After an incredibly tough year in the hospitality industry, it’s about time for a celebration. To this end, Women in Hospitality, the not-for-profit dedicated to supporting the career development of women working in hospitality, has announced a new program of networking events, which take a firm focus on optimistic developments within the industry.

For International Women’s Day, Women in Hospitality will be hosting a series of events around the country that celebrate achievements within the craft distilling movement. Although there are only a comparatively small number of women involved in this movement, these events will spotlight some of the reigning pioneers, and offer the opportunity to network with and learn from them.

The International Women’s Day Lunch in New South Wales will take place at Bloodwood Newtown on Sunday 7 March, and will include lunch, cocktails and spirits tasting. There will also be a speaker line-up of women who have been instrumental to the growth and success of the Australian distilling movement, including Alarna Doherty from Tara Distillery, Nowra; Ally Ayres from Karu Distillery, Grose Vale; Cara Daunton, head distiller at Young Henrys, Newtown; and Lisa Truscott from Archie Distilling Co., Botany.

Those who can’t attend the event in person are invited to participate in the virtual event later that day. Ticket-holders for the virtual event will receive a gift pack featuring products from various Australian distilleries, to sample as part of the virtual experience. They will also get to hear from the same speakers as the Sydney event.

In Queensland, Women in Hospitality will host an International Women’s Day evening at Stone & Wood Brewery in Brisbane. The event, which will take place on Monday 8 March, will include drinks, food, a Q&A panel and plenty of networking opportunities. There will also be a silent auction on the night to raise funds for White Jacket Effect, a charity organisation dedicated to improving wellbeing amongst hospitality workers.

Later this month, Women in Hospitality will also launch their mentorship program for 2021, to welcome the next intake of mentors and mentees, and to graduate their 2020 partners. More information will appear on the Women in Hospitality website in the coming weeks.