rate via this link - Book Now