Ginsights: Showcasing Remarkable Writers
Note that for 2026, the Ginsights venue has changed. We are now holding the events at the Olims Bar & Bistro in Braddon.
Michael Mohammed Ahmad - Thursday 5 February 6-8pm
On Thursday 5 February from 6-8pm, Olims Bar and Bistro will host Ginsights in the Lounge with acclaimed author Michael Mohammed Ahmad in conversation about his newly released novel Bugger. Mohammed’s work explores the intersections of ethnicity, religion and class, and depicts the personal and political consequences of both marginalisation and solidarity. In Bugger he writes with devastating poignancy and gritty tenderness, revealing an uncompromising representation of abuse and explores the impact one day can have on a lifetime.
This is a ticketed event in the Carlton Lounge located between the Mercure Hotel registration desk and the Olims Bar and Bistro. Tickets can be purchased here: https://events.humanitix.com/ginsights-michael-mohammed-ahmad
At Ginsights we will have a formal Q&A and guests will also be able to share cocktails and informal conversations with Mohammed. Our bookseller event partner Paperchain bookstore will have copies of Mohammed’s books for sale and signing on the night. The Olims Bar will be selling a cocktail of the night featuring Big River spirits, alongside a Big River G&T, in addition to their usual selection of drinks. Olims Bistro will be open to purchase snacks and meals.
Past Presenters
Sam Guthrie
Natasha Lester
Siang Lu
Kaaron Warren
Lucy Treloar
Let customers speak for us
Lovely traditional style gin easy drinking highly recommended
Using it chiefly to make herbal tincture. I am Giving 5 stars for it.
The gin tasting experience at Big River was so fantastic that I have bought a gift voucher for my sister to do the same. The staff were lovely, and the gin was paired perfectly with the garnishes and mixers. Highly recommend.
A great classic gin. Worked very well with tonic and in a dirty martini.
Amazing just over ice. I really enjoy this. Such an easy drink and feels special. I have given as gifts to so many people now too.
We thoroughly enjoyed this distillery tour! Clyde was full of information and enthusiasm about the gin he makes and was happy to help us understand the processes, both chemical and mechanical, that go into making gin. He also showed us the distilling equipment and explained some of the how-to's of achieving different flavour notes. Afterwards we got a flyer 6 different gins accompanied by a delicious cheese and charcuterie platter. Everyone was friendly and extremely helpful.
Brilliant event! I love the discussions and warmth at Ginsights, as well as the fabulous gin.
A great activity for any gin lover. The space is cosy and the staff were super lovely. They walked us through how their gin is made, then we got to taste all the gins! Every gin was great and so drinkable (almost too good). Would recommend.
Sam was great, the book is fantastic. The interview was excellent, got me interested to buy the book
My partner and I had a wonderful time discovering the finer points of gin distilling with the team! It was great to get some insights into how they make their gins and this was followed by a lovely series of tastings accompanied by a delicious charcuterie board. Definitely recommended!!
Loved it, fascinating to get to hear from the distiller and learn what actually goes into a bottle of gin. And then get to taste said bottle of gin! Bought home three bottles afterwards, would highly recommend.
I’ve read her latest book- very easy read. Rachel’s interview style was well thought out and interactive. I would definitely go to another of her book launches.
Very good gin. Hard to stop at one. I enjoyed it straight and then added some tonic. Will buy it again.
Delightful event at a lovely venue. Great atmosphere, delicious gin, friendly people. Really enjoyed, will probably go back just for the gin!
Absolutely love the Syrah, perfect summer drink mixes with bitter lemon as suggested by the distiller.