A few years back, we launched Craft Beer Rising, a national day in celebration of local beers from local brewers at local bars. The idea was to remind people to support their homegrown brewers at a time when many beer bars were tapping vast amounts of imported beer.
After a couple of years, it didn't feel like there was such a need but one event from Craft Beer Rising has taken on a life of its own: Big Bashes – an annual cricket match between the staff and punters of The Local Taphouse in St Kilda and a team of brewers and beer media.
It returns on February 25, 2017, at its usual location, St Kilda Primary School, who will be the recipients of funds raised on the day from the sausage sizzle and can bar.
All are invited to watch the Hop Hounds take on the Maestros of Malt for the fourth time, with the running score 2-1 in favour of the beer industry Maestros. At stake is the Hop Ashes – a mini keg containing ashes of hops burned ceremonially at the inaugural game in 2014.
The day will also feature a tug of war between brewers and beer fans, a jumping castle, face painting and egg and spoon races for kids. Respected beer larrikin Pete Mitcham will again take post as the celebrity umpire.
The first delivery (quite possibly a Harmison-esque wide) will be delivered at midday and you'll find the school on Brighton Road.