The Distillery

Welcome to The Distillery, an online interview series hosted by Lee Shang Lun. Each half-hour episode is a livestreamed conversation that concentrates on the subject's unique perspective and expertise. The aim is to draw out simple ideas from deep discussion.


Episode 22 – William Hammersla & Ruen (Mae) Mackenzie

William Hammersla

3 June 2020 6:30 PM

William Hammersla was born in the US (sadly), grew up in England, and then finished growing in Australia. Will has lived many lives and music, art, and science have been staples throughout all of them. He completed a master’s degree before realising his true calling was within the indoor climbing world. Will stays in Collingwood, routesetting and helping manage the Urban Climb facility.

Ruen (Mae) Mackenzie

Ruen (Mae) Mackenzie (she/her) has been involved in the climbing community for over 10 years. Mae is a Routesetter for Urban Climb and has been setting for 3 years. She is honoured to be part of the small but strong movement of women working and creating positive changes in the climbing industry. Mae considers it a privilege to be a part of anyone’s first experience of climbing and see the growth of strength, learning, and courage that comes with it!