You probably know this already, but Cameron Mackenzie OLY used to be a good 400m runner. So good that he competed in the 1996 Atlanta Olympics representing Australia on the 4 x 400m team. And as all relay runners know, there always comes a time to pass on the baton. In Cam's words to our team, "Today I announce my departure from Four Pillars - it is time to step away. As you would have noticed over the last 12 months, I have made myself beautifully obsolete! I know I look busy as I prance around the distillery holding a manila folder, but the reality is that the folder is empty and I only come in for the free coffee and to bother you all. It's from the George Costanza play book." With that, we are thrilled to announce Sarah Prowse will lead our world-class distilling team in Healesville. Prowsey is as good as they get. She joined us as a distiller in 2020 following a 15-year career in winemaking and, alongside Cam, was installed into the prestigious Gin Guild last year – the world's oldest community of gin-makers and leaders, established in London in 1638. She's been in charge of production for the past couple of years so the gins really couldn't be in better hands. Today is an announcement of mixed emotions. On one hand, it feels like Cam's hanging up his lucky apron, but on the other hand it's a tribute to what he has built over 11 years: an Australian gin legacy that will continue to be bigger than any one person. And, as Cam always says, our best gins are still ahead of us. Cam has also always reminded us that there's no such thing as a former Olympian, you're one for life. The same is true for founders. And besides, Cam still lives 150m from the distillery and hasn't bought a coffee in over 10 years so we're certain it's not goodbye!
Richard Cochrane
3mo
You've helped build an exceptional brand in Four Pillars Cameron Mackenzie OLY and I'm sure it wasn't an easy decision to make to step aside, however, the transition seems to be in safe hands! It's been an absolute pleasure knowing and working with you and the team over the years and I wish you nothing but the best in whatever you put your hands to next. Sláinte 🍹
M. Jimena Amorós
3mo
By far, one of the best farewells I've read! I also believe it's honorable and tough to make way for others. But that's life after all... If it's not our children, it's a student, an apprentice, a colleague. Best wishes to the next one in line, Sarah Prowse. And, Cameron, though I haven't had the please to meet you, I find deep respect for you and the example with which you clearly lead.
What an incredible journey Cam...you have left an indelible print on the #FourPillars business and we are all ever so grateful for your exceptional gin distilling talents. All the very best for whatever comes next. #MattJones thanks for sharing the news with us all and rest assured, we will continue to be die hard #4Ps consumers and supporters...#SarahProwes we look forward to your next delights! Take care
Matt Jones
3mo
The best...passing on the baton to the best. The gin's in the best of hands!
Teresa Mitchell
3mo
Better than getting the sack. 🤣 The future is waiting and opportunities abound. 🚀💫👏 Cin Cin🍹
Barry Geoghegan
3mo
Wishing you lots of fun and continued success Cam ..keep in touch !!
Aby McGarry
3mo
Good luck in your next venture Cam and thanks for the great interview for Meet the Distiller! I got to you just in time!
Emma Stokes
3mo
A huge congrats on everything you've built Cameron Mackenzie OLY, here's to a very large G&T and a lie down 😉. Very safe hands to leave the stills in, looking forward to seeing the next chapter in this story!
Nicole Gray
3mo
Cam is quite the inspiration! I feel lucky to have met him last month when we were down visiting. All the best! Sarah is going to continue to nail it though and I can’t wait to see the wizardry she will produce next!
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3moCameron Mackenzie OLY and Sarah Prowse Wohoo. Congrats to both of you. Cameron Mackenzie OLY it takes guts to step 🚶♂️ aside - even when you know it's the right time ⌚. Sarah Prowse you have some big shoes 👞 to fill, but looks like you're already well on your way 💪 .