As evidenced by the number of brewery closures and beer businesses going into administration, it's been tough going in the local beer world over the past couple of years.
But the spirit of optimism that drove Australian craft beer into a golden age is very much alive. Indeed, at its core, the industry remains one driven by community, creativity, and fun. In spite of the challenges, people still love and want to be part of it.
And that's how we end up in Bendigo, with the city's brand new and eponymously named Bendigo Brewing preparing to host their Grand Opening Weekend.
Many years in the making top get to the big day, November 15 officially represents party time as the country's newest brewery pours its first delightfully fresh and fully independent beers. They've been busy putting the brewery through its paces in recent months, scrubbing, hammering, clambering, cleaning, polishing, testing, and tasting, tasting, tasting in preparation for your imminent arrival. And you can expect it all to come out on the day: nerves, laughter, tears, relief, hugs – not to mention hot woodfired pizza.
The party officially gets started from 5pm Friday, then from midday 'til late all weekend long. Following that, the brewery will be open Thursday to Sunday from midday 'til late.
