The Western Region Barista Championships were held over the weekend and we're incredibly proud to share that our WA Account Managers, Lena and Vicko, finished first and second respectively.
For both competitors, the result was the culmination of months of preparation, practice runs, coffee tasting, recipe development and plenty of support from the people around them.
For Lena, competition is about more than the score sheet.
"It’s really fun as soon as it’s done," she said. "The coffee community coming together, seeing all the familiar faces and getting amongst it is quite rewarding."
Her winning routine explored the importance of community throughout coffee. From groups of producers working together to improve coffee quality, through to the long-term relationships that connect farmers, roasters and cafés, the presentation highlighted how collaboration shapes the coffee we enjoy every day.
Vicko entered this year's competition determined to improve on his fourth-place finish in 2025.
"I wanted to prove to myself that with better preparation and proper training I could make the podium," he said.
His presentation reflected both his Indonesian heritage and his approach to hospitality, creating a warm and welcoming experience for the judges.
As with any competition, not everything goes exactly to plan. Competitors spend months practising, but must adapt quickly when faced with unfamiliar equipment, water and conditions on the competition stage.
Fortunately, coffee people are pretty good at problem solving.
Both Lena and Vicko were quick to acknowledge the support they received throughout the process.
"It's a team effort to do well in competitions," said Lena. "People source great coffee, roast it, organise equipment, taste coffees, watch run-throughs, give feedback and offer emotional support."
The result reflects the work of many people across Five Senses, from sourcing and roasting through to training, operations and the wider team who spent countless hours tasting coffee and helping refine routines.
For Vicko, the outcome was made even more meaningful by sharing the experience with a colleague.
"We probably saw each other's routines the most and helped each other with preparation," he said. "We know how hard we worked and being a close second feels good as well."
With the regional championships now complete, Lena will begin preparing for the Australian Barista Championships in November, where she will represent Western Australia on the national stage.
Congratulations Lena and Vicko. We're looking forward to seeing what's next.
