Cheers to nation’s best beers
BEER lovers from across Australia descended on Geelong at the weekend for an annual event showcasing the nation’s best breweries.
More than 4000 people converged on Johnstone Park as it played host to the Great Australian Beer Festival for the first time in the event’s eight-year history.
Patrons came from each state in Australia to spend the day visiting pop-up bars and sipping and sampling their way through more than 200 beers and ciders.
Organiser Mike Ward said sunny conditions provided the perfect setting at Johnstone Park, allowing event-goers to enjoy a fun day out.
“It went great. It was fantastic,” he said.
“I think the park has been begging for an event like this and everyone has been so responsive.
“Everyone just loved it … It was a wonderful vibe.”
This year’s line-up featured 41 breweries, including several winners from the Australian International Beer Awards, with Blackman’s Brewery and Balter Brewing among them.
There was also no shortage of entertainment, with Sneaky Sound System headlining a range of performers.
Mr Ward said the group, led by Connie Mitchell (pictured below, left) had the audience “absolutely captivated”.
The event shifted to Johnstone Park this year after previously being hosted at Geelong Racecourse.
Mr Ward said the festival would “definitely” return to Johnstone Park next year.
“It was perfect for the event,” he said.
“It’s just beautiful. It lends itself to events as such.
“The amount of people that caught the train or were dropped off in the city; it was just so easy to get to.
“It ticked all the boxes and it’s just easier for people to kick on afterwards.
“All the brewers had a really great time and the f eedback we’ve received has been remarkable.”