Kirrily Waldhorn
Australia’s First Lady of Beer & Craft Beer Advocate
Kirrily Waldhorn, the original Beer Diva, coined “Australia’s First Lady of Beer”, is not your stereotypical beer presenter. With a sharp wit and deep knowledge of her craft, Kirrily has appeared on radio, television and in the press talking about everything from the ancient history of beer to beer gastronomy, all while enthusiastically busting beer myths (and there are plenty). Her mission is to rewrite the story of beer in Australia, encouraging people to pour a fine porter at the dinner table, instead of a fine pinot.
With more than 17 years’ experience in the Australian beer industry, Kirrily has cemented her place in Australia's beer history. She is the Editor of BeerStyle, where her reviews pair beer with music, fashion and art to engage readers on a sensory level. She is also a highly respected beer judge, regularly judging the Australian International Beer Awards, and has been invited to judge internationally, including at the Great British Beer Festival in the UK as part of the Champion Beer of Britain panel. Kirrily can also be seen hosting beer masterclasses at food and beer festivals across Australia – and even presented a beer stage show at The Sydney Opera House!
A passionate educator, Kirrily founded Beer Diva, which delivers out-of-the-ordinary beer events and has developed a dedicated training arm specialising in beer service and appreciation. To date, Beer Diva has trained more than 3,000 bar staff, all taught how to pour the perfect pot. Kirrily also works closely with Dan Murphy’s, providing beer expertise across consumer-facing platforms including their Beer Discovery Guide, Buyer’s Guides, online content and radio activations.
Never afraid to get her hands dirty, Kirrily has brewed collaboratively on many occasions and has been actively involved in the creation of over 10 commercially released beers in Australia. Now a highly sought-after MC and keynote speaker, she brings warmth, humour and insight to every stage, speaking on topics ranging from the craft beer revolution and changing Australian tastes to her experience thriving as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry. As The Beer Diva, Kirrily is thoroughly entertaining, fiercely knowledgeable, and a truly passionate advocate for beer and the Australian beer industry.