We were fortunate recently to have an article written on our Micro brewery and beer in a local newspaper. This is the article
By MONIQUE PASCHKE
There is no denying many Riverlanders enjoy a brew, or two, and now they will
be able to drink their own, locally made beer.
Tom Freeman and partner Sarah Dowdell will produce their first drop of the
liquid gold by May, after installing a micro-brewery at Wilkadene, near Murtho.
Spurred on by a passion for beer and a $50,000 SA Tourism grant the
micro-brewery is expected to be a major boost for the region, which has been
struggling due to drought and the grape glut.
The three-year project is an addition to the historic property, which is also
home of Above Renmark Houseboats and Wilkadene Cottage, complimenting the
existing tourism business.
The new beer brand will be named Woolshed Brewery because of its location
within the property's recently refurbished shearing sheds.
Mr Freeman said everything about the micro-brewery would have a distinct
Riverland flavour, right down to the name of the beers - although some people
may not realise it.
“Our first beer is to be named Amazon Ale after one of our favourite spots and
pastimes - the Amazon Creek, only a kilometre upstream from Wilkadene,” he
said.
“Kayaking or cruising the Amazon always reminds us of how special the Riverland
lifestyle is.
“We would also like to produce a dry lager, a pilsener and a dark beer.”
Another brew due to go into production is the Woolshed Brewery 'drought lager',
with a portion of its profits to go towards saving the River Murray.
“We are very passionate about the Murray and look forward to being able to make a difference,” Mr Freeman said.
He said the micro-brewery was a “unique and completely different” idea for the
Riverland and could be a significant boost to tourism in the region.
“The ability to arrive at the brewery by river is a first for breweries in Australia,”
he said.
“We believe the project will gather national attention showcasing the Murray River, which we believe is the best kept secret as far as tourism goes in the country.”
Both tourists and locals will be able to visit Wilkadene - by appointment - to
taste the brews on offer.
An outdoor decking area overlooking the River Murray is in the final stages of
planning, while construction of the tasting area will be undertaken in the
coming months. The local brew will also be available in the region's many
clubs, pubs and restaurants.
The project has the backing of a number of local venue managers and hoteliers,
with a successful tasting event held at Wilkadene this week.
“Everyone has been incredibly supportive,” Mr Freeman said.
“It is a beer being made by Riverlanders, for Riverlanders.”
