There's been a big change at Otherside Brewing as their founding head brewer, Rhys Lopez, departs to focus on his long-mooted project, Evil Mega Corp.
Vastly-experienced former Little Creatures brewer Andy Scade, who has also played a central role in the development of the wider WA beer industry over the course of his career, steps into the role.
More in the media release below. You can read our interview with Rhys after he helped Otherside claim the 2021 WA Good Food Guide Beer of the Year – and our WA Breakthrough Brewery Of The Year – here.
OTHERSIDE MARKS NEW ERA WITH HEAD BREWER APPOINTMENT
Otherside Brewing Co is pleased to announce the appointment of new Head Brewer, Andy Scade, as inaugural Head Brewer, Rhys Lopez, embarks on a new personal venture.
Scade will join Otherside in mid-March, having spent 12 years with Lion Australia at Little Creatures, and recently serving as Head Brewer of Bevy Brewing Co.
Previously the Chairperson of the West Australian Brewers Association and a valued mentor to many aspiring WA brewers, Scade is a highly celebrated member of the West Australian brewing community. With a wealth of experience in commercial brewing and product development, his appointment comes at a time of strategic placements for Otherside, who recently announced the appointment of General Manager Braden Loader, former partnerships lead at Carlton & United Breweries and recent Head of Brand & Partnerships at Triple-1-Three. The appointments signal a focus on commercial growth whilst leveraging Otherside’s reputation for product quality and innovation.
Rhys Lopez leaves Otherside after nearly eight years as its founding Head Brewer, having overseen the installation of Otherside’s brewery in 2018. Over his tenure, Lopez gained a reputation as a passionate advocate of craft beer and a highly awarded brewer – amassing titles for Otherside including Champion Medium Sized Brewery at the 2022 Perth Royal Beer Awards and Champion WA Brewery at the 2022 Independent Beer Awards, amongst numerous other trophies.
Otherside’s Managing Director, James Legge, says: “We are delighted that someone of Andy’s pedigree is taking over from Rhys. Andy was a key mentor for Rhys throughout the development of his career, and it’s great to see things come full circle as Andy takes over the reins here at Otherside.
“We couldn’t be more grateful to Rhys for his hard work and passion, and we’re really looking forward to working with Andy and tapping into his wealth of experience and knowledge.”
Scade added: “I have always respected what Otherside is about, and the quality of products coming out of the brewery, so this opportunity wasn’t one to miss. I’m really looking forward to connecting with the team, getting under the hood of the business, and exploring some new possibilities.”
