In June, Espolon Tequila gathered 11 likeminded and creative bartenders together in Hobart to attend Dark Mofo, the winter festival of arts and culture known for being a little subversive and provocative. They discussed creativity, swapped ideas, and found inspiration in the depths of winter — and now they’re sharing what they found.

It’s important to ‘get out of your comfort zone’, says Alex Kingdom

QT Gold Coast, Surfers Paradise

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“There’s something radical in making something beautiful,” says Andie Bulley

The Waratah, Darlinghurst

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Bertie Boekemann: “Don’t be afraid to fail.”

Gimlet, Melbourne

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Charlie Hunter: “Creative problem solving is huge in hospo.”

Dark Blue, Fortitude Valley

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Elliot Pascoe: “Creativity does better with boundaries.”

Honto, Fortitude Valley

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When it comes to drinks inspiration, Georgia Gresham is inspired by people

Dark Red, Fortitude Valley

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Jay Cozma on why getting it wrong makes better drinks

Old Mate's Place, Sydney

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Jesse Kourmouzis: “Go out and try things, test things.”

Sleepy's, Carlton North

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If there is a way, Nance Liong will find it

PS40, Sydney

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“You can take inspiration from anywhere,” says Rachel Abou

1806, Melbourne

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Nostalgia inspires the drinks of Roy Das Neves

Modern Alchemist, Melbourne

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