There won't be any group shots like this one featuring many of last year's trophy-winners, but a pesky pandemic isn't enough to derail The Indies.

The annual celebration of the best of the local indie beer world is going ahead on November 19, combining virtual parties with those in venues around the country – all streamed online. (Details of state parties below)

The Independent Brewers Association (IBA) team has been working on a COVID-Safe alternative to its annual bash, which is set to announce the winners from more than 700 entries being judged at hubs in Perth, Brisbane and Newcastle from 8pm AEDT.

“Without this incredible mobilisation around the country, running the Indies this year wouldn’t have been possible,” IBA events director Siobhan Kerin says, adding that it's never been more important to celebrating Australian owned and independent businesses.

The awards ceremony will be hosted by James Smith, founder of The Crafty Pint, and Karl van Buuren of Moon Dog, there to provide "special comments" throughout the evening. There will also be live crosses to parties in Adelaide, Brisbane, Perth, Sydney, and Tasmania.

STREAM THE INDIES HERE

Associate members are also assisting with major prizes for trophy winners, including Owen Johnston, from Hop Products Australia, who says: "It’s been an unbelievably tough year for so many people.

"We feel incredibly lucky to be part of such a creative and collaborative industry and have watched in awe as so many brewers have rapidly adapted to the current conditions."

The IBA will help promote viewing parties for any venues keen to host around Australia. Look out for more details on the sign-up process for venues, and locations, in the lead up to the big night.

You can keep up to date with all things IBA and Indies, including find full details of the 25 trophies and trophy sponsors, via the association's website.

State Parties

West Australian Indies 2020 Live Cross Party

Besk, along with Ellerslie Hop, will host the official West Australian Indies Live Cross Party. This is the official venue and will feature in live crosses from the Melbourne studio.

5pm to 8pm WA Standard Time at 264/270 Railway Parade, West Leederville

South Australia Indies 2020 Live Cross Party

Prancing Pony will host the official SA Indies Party and will feature in live crosses from the Melbourne studio.

7.30pm to 11pm Central Australia Standard Time at 42 Mt Barker Road, Totness

Queensland Indies 2020 Live Cross Party

Sea Legs, in conjunction with Cryer Malt and Yakima Chief Hops will host the official Queensland Indies Party, including live crosses from the Melbourne studio.

7pm to 10pm AEST at 89 Main Street, Kangaroo Point 

Party Down in Hobart Town

The party down in Hobart town will be held at Fox Friday’s brand new taproom. As event sponsor, HPA will also serve up a few limited edition beers starring their brand new flavour hop Eclipse. IBA members will be treated to a sensory experience and swag bags.

8pm to 11pm AEDT at u6/14A Main Road, Moonah

NSW Indies 2020 Live Cross Party

Philter, in conjunction with Kegstar, will host the official NSW Indies Party. This is the official venue and will feature in live crosses from the Melbourne studio.

8pm to 11pm AEDT at 92-98 Sydenham Road, Marrickville