Café

Grinders Coffee Barista of the Month

Kristy Aylmore

Tuesday, 21 May 2024

CocoBrew Rockhampton is a custom-designed drive-through café that serves delicious barista-made coffee and a selection of light refreshments.

Known for its high-quality coffee and convenient drive-through service. Whether you’re in a hurry or simply craving a great cup of coffee, this spot is worth a visit!

We chat to Head Barista Geena on her tips and tricks of making a delicious coffee.

 


 

Tell us a little bit about you?

I have been working full time as a Barista for the past 12 years. The first cafe I was employed at was a small shop that predominantly focused on catering, so we probably mage twenty coffees a day compared to the hundreds I make today.

Making coffee back then was a lot more simplified, I can’t remember ever adjusting grind size or weighing anything. I have a passion for learning and mastering new skills, so I found great joy in having access to various Grinders Coffee Specialists with different techniques. Working alongside baristas over the years not only enriched my understanding but also sparked my love of coffee.

Tell us, how do you drink your coffee?

I prefer my coffee on the smaller side, like a piccolo or a 6oz latte.

 

What are your tips to make better coffee?

One of the key tips I’d recommend for baristas aiming to improve their coffee is to prioritise mastering the fundamentals. Maintaining an efficient workflow and ensuring a tidy workspace are essential elements for achieving a consistently excellent cup of coffee.

 

What new trends or changes have you seen coming from your customers or the industry?

Certainly, there has been a significant increase in the adoption of at-home espresso machines and brewing equipment. Specifically for cafes however, just the diversity of menu options available are increasing to cater for everyone, such as healthier options, plant-based alternatives and specialty coffees like cold brews. Iced lattes are currently experiencing a surge in popularity, and their demand shows no signs of slowing down, even as we come into cooler months.

 

Can you tell us about your relationship with Grinder’s Coffee?

I have been using Grinders Classic blend across two different cafes for about seven years now so I’m pretty familiar with it. I like to play around with different doses, yields and times for more unique flavours. I have also been to visit the Grinders Roastery in Melbourne which was such a great experience. There was a wealth of information to absorb, and it was cool to see how much care and practice goes into the products you use every day.

 

What makes CocoBrew Express a great place to work?

I really enjoy working in a fast-paced environment and a coffee drive through is definitely that! The constant flow of customers makes the work really involved and time passes very quickly.

 

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