In the glittering realm of Australia's bar industry, where the air is filled with the scent of bitters and citrus, and the clink of ice against crystal echoes like applause, there exists an event that eclipses all others. The Australian Bartender Awards is not merely a ceremony; it is an ascension, a lofty altitude where only the finest mixologists and bar virtuosos dare to soar. This year, Trolley'd had the honour of sponsoring the prestigious Regional Bar category and ensuring every guest's arrival was greeted with a drink that was as unforgettable as a perfect landing.
Setting the Scene: Doltone House
The venue, Doltone House, stands as a beacon of sophistication on the Sydney waterfront, its elegant facade reflecting the opulence within. As industry titans, rising stars, and aficionados streamed through the doors, they were met with an unexpected yet delightful sight. A fleet of Trolley'd mobile bars stood ready for takeoff, each one a meticulously restored aviation trolley, now a vessel for liquid alchemy.
A Toast to Excellence: The Trolley'd Signature Style
Trolley'd isn't just a mobile bar service; it's a manifestation of ingenuity, sustainability, and flair. Our mission is to elevate the mundane to the extraordinary, to transform the act of drinking into an experience. And what better stage to showcase our prowess than at the Australian Bartender Awards? The guests, each an expert in their own right, were treated to a veritable symphony of cocktails, each crafted to reflect the spirit of our sponsorship partners.
The Cocktail Menu: Twists on Classics
Our bartenders, the unsung heroes of the evening, had prepared a thousand of each signature cocktail, a feat as impressive as any aerial manoeuvre. These were not mere drinks but carefully constructed homages to the classic cocktails that have defined the industry, each with a unique Trolley'd twist.
- Auchentoshon & Bowmore Penicillin with Native Ginger & Rooftop Honey: This robust cocktail took the smoky depth of Auchentoshon and Bowmore and elevated it with the spicy zing of native ginger and the sweet complexity of rooftop honey. A drink that was as comforting as a warm blanket on a long-haul flight.
- Belvedere Finger Lime Gimlet: The classic Gimlet was given a refreshing twist with the addition of finger lime, a native Australian citrus that brought a burst of tangy zest to each sip. It was a drink that sparkled like the stars on a clear night flight.
- Havana Club Especial Cuba Libre with Cinnamon Myrtle, Anise Myrtle, and House-Made Tepache on Tap: This vibrant cocktail combined the smoothness of Havana Club Especial with the unique flavours of cinnamon myrtle and anise myrtle, all enhanced by the effervescent house-made tepache. It was a tropical escape in a glass, perfect for those with a taste for adventure.
- Herradura Blanco Lemon Myrtle Tommy's Margarita: The timeless Margarita was reimagined with Herradura Blanco and the aromatic essence of lemon myrtle. The result was a drink that was both familiar and exotic, like a well-loved travel route with new, exciting detours.
- Pre-Bottled Woodford Reserve Old Fashioned with Illawarra Plum: Our pre-bottled Old Fashioned featured the rich, smooth character of Woodford Reserve, complemented by the tart sweetness of Illawarra plum. It was a drink that spoke of tradition and innovation, much like the bar industry itself.
Serving the Elite: A Test of Skill and Stamina
Serving a thousand of each cocktail to an audience of discerning professionals was no small task. It required precision, speed, and an unerring commitment to quality—qualities that Trolley'd embodies in every service. Our team, dressed in pilot-themed attire, navigated the room with the grace and efficiency of a well-oiled flight crew, ensuring that each guest was attended to with the utmost care.
The bartenders we served were not just any guests; they were the cream of the crop, the individuals who set the standards and trends in the industry. To impress them was to earn a badge of honour, and Trolley'd rose to the occasion with aplomb.
Sponsoring Excellence: The Regional Bar Category
Our sponsorship of the Regional Bar category was more than a mere business transaction; it was a commitment to fostering excellence in the industry. Regional bars are the unsung heroes of the Australian bar scene, often pioneering trends and pushing the boundaries of creativity. By sponsoring this category, we aimed to shine a spotlight on these trailblazers, recognizing their contributions and encouraging their continued innovation.
Trolley'd: The Future of Mobile Bars
As the evening progressed and the awards were handed out, it became clear that Trolley'd had left an indelible mark on the event. Our presence was not just about serving drinks; it was about making a statement. Trolley'd is not just capable of catering to large-scale events; we excel at it. We have the expertise, the creativity, and the passion to turn any event into an unforgettable experience.
The Australian Bartender Awards was a testament to our capabilities, a showcase of what we can achieve. It was an opportunity to demonstrate that we can stand shoulder to shoulder with the best in the industry and, indeed, elevate the experience.
A Night to Remember
As the night drew to a close, the atmosphere at Doltone House was electric with camaraderie and celebration. The drinks had flowed, the awards had been presented, and the bar industry had once again proven its resilience and creativity. Trolley'd was proud to have been a part of such a significant event, to have contributed to the joy and recognition of so many talented individuals.
In the end, the true measure of our success was not in the number of drinks served, but in the smiles, the conversations, and the connections made. It was in the knowledge that we had played a part in honouring the very best of the industry, in celebrating the passion and dedication that goes into every great bar and every great cocktail.
Final Approach: Looking to the Horizon
As we prepare to touch down from this incredible journey, we look forward to what lies ahead. Trolley'd is committed to continuing our mission of delivering exceptional mobile bar experiences, of pushing the boundaries of what is possible. We are inspired by the bartenders we met, the stories we heard, and the cocktails we shared.
The Australian Bartender Awards was just one chapter in our story, but it was a significant one. It was a night where we took flight, where we soared to new heights, and where we proved that Trolley'd is a name to be reckoned with in the world of mobile bars.
So here’s to the future, to new adventures, and to the endless possibilities that await. At Trolley'd, we're ready to take off, to chart new courses, and to bring our unique brand of magic to events across the country and beyond.
About Trolley'd
Trolley'd is Australia's premier mobile bar service, specialising in creating unforgettable experiences with our uniquely designed aviation trolleys. We pride ourselves on our commitment to sustainability, using locally foraged ingredients and supporting local producers. Whether it’s a corporate event, a wedding, or a festival, Trolley'd is ready to elevate your event to new heights.
For more information, visit our website and follow us on social media to stay updated on our latest adventures and offerings.