Kim Amos of Mates Gin

Apr

Where something for you, creates something for others

At Mates Gin, the spirit is just the beginning. “It’s about sharing a drink with your mates, while supporting your mates,” explains founder and distiller Kim Amos, who took a leap of faith to launch a socially responsible business that gives 50% of profits to charity.

The Mates Gin team with their range of house distilled gin.

Kim draws on her New Zealand roots, a love for the Bass Coast, and a deep commitment to community. Mates Gin began as a bold idea: to build a business that could give back—and keep people connected.

“Whenever I donated to a cause, it never felt like enough. I wanted to do more—to create something that kept giving.”

And in the spirit of doing more, she did.

That’s the spirit

Mates Gin proudly operates as a social enterprise, with 50% of profits going to charity. From supporting emergency services and local fundraisers to creating memorable experiences for disadvantaged children, the distillery is built on the belief that business can—and should—give back.

“Community is at the heart of everything we do. It means looking after each other, celebrating local stories, and giving back in meaningful ways.”

“It just so happens I also love gin, so what better way to bring wonderful experiences to both our customers and the recipients of our donations” Kim adds.

Mates Gin began as a bold idea: to build a business that could give back and keep people connected.

Even the name ‘MATES’ has a deeper story, first used as an acronym for a mystery weekend Kim organised with friends: Mystery, Adventures, Tours & Experiences. The name stuck. Now it’s also a place for mates to share a drink… while helping others in the process.

The Gins and the Experience

From the start, Mates Gin was designed to be warm, welcoming and down to earth. The Wonthaggi distillery offers a cosy, community-focused space where locals and travellers can feel at home; often greeted by friendly staff and resident distillery dog, Gibbs who even has his own hashtag #gibbsthedistillerydog.

Whether you’re a gin aficionado or a curious first timer, the cellar door experience is relaxed, welcoming, and designed to feel like dropping in on a friend.

The gin range includes:

Signature Bass Dry – a classic gin with hints of cinnamon, lemon and elderberry.
Zesty Mates – a punchy mix of calamus, pepperberry, cassia and local citrus.
Miners Pick – earthy with grapefruit and liquorice, ideal in a martini or G&T.
Sweet Surrender – bold cardamom with lemon, liquorice, and Bass Coast honey for a smooth finish.
Strawberry Fields Forever – A delicious bold base of juniper, coriander and angelica root with a luscious, sweet strawberry finish.

Each gin is crafted with care and generosity, made the way Kim would enjoy it herself, and always with good company and mates in mind.

And the best moment so far?

“Bottling the first Founding Members gin. All the preparation and purpose behind the idea came together in that one moment. It felt real—and deeply meaningful.”

Enjoying pizza surrounded by the cozy atmosphere of Mates Gin Distillery.

What’s Next

Mates is growing. Kim is expanding the space to offer distillery tours and gin classes, while also adding new flavour profiles and small-batch experiments. Sustainability upgrades are also underway, including insulation and solar panels to create a more efficient and comfortable space.

And at the heart of it all is The Dream Big Australia Foundation, which Kim launched to support children in need of joy, opportunity and possibility.

“Children (and family) are very important to me, and I believe we all need to have something to look forward to and nice memories to cherish. I established The Dream Big Australia Foundation because I believe every child deserves the chance to experience joy, opportunity and possibility–regardless of their background or circumstances. Born from the simple idea that positive experiences can change lives. Whether it’s a trip, an experience or just a moment that makes them feel seen and valued, can spark hope and confidence. Dreams matter… Dream Big,” explains Kim.

With every bottle poured, Mates Gin raises a glass to generosity, community, and mateship at the heart of Bass Coast life.

Something to Try

Visit the Cellar door and order a Signature Bass Dry with a slice of lime and rosemary—Kim’s favourite way to enjoy it with friends. Stay a little while and pair it with a tasting plate or something from the menu, prepared by the talented Wanderlust Chefs using fresh, local produce.