Geelong bartenders listed among nation’s most influential

TWO of Geelong’s favourite mixologists have been named among the country’s 100 most influential bartenders, venue operators and party-starters by Australian Bartender Magazine.

Hospitality veteran Gorge Camorra and award-winning 18th Amendment Bar bartender Ana Mitchell have taken their place on the list alongside some of the industry’s biggest names, including bar manager and YouTube channel host Cara Devine and Rude Boy owner Khayla Massie.

The list, first launched in 2009 and released every two years, celebrates the impact of the industry’s movers, shakers and innovators, and highlights the individuals who are influencing the direction of the industry.

Mr Camorra, who owns the Camorra Bar Group – comprising 18th Amendment Bar, Manhattan Bar and Non Disclosure Bar – is no stranger to Australian Bartenders Magazine’s 100 most influential list, having been named among the industry’s elite since at least 2019.

He said it was an honour to be included in the 2024 list and celebrated the magazine’s acknowledgement of Ms Mitchell.

“I think it’s a great recognition for the 18th Amendment Bar and the Camorra Bar Group, especially considering that two of us, from a regional city like Geelong, are in the top 100 among the other amazing hospitality influencers in Australia.”

For rapid up-and-comer Mitchell, the listing is her first inclusion.

“I feel really grateful to be on a list with such massive names in the industry, especially next to Gorge,” she said.

“It’s an honour to represent the Camorra Bar Group on this national level, and it’s always a great feeling to have all your efforts and passion recognised on such a massive scale.”

It comes as the Camorra Bar Group celebrates a raft of awards nominations across both the Australian Bar Awards – with winners to be crowned next week – and the Australian Liquor Industry Awards – to be announced in October.

Camorra Bar Group’s operations manager Damien Kos-Beckwith celebrated the team’s achievements.

“We are incredibly proud to still be a name on the lips of the industry’s elite, seven years after opening,” he said.

“These nominations are a testament to the hard work, creativity and passion of our entire team.

“It’s an honour to be recognised alongside such talented peers, and we’re excited for what the future holds.”