Steve joined the Merlo roasting team 2012. Over the years his passion for coffee roasting has grown exponentially, and he now works across all three Mero roasting sites, using both small and large roasting machines.
Starting in the Fortitude Valley Retail store and roastery, Steve then split his time between our Fortitude Valley Roaster and Bowen Hills Roaster.
Steve worked with the original 120kg Merlo roaster, affectionately known as 'Rosa'. Rosa the roaster was so much part of the Merlo family that in 2014 Steve was present for Rosa's very own christening!
Ewan began his coffee journey in mid-2025, driven by a genuine passion for coffee and a curiosity for the craft of roasting. From the beginning, he has been motivated by learning the foundations of quality coffee and understanding the care and precision required at every stage of the process.
Ewan brings a focused, detail-oriented approach to his work, with an emphasis on consistency and showcasing the best qualities of each coffee. He takes pride in contributing to the work behind the scenes, helping ensure every roast meets the standards customers expect.
Looking ahead, Ewan is excited to continue developing his skills at Merlo Coffee, growing alongside a team that values quality, hard work, and a shared passion for great coffee.
COFFEE OF CHOICE |
Iced long black
Coffee Roaster
DUC PHAM
Duc began his coffee journey in Saigon in 2019, where a part-time role as a barista quickly opened the door to the world of specialty coffee.
After several years honing his skills in Vietnam, Duc settled in Australia in 2024 to continue growing within the industry. His diverse background across multiple coffee roles has given him a deep appreciation for quality, detail, and the many hands involved in bringing great coffee.
"Today, I’m grateful for how far this journey has taken me—from a small coffee bar in Saigon to a new chapter in Australia. I’m passionate about sharing knowledge, supporting others in the industry, and contributing to a community that values craftsmanship, connection, and continuous learning."
COFFEE OF CHOICE |
Iced Long Black
OUR ROASTING FACILITY
In 2021, we constructed the new Merlo state-of-the-art roaster facility. The $3 million workhorse is located atour Eagle Farm warehouse, and is capable of more than just roasting.
It is an all-encompassing solution that creates many efficiencies at all stages of the roasting process, from the storage of green beans to the finished product.
Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.
THE TASTE BENCHMARK Fresh Roasted House Blend vs Supermarket Coffee Commercial warehouse beans sit on grocery shelves for months losing their natural oils. Here is the difference in your morning cup. Extraction & Crema BODY Merlo Espresso: Pulls thick, viscous hazelnut crema packed with...
THE TASTE BENCHMARK Fresh Roasted Private Blend vs Commercial Supermarket Coffee Supermarket coffee beans sit on warehouse pallets and shelves for up to a year, losing their aromatic oils and natural sweetness. Here is why freshly roasted Private delivers an entirely different experience. Flavour...
THE STRENGTH BENCHMARK Fresh Roasted Forza Blend vs Supermarket Coffee Most commercial dark roasts taste burnt and hollow to mask cheap green coffee. Here is how fresh batch roasting and intentional blending change your morning cup. Caffeine Kick & Intensity ENERGY Merlo Forza Blend:...
THE TASTE BENCHMARK Fresh Roasted Riviera Blend vs Commercial Supermarket Coffee Commercial store beans sit on retail shelves for months, causing delicate floral and fruit aromatics to completely oxidise. Here is why fresh split-roasting makes every morning cup remarkable. Aromatic Complexity & Sweetness PROFILE...
THE PURITY BENCHMARK Fresh Roasted Organico vs Supermarket Organic Coffee Many grocery store organic beans are bulk-harvested and sit on shelves for months, tasting woody and flat. Here is the difference true certified ethical roasting brings to your morning cup. Flavour Complexity & Body...