It's fair to say GABS has come a long way, from an event showcasing 20 new Aussie beers at The Local Taphouse in February 2011 to a behemoth that bestrides two countries over a few weeks in May and June.
Since 2012, the main event has taken place at the Royal Exhibition Building in Melbourne, transforming the old venue more than any other event we've attended there.
And, as in every previous year, the 2018 gathering promises more new features on top of the 100-plus festival beers and ciders (this time inspired by the likes of jam, Skittles, gin, snails, crickets and Bertie Beetle), scores of brewery and food stall, Craft Beer College, roving performances, Ferris wheel and more.
New features include the Holey Moley Golf Club and Colonial Caddyshack, the Milawa Cheese & Prosecco Bar, barrel aged whisky, gin and cocktails from Starward and Four Pillars, and the opportunity to "dunk-a-brewer", courtesy of Brewmanity, with all funds supporting the fight against motor neurone disease.
Event director Craig Williams says: “For us, GABS is about sharing our love of craft beer and cider with as many people as possible through an unforgettable experience. Great beer is about skill, passion, creativity and, most of all, fun. GABS brings all that to life, whether you're just starting out on your beer journey, or the most fervent fan.”
Among the food offerings will be Bluebonnet BBQ, Biggie Smalls and 8Bit Burgers in Melbourne, with Happy As Larry Pizza, Chur Burger and Dirty Bird rocking up for the Sydney leg.
Tickets are on sale from 9am on March 23 with various offerings from single session to all session season passes on offer.
BOOK TICKETS HERE
NB If you want to get a ticket as a welcome gift for becoming a Crafty Cabal member, we've only got tickets left for both Friday and the Sunday session in Melbourne and Sydney session two. Head here to snaffle one before they're gone.
