WBC finalists are in

This is just a quick little update to say congratulations to all the baristas who have made the finals:

1. HUNGARY—ATTILA MOLNAR
2. UNITED KINGDOM—GWILYM DAVIES
3. CANADA—SAMMY PICCOLO

4. UNITED STATES—MICHAEL PHILLIPS

5. IRELAND—COLIN HARMON

6. REPUBLIC OF KOREA—LEE JONG HOON

It's very upsetting that the Aussie competitor, Tim Adams, while putting on a valiant effort, unfortunately didn't make the top six.  And the same goes for Carl Sara, New Zealand's competitor (we all know how much we aussies like to claim NZ'ers)

Having said that, I for one am very excited to see  Korea and Hungary there for the  very first time.  I think it just goes to show how much the specialty coffee industry is growing.  And how far and wide specialty coffee, and passionate baristas have spread.

Be sure to check out http://worldbaristachampionship.org/2009/ for the official blog or get following the official tweet, @WBC2009

Bar 9 Website up and running

Well, sort of.  It's a public beta version up for your scrutiny.  The official site won't be up until the cafe is (no, there's still no word on an official date) and we've had a chance to snap a few more photo's and upload some more exciting content.

So for now if I could ask you to have a look and post some feedback (either via the contact details @ the site, or via this blog).  I'm far more interested in negative feedback than positive, so feel free to let loose.  Also, if it displays wierd in your browser please let me know (should be blackberry/iphone friendly).

Anyway, the link is http://www.bar9.com.au