The Women of Beerfarm: Voices, Leadership and the Work Still to Do

At Beerfarm, International Women’s Day isn’t a box we tick. It’s a moment to pause and properly acknowledge the women who shape our business every single day.

For International Women’s Day, we wanted to share a few voices from within the team while also recognising the many others who help build this place every day.

Women work across nearly every corner of Beerfarm. Not everyone wanted to be profiled for this piece, and that’s fair enough. Brewing, hospitality, and business are team sports, and plenty of the most important contributions happen well away from the spotlight. But the voices we did capture reflect many of the shared experiences, perspectives, and ambitions across the team.

For Codie Spruce, Beerfarm’s Hospitality & Marketing Administrator, or, as she describes it, a “bit of an everything gal” the biggest lesson for women entering the industry is simple: don’t shrink yourself to fit someone else’s idea of what you should be.

“Be unapologetically yourself, even if you’re ‘a bit much.’ Especially if you’re a bit much. You should never feel like you have to shrink parts of yourself to fit someone else’s model of what a woman in hospitality or brewing is supposed to look or sound like.”

An absolute powerhouse in the hospitality side of Beerfarm, Codie’s unapologetically herself, and this has been a huge part of her ethos for thriving.

“This industry rewards personality, resilience, and authenticity. The moment you stop trying to dial yourself down to be more palatable is the moment you start actually leading.”

She’s also seen progress over the years, particularly when it comes to leadership opportunities and respect within operational roles, but says the industry still has work to do.

“Structural support for women still needs work; let’s discuss maternity leave, flexible arrangements, and better recognition of the physical realities women navigate. If we want long-term retention of talented women in this industry, the support systems need to evolve with us.”

In Beerfarm’s marketing team, Creative Lead Jenny Tang brings the brand’s visual identity to life from can artwork to campaign concepts.

Her advice to women entering the industry is refreshingly straightforward.

“Be yourself, follow your intuition, and find your allies.”

Jenny says it’s been inspiring to see more women stepping into opportunities across brewing and hospitality.

“It’s been a real inspiration seeing other women getting the opportunities to develop their craft and passions. We just need more of it.”

For Jenny, the goal for the future is clear: workplaces where ideas are respected and creativity can flourish.

“A workplace where their ideas are valued, and their creativity is celebrated, in a safe, respectful, and inclusive space.”

Overseeing the day-to-day operations of Beerfarm is Emma Locke, whose role spans production, sales, marketing, hospitality, and compliance, while also making sure the business is positioned for long-term growth.

Her advice for women entering the industry draws from years of experience navigating leadership roles.

“Know your worth. You did not get where you are by accident, and your perspective is valuable. You deserve to be in that room, at that table, or having that conversation, never let anyone make you feel like you don’t, and never be afraid to ask for what you want. Our industry is stronger when it reflects more voices, experiences, and leadership styles."

Emma also believes one of the biggest hurdles women face is hesitation, something she admits she once struggled with herself.

“Grab every opportunity you can. I can guarantee you that the men in the room are not questioning if they deserve opportunities or are ready for them. There is enough space for all of us to thrive.”

She points to organisations like the Pink Boots Society Australia, of which she has just become president, as examples of the industry working to build stronger networks and opportunities for women in brewing.

But, as Emma puts it, progress often comes with a “very big but.”

“Women+ remain underrepresented in leadership positions. Areas where I think we can make the biggest impact moving forward are transparent career pathways, mentorship opportunities, a focus on workplace safety and wellness, and businesses committing to clear policies, training opportunities, flexible working arrangements, and equitable pay.”

Ultimately, she hopes future generations of women won’t feel like outsiders in the industry.

“I hope they don’t feel like the only one in the room, where representation is normal, voices are heard and valued, and their success is celebrated and rewarded.”

While brewing and hospitality often take the spotlight, Beerfarm relies on strong financial foundations to survive and grow.

That’s where Natasha Earle, Beerfarm’s Company Accountant, comes in. Her role covers everything from payroll and accounts to budgeting, analysis, and compliance, and in a small finance team, that means wearing a lot of hats.

“Because we’re a very small finance team, my role is very hands-on and I work closely with other staff across all departments.”

Natasha believes women entering the industry shouldn’t underestimate how valuable their skills are, particularly in areas like finance, governance, and strategic planning.

“Speak up, ask questions, and get comfortable being visible in rooms where you might be one of only a few women. Back yourself and don’t underestimate how valuable your skills are.”

Like others on the team, she sees progress happening, particularly in recognising the importance of diversity across all areas of business, not just brewing and hospitality.

But representation and flexibility remain key areas for improvement.

“Retention of talented women through different life stages is just as important as bringing them into the industry in the first place.”

For Beerfarm, the work is ongoing, to listen, adapt, and create the best environments for current and future teams.

While there are only a few voices featured here, the impact of a much larger group of women is woven through every part of Beerfarm. These women help keep the place running every day, from the brewery floor to the venue, the office, and beyond. 

Cheers to the phenomenal women of Beerfarm and the future we’re building within this industry we all love.