At the heart of the beer industry, women and non-binary leaders are not just breaking barriers – they are reshaping the future of brewing. While International Women’s Day serves as a reminder of the ongoing journey toward gender equality, we believe it’s essential to spotlight the contributions and achievements of these trailblazers all year round.
Their leadership, vision, and determination are creating opportunities and forging new paths, challenging the status quo, and making room for the next generation of women and non-binary people to thrive in the traditionally male-dominated industry. Celebrating these remarkable individuals every day highlights the progress we’ve made and the continued work needed to build a more inclusive and diverse beer industry for all.
Today we shine a spotlight on Mel Holland, Co-founder of Rocky Ridge Brewing Co, who tells Beer & Brewer that when she and her partner Hamish first entered the beer industry, she never expected it to become her life’s work. With a background in architecture and environmental planning, beer wasn’t on her radar. But now, a decade on, she can’t imagine a future without it.
“Yes, I followed a boy into this industry ha-ha,” she jokes. “But it wasn’t long until I realised how multifaceted the brewing industry is, and how much potential beer has as a vessel for doing good.”
As the Co-founder of Rocky Ridge in Western Australia, Holland explains that her focus within the business is more “beer adjacent”.
“I don’t have much to do with the day-to-day making of a beer – I leave that up to the experts. But my career is one that is heavily focused on ensuring we look after our planet for future generations and celebrating the incredible people in brewing,” she says.
It’s this commitment to purpose – combining sustainability, agriculture, and community – that drives her work.
“The brewing industry lets me combine my love of agriculture, sustainability, design and of course; beer.”
Mel Holland
Rocky Ridge is widely recognised for its commitment to environmental stewardship. The brewery proudly holds the title of Australia’s first and only Certified Sustainable and Carbon Neutral Brewery. It was also honoured with the 2024 Beer & Brewer Sustainability Award, further solidifying its leadership in sustainable brewing.
Carving space in the industry
Holland isn’t a stranger to working in industries where women are the minority.
She says: “I’ve only ever really experienced male-dominated industries – architecture, construction, agriculture, brewing – it seems I have a type,” she jokes.
While her role as a founder comes with a level of built-in authority, she acknowledges this doesn’t reflect the experience of everyone in the industry.
“I know my path does not represent that of someone starting out as a general employee. I empathise with that position; I’ve been there in other industries – it’s a hard slog.”
For Holland, the key challenge has been not just getting a seat at the table, but having her voice truly heard.
She says: “Walking the walk, I think, is the key to overcoming this, and just getting sh*t done. If you’re passionate about something and want to see change – go out and bloody do it, be the change.”
As part of a growing movement toward equity and inclusion in beer, Holland believes that creating welcoming environments is essential.
“It’s in all of our best interests to create a welcoming space for all. There is a beer out there for everyone, so we need to ensure we are catering to, and celebrating that diversity.”
She advocates for the power of networks and mentorship, saying: “If people feel safe and supported, no matter who they are, they will inherently thrive in their role. Even if you’re not in a position to directly assist, using your connections to widen someone’s network via a simple introduction is an easy way to help out.”
To women and non-binary people thinking about a career in beer, Holland doesn’t sugar-coat it: “It’s one of the most challenging industries I’ve ever worked in, but ultimately one of the most rewarding. It really does epitomise the ‘work hard, play hard’ mentality.”
Her top advice? “Find someone in the industry who inspires you and reach out to them. Authenticity is a very special thing, one that really shines in brewing.”
“Don’t mould yourself to be what you think the industry needs or wants. The most incredible people in our industry are those that are the most authentic and vibrant.”
Mel Holland
The joy of beer
Holland says that the magic of the beer world lies in its creativity, collaboration, and community.
“The brewing industry is very creative and innovative. It’s constantly moving, growing and pushing the boundaries. I love that creativity coming out of our industry.”
She adds, “The whole point of what we do is about having a beer with your mates, sharing a story, and being around the people we love. It’s pretty wholesome”.
Among her proudest achievements is the team she’s built at Rocky Ridge.
“Seeing them so passionately buy into what we are doing here is pretty incredible. Seeing them grow and evolve with us is extremely rewarding.”
She also lights up talking about the tangible outcomes of her work, saying: “Going to one of our venues, and seeing a member of the public enjoying a beer, smiling and sharing a story with mates – that’s the good stuff.”
And then there’s Rocky Ridge’s journey toward environmental responsibility, which she is incredibly passionate about.
“Every little step closer that we get from carbon neutral to net zero – it’s a win. A win for the planet.”
Mel Holland
Staying grounded in tough times
With the industry facing a tough economic cycle, Holland stresses the importance of staying connected.
“Getting involved in the industry I believe is so important to mental health. Brewing is pretty tough at the moment – but we are all in this together.”
For her, that means serving on the board of Pink Boots Society, joining the South West Brewers Alliance, and supporting local collaborations and events.
“Getting involved in the industry for the greater good keeps the focus on our sense of place, at a time when we can sometimes feel a bit lost.”
Holland’s journey may have started with love, but it’s sustained by purpose – and the belief that beer can be a force for good.