CEO Update - June 2025

26 Jun 2025

Melbourne Showgrounds has been transformed into a world-class judging venue as the 2025 Melbourne Royal Australian International Spirits Awards prepares to welcome an expert panel of judges from across the globe.

As the nation’s premier and largest spirits competition, the Awards celebrate the full spectrum of the industry - from small-batch craft spirits to large-scale innovations - recognising excellence through a meticulous and robust benchmarking process.

A total of 48 trophies will be awarded, including 17 major trophies and 31 category trophies, such as Champion Australian Distiller, Champion Victorian Distiller, and two new honours: Champion International Distiller and Champion Gypsy Distiller.

Evaluation is based on appearance, aroma, flavour and overall impression, considering both technical quality and consumer appeal.

This year attracted 219 exhibitors, with spirits to be judged by 46 judges - including head judge Shaun Byrne and Gin Chair is Seb Costello.

Thank you to all entrants for participating and we trust you gain valuable insights and benefits from benchmarking your products against the best in the world, sincere thanks to the expert judges who make this rigorous blind evaluation possible.

The culmination of all the hard work will be celebrated at the Melbourne Royal Australian International Spirits Awards Trophy Presentation, held in the Victoria Pavilion on Thursday 15 May.

Indulge in a curated experience featuring gourmet food and the opportunity to taste the Champion Spirits as the highly anticipated 2025 winners are announced. Tickets available here. 

Melbourne Royal Competitions Open 

The countdown to the 2025 Melbourne Royal Show has started! With less than 100 days to go until opening day on Thursday 25 September, planning has focused on creating a rewarding, inclusive experience for all - exhibitors, competitors and visitors alike.

A sincere thanks to the dedicated members of our Agriculture and Leisure Section Committees, who generously volunteer their time to help shape and deliver high-quality competitions.

Their ongoing support and expert advice are invaluable to Melbourne Royal.

With all entries now open, one of the most rewarding ways to get involved in the Melbourne Royal Show is by entering one of the many Melbourne Royal Blue Ribbon Competitions - Beef Cattle, Sheep, Fleece, Alpacas, Horses in Action, Woodchop, Poultry, Dogs, and Art, Craft and Cookery.

Don’t miss your chance to showcase your skills, products or animals on one of Australia’s most prestigious stages - there is nothing like the thrill and excitement of winning a coveted Melbourne Royal Blue Ribbon.

Enter now and be part of the tradition, excitement and community of the Melbourne Royal Show.

Melbourne Showgrounds 

FutureAg Expo is coming back to Melbourne Showgrounds in August 2025, bringing together the latest innovations in agricultural machinery, automation and sustainable farming.

This dynamic event connects farmers, industry leaders and technology experts to shape the future of agriculture. Learn more here.

Other events at Melbourne Showgrounds include: 

  • Model Train Show (2–3 Aug): A favourite for collectors and families alike.

  • Vintage & Modern Toy Fair (3 Aug): Toys from every era under one roof.

  • National 4x4 Outdoors Show (22–24 Aug): All things 4WD, camping, and outdoor adventure.

  • Hot Rod & Street Machine Show (30–31 Aug): Custom cars and automotive culture 

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