our TEAM

Recognised as one of the founders of Australia’s craft gin and whiskey movements, former lawyer turned Head Distiller, Cameron Syme set up Great Southern Distilling Company in 2004. Prior to this he was researching, volunteering and honing his knowledge of the production of craft spirits, pursuing a long held dream of starting his own distillery. 

Since establishing the company, Cameron has led his distilleries and team to having won over 140 medals and trophies, and has been named Distillery Manager of the Year by Icons of World Whisky. Under his lead the company has also been awarded Western Australian Business of the Year at the Telstra Business Awards in 2017 and previously in 2015 Western Australian Regional Business of the Year. 

Garry has held executive roles across a wide range of industries, including gold mining, iron ore mining, fast moving consumer goods, construction and shipbuilding. He holds degrees in Economics, Finance and eCommerce, and previously had senior international regional supply chain roles at Fonterra. As CEO, Garry oversees a number of departments, in particular production, logistics and wholesale. 

Favourite part of the job? Working in an energetic, growing family-owned company with excellent brands and passionate people, with operations based in regional southern WA where I grew up.

Damon has worked in the hospitality industry for 20 years. He was the General Manager at the Margaret River Tavern for 8 years, before joining our team at the Margaret River Distilling Co.

Favourite part of the job? I love the wonderful products we make! I enjoy being able to spend time with the customers and educate them about our spirits and how to drink them.

Donna started at MRDC in 2015, and is an essential member of the cellar door team. With a wealth of hospitality experience, Donna splits her time between a wide variety of tasks. Donna is also the master chef behind our popular Barrel Aged Sriracha sauce.

Favourite part of the job? I enjoy the variation in my work, and the opportunity to be given new projects (such as the Sriracha).

I have worked on and off in hospitality for over 30 years. The relationships you build with customers in this industry is why I keep being drawn back. I am excited to be part of a team that produces such incredible products and promotes this fantastic part of the world. 

Favourite part of the job? Meeting people from all over the world who love our products!!!

Daniel has over 10 years of experience in Hospitality, Wine, and Spirits within the Perth hospitality scene and brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our Swan Valley Cellar Door.

Favourite part of the job? Being part of a diverse brand with a rich history which allows me to share the stories behind our spirits with our guests. 

John started his career in hospitality, and when he started working at the Albany cellar door, he became very interested in the process behind making great whisky. This set him off on his journey to becoming a distiller. 

Favourite part of the job? I love the challenges and constantly learning about new innovations in the field, as it keeps the work exciting. 

I am an Albany local who found a passion for home brewing beer and trying different whiskies. From there my interests grew to the production of spirits and that has inspired me to become a brewer/distiller at Limeburners.

Favourite part of the job? My favourite part of the job would have to be the entire hands-on experience with great ingredients to produce quality whisky that is local to me.

Helen has extensive sales, marketing, business development and administration experience in tourism, hospitality and more recently in manufacturing. She has a strong customer service centric for both internal and external stakeholders and brings a range of expertise to the administration team.

Favourite part of the job? Whilst I have always enjoyed a good single malt whisky, I love that I became a gin convert on day one! I enjoy learning new product knowledge, and working for these well established, quality, local brands in a dynamic environment with an amazing, friendly, and talented team across 3 exciting venues. Definitely an exciting and challenging role.

Genya has over 25 years experience in finance, administration and customer service. She has worked in several local governments in various roles and is excited to be utilising her skills and knowledge at the company.

Favourite part? Being in a busy and friendly workplace makes the days enjoyable.

Joshua graduated from Murdoch University in 2014 with a Bachelor of Commerce, majoring in Accounting and Finance. He was then employed as a Company Accountant from 2015 through to 2019 for Bergmans Auto Group, where he gained extensive experience in all areas of financial and management accounting. In 2016 Josh commenced the Chartered Accountants program, and in 2019 was fortunate enough to have his graduation at New Zealand House in London, overlooking Trafalgar Square. Upon returning to Australia in late 2019, Josh started his current role as Management Accountant for the Great Southern Distilling Company, which has proven to be very challenging and fulfilling role.

Favourite part of the job? I get to work in a unique industry in the most beautiful part of Western Australia.

Laurane is from Lyon in France, where she worked for Marie Claire magazine for many years, before graduating with a Bachelor and Master's Degree in Marketing and Sales specialising in Luxury Brands and Products and Strategic Management. From there she spent five years in New Zealand and Australia where she then worked as Marketing Coordinator at the Community Resource Centre in Beacon where she was involved in the development and marketing of training, workshops and events.

Favourite part of the job? Learning new things and being busy in a friendly and positive environment. I enjoy being part of a company who grow, support and produce locally.