Full Interview with Thomas Hutchins
Thomas Hutchins Photo by Allan Yeh
<Part Two>
Tom’s Journey
What inspired you to compete in the World Brewers Cup, and how has it shaped your perspective on coffee?
”Competing in coffee had been a long-term goal for me, especially after working closely with specialty coffee roasters and immersing myself in the community. Watching world champions like Matt Winton and Australian champions like Carlos Escobar inspired me to take on the challenge myself. My journey took a pivotal turn when I joined Code Black Coffee at a Barista Trainer at the Roastery HQ in Brunswick, Melbourne. This move provided me with the essential resources and support. With a background in theater and public presenting, crafting a presentation and performing in front of a crowd felt like a natural fit—it just all came together.”
Photo by Allan Yeh
Can you share your most memorable moment from the 2024 World Brewers Cup?
”There are so many highlights. The peak was when it was announced we were in the top 6. Tetsu Kasuya asking for a selfie, reconnecting with my good friend and 2024 World Champion Martin Wölfl, and meeting Patrik Rolf on stage, were all incredible moments. Sharing coffee with 2022 World Champion Sherry was so special, as was hanging out with Shaun Liew and Team Malaysia, and connecting with champions from all over the world. These interactions reinforced the sense of community that makes the coffee world so unique.”
Thomas and Martin Wölfl. Photo by Allan Yeh
Preparation & Challenges
How do you approach preparing for a competition of this scale?
”It all comes down to meticulous planning and collaboration. Breaking preparation into monthly, weekly, daily, and even hourly segments ensures I stay on track with key milestones. For example, decisions like selecting the competition coffee, timing the first full run-through, choosing the music, and practicing compulsory rounds all have set deadlines. This structured approach, combined with delegation and collaboration, helps manage what can otherwise feel like an overwhelming process. I also create competition-like situations and rehearse it all like a dance. The first run-throughs are always embarrassing, clunky, and hard—but you can’t run before you can walk!”
Photo by Allan Yeh
What were the biggest hurdles you faced while competing internationally?
”One of the biggest challenges is adapting to the power differences in different countries. This logistical detail might seem minor, but it can disrupt your equipment calibration and preparation process if not accounted for. We had to find kettles, a grinder, and a roasting machine upon arrival in Chicago, which was no small feat. Traveling from the other side of the planet comes with many challenges, including multiple equipment breakages during the flight, and managing our sleep schedule and eating habits was difficult.”
Brewers Cup Insights
What distinguishes the Brewers Cup from other coffee competitions?
”The Brewers Cup is unique in its simplicity: coffee, water, and nothing else. It features two distinct rounds. The "open service" round allows competitors to bring their own coffee and showcase their brewing. The "compulsory" round, on the other hand, gives every competitor the same coffee, challenging them to brew it to the best of their ability within 45 minutes for a blind sensory assessment. This combination of simplicity, creativity, and technical precision sets the Brewers Cup apart.”
What qualities or skills make a great competitor?
”I noticed several personality trends backstage at the World Brewers Cup in Chicago. Everyone was humble, curious, and open-minded. Apart from that, a great competitor understands the rules inside and out, has a strong team, and knows how to prioritize their time effectively. Being comfortable talking on stage and having a genuine understanding of coffee and extraction are also essential qualities.”
Global Perspective
Do you think the Brewers Cup is evolving to be more inclusive for smaller coffee communities?
”The introduction of the ASCA Community Cup is a great example of how competitions are becoming more accessible in Australia. By reducing costs for competitors and limiting the use of equipment to sponsored gear, these events have become more financially feasible for smaller communities.”
How important is it for smaller nations to maintain representation at these global events?
”Representation is crucial. It ensures diverse voices are heard and helps to highlight unique coffee practices that might otherwise go unnoticed. The World Brewers Cup should celebrate the world of brewers, inclusive of all nations. Diversity breeds innovation.”
Financial & Logistical Challenges
Sponsorship plays a crucial role in these events. How have you seen it impact competitions like the Brewers Cup?
”Competitions are only possible due to sponsorships. Sponsorships not only help fund these events but are mutually beneficial for the brands, allowing them to align with excellence and community. Before I won Australia in 2023, I had to buy all equipment for myself, with some assistance from my employer. After winning, or with a healthy social media following, it's more common for brands to offer equipment for use in a competition or in exchange for a social media story/post.”
What cost-effective strategies could smaller countries adopt to sustain their national competitions?
”Smaller nations could focus on fostering local partnerships, leveraging social media to raise awareness, and streamlining event formats to reduce costs while maintaining high standards.”
New Zealand’s Role
Given New Zealand’s history in the Brewers Cup, what advice would you offer for reintroducing the event?
”Focus on cultivating a strong sense of community and mentorship within the local coffee scene. Providing accessible training programs and encouraging collaboration between cafes, roasters, and sponsors can help reignite enthusiasm. You need six competitors to host a certified competition. Reaching out to top competitors in the region through direct engagement and encouragement can make a significant difference.”
How can smaller coffee communities balance competition challenges with limited resources?
”Prioritize inclusivity and resource-sharing. Offering communal practice spaces or pooled resources can lower barriers for participants while still fostering high-quality competition.”
Future Vision
What impact do you think national competitions like the Brewers Cup have on the specialty coffee industry?
”National competitions play a vital role in driving innovation, showcasing local talent, and elevating the overall quality of specialty coffee. They inspire professionals to refine their skills. Each competition cycle has pushed me and Code Black Coffee to refine, streamline, and innovate many processes, from roasting expertise and quality control to brewing and service.”
Photo by Allan Yeh
What advice would you give to aspiring competitors who want to reach the world stage?
”Reach out to your representative body and get involved. Volunteer for existing competitions, express interest in competing, and sign up. It’s never the perfect time, and you will always have an excuse why next time will be better. I promise you will learn so much and grow both professionally and personally. Ask for help, engage with the community, and build something special.”
Photo by Allan Yeh
Written by: Jana Kettnerova & Thomas Hutchins
Published on: 17.01.2025
Published by: Ffocee Coffee Roasters Blog
Location: Wanaka, New Zealand