By James Wells
SYDNEY: To reinforce its commitment to the local espresso machine category, Sunbeam recently sponsored the 2007 Australian Barista Championships which featured judging by the brand’s coffee ambassador, Paul Bassett.
Held last month in Adelaide, the event was organised by the AustralAsian Specialty Coffee Association (AASCA) and attended by 2003 World Barista Champion Paul Bassett and Sunbeam’s national coffee training manager, Greg Davis.
Bassett, who has worked closely with Sunbeam in the development of its espresso machines and grinders, was a sensory judge at the state finals and will also be a judge at the World Barista Championship in Tokyo later this year.
Sunbeam’s sponsorship included the contribution of prizes from the Sunbeam Café Series range, as well as financial support to send the winner to the world final in Japan. Judges awarded Scott Callaghan of New South Wales as 2007 Australian Barista Champion.
Callaghan, who is also a World Latte Art champion will receive free entry plus airfare and travel allowance to the 2007 World Barista Championship in Tokyo, which will be held from 29 July until 2 August.
The Australian Barista Championship was preceded by a series of state and regional finals, which also saw a number of Sunbeam’s own baristas recognised. Douglas Bolzon of South Australia was the state winner competing in the national final, while four other Sunbeam baristas competed at state level. Sunbeam’s team of professional baristas lead Sunbeam’s Coffee Appreciation Courses around the country and are constantly developing their own skills and knowledge.
“Sunbeam’s strong association with coffee made this sponsorship a natural fit,” said Sunbeam marketing manager – kitchen appliances, Damian Court.
“Sunbeam has common goals with the AASCA. We’re both enthusiastic about coffee and educating coffee lovers about how to get the best results. Grinders are an integral part of creating the perfect cup and the Australian Barista Championships reinforce this message,” said Court.