Newcastle Craft Beer Week 2014

Newcastle is once again opening the doors of its bars, pubs and taverns to showcase the region and Australia’s premium craft beers during Newcastle Craft Beer Week, from 20 February to 2 March.

The big thing in beer right now is no longer light or low-carb concoctions, it’s craft beer, and Newcastle is the hub for independent brewers reinvigorating traditional recipes and experimenting with fresh flavours.

The City of Newcastle’s Manager of Tourism and Economic Development Services, Ms Jan Ross, can’t wait for the festivities to begin, saying: “Newcastle Craft Beer Week is a marvellous opportunity to experience two of life’s delicacies - conversation, and the sampling of exceptional beer. And what could be better than combining the two?"

“We’ve seen the most incredible shift in Australian palates for a generation. Over a relatively short period of time, our tastebuds have migrated away from traditional big beer brands to smaller niche offerings to the point that consumers are not only willing to pay a premium for craft beers, but are actively seeking out events such as Newcastle Craft Beer Week. It’s really a clear vote of confidence in our domestic grain growers, local producers, patrons and, of course, our economy,” added Ms Ross.

Now in its third year, 12 venues will participate in the week long event. These include: the Grain Store, which is housed in a former factory in the city’s East End; The Clarendon Hotel, where nearly half the taps drip with golden craft beer; The Albion Hotel, one of the country’s best known craft beer pubs; The Dockyard, featuring a newly revamped menu and terrific port views from the Boardwalk; and The Honeysuckle Hotel, offering superb harbour views, waterfront dining and, during Craft Beer Week, two days of taste testing together with a specially created banquet.

“Tourists are increasingly planning their itineraries around where they can eat and drink, as much as what they can see and do,” Ms Ross said.

“Sampling the best craft beers on offer is an extension of this trend; the fact Newcastle is home to some spectacular waterfront venues is an added bonus, and we’re looking forward to welcoming both locals and visitors to this unique festival.”

Highlights during Craft Beer Week include:

• Thursday February 20: Launch event at the Grain Store bringing together the best and brightest faces in beer
• Wednesday February 26: The official Newcastle Craft Beer Week dinner at the iconic Merewether Surfhouse featuring a tailored menu coupled with a selection of our finest craft beers
• Saturday March 1: A mini festival will take over the Honeysuckle precinct
• Sunday March 2: The annual Warners at the Bay Festival will test the mettle of the most experienced beer drinkers with a fine selection of more than 120 examples of craft beer 

For a full list of fixtures and functions, visit
www.newcastlecraftbeerweek.com