Inside the 2025 Merlo Barista Championships

Barista training is at the heart of everything we do. From espresso extraction to latte art, our team undergoes hands-on, high-intensity training to ensure every cup meets the Merlo gold standard. But once a year, it’s not just about making great coffee – it’s about doing it under pressure.

The Ultimate Test of Skill

The Merlo Barista Championships are our annual celebration of the passion, precision, and pride that fuel our coffee culture. It’s a high-stakes showdown where our most talented baristas go head-to-head for the ultimate bragging rights. And in 2025, the pressure was higher than ever.

Held on Tuesday 15 July at Merlo Coffee Training HQ, eight finalists stepped up to the machines for a challenge that tested their skill, speed and stamina. Using our Private Signature Blend, each barista had just 15 minutes to:

• Adjust a miscalibrated grinder
• Pour 4 lattes, 4 mezzos and 4 short blacks
• Maintain a spotless workstation
• Deliver consistently exceptional coffee – from crema to cup.

Every movement was judged. Every shot mattered. This was pressure under the portafilter!

It’s More Than Just Coffee

The championships aren’t just about who can steam milk the fastest – they’re a celebration of the craft, creativity, and community behind every brew. It’s where technique meets passion, and where our baristas push themselves to be even better.

“These events showcase the incredible talent and dedication of our team,” said Lou Shaw, Retail Operations Manager. “It’s about growth, pride, and pushing the limits of what we can do behind the machine.”

And Our Winners Are...

🥇 1st place: Jenna Underhill – Coorparoo Cafe (returning champ!)
🥈 2nd place: Tommy Whitehouse – Southport Cafe
🥉 3rd place: Ash Parkinson – Fortitude Valley Cafe

L-R: 1st place winner Jenna Underhill, 2nd place winner Tommy Whitehouse, 3rd place winner Ash Parkinson.

Huge shoutout to our other finalists:

• Ethan Fung (Southport)
• Lucy Mazzotta (Bowen Hills)
• Rebecca Hopwood (Victoria Point)
• Saskia Goldman (Fortitude Valley)
• Amelia Donovan (Toowong)

Plus, a special mention to the UQ team, who took home the 'Store Spirit' prize – $200 towards their social fund! Lastly, we couldnt have done it without our talended judges, for lending their expertise and tuned-in palate.

Until next year, happy brewing!