Nolan Hirte
Founder of Proud Mary Coffee
Nolan Hirte is the founder of Proud Mary Coffee and a pioneering figure in modern specialty coffee. Born in remote Paraburdoo, Western Australia, he rose to prominence after winning the 2006 WA Barista Championship and moved to Melbourne, where he helped shape the city’s specialty coffee and elevated breakfast scene. Nolan introduced filter coffee, wine-style menus, and chef-driven brunch to a market ready for change. In 2017, he brought Proud Mary to the United States, opening celebrated cafés in Portland and Austin. Known for innovation, producer relationships, and boundary-pushing hospitality, Nolan continues to influence café culture globally.
12:00pm - 12:45pm
Friday 27th March 2026 Day 2
What Does It Take to Become the World’s Best Coffee Shop?
Discover how to bring attention to your café on a local/national and international stage, and sustain attention with high standards and consistency beyond being a social media haven and influencer paradise.
