The Story
The Groundskeeper Willie Story
What happens when two coffee-obsessed humans and one cartoon dachshund join forces? Groundskeeper Willie Coffee, that's what.
It all started with the Willie dawg—the long-bodied, short-legged mascot inspired by our real-life dachshund Ralph. While we humans thought we were the ones with the refined palates, we imagined Willie dawg sitting at our feet during morning cuppings, giving approving sniffs to only the finest beans.
We took the hint. If our coffee didn't pass the Willie dawg test, it wasn't going to market.
Our journeys to origin have taken us across the globe—from the misty mountains of Colombia to the rich soils of Nicaragua —building relationships with farmers who share our passion for exceptional coffee. These sourcing trips aren't just about finding beans; they're about connecting with the people and places that make coffee magical.
Our little family business roasts small-batch, single-origin coffees with personalities as distinct as the Willie dawg's playful character. Each bean is sourced ethically, roasted with precision, and named with the kind of quirky flair that makes coffee drinking what it should be—delicious, a bit cheeky, and never boring.
From our home to yours, we're not just selling coffee. We're sharing our passion one bag at a time, complete with the Willie dawg's paw of approval on every package.
Whether you're a seasoned coffee connoisseur or just someone who appreciates a good cup and an even better story, we've got something brewing for you.
A few memories worth sharing
We started a small apartment fire while roasting on our Huky 500
We helped underprivileged youth get a leg up learning about starting a business in coffee
Had a great time meeting some of our favourite producers (and a few more who are now also our current producers) in Nicaragua, and got to tell them them their coffee was awesome
Threw our roaster in the back of a U-Haul truck, built a makeshift crate and shipped him back home to Australia
Above: Will navigating a steep slope at Finca Limoncello in Nicaragua, Attie & Will at the Swiss Water Decaf headquarters in Vancouver, On the drying patio of Fincas Mierisch, Jinotega