Brewed for success: funds for macedon ranges tourism

In a win for local jobs, regional tourism and beer lovers everywhere, the Andrews Labor Government today announced funds to redevelop Woodend’s renowned Holgate Brewery.

Premier Daniel Andrews joined Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas and Holgate workers to announce $1.5 million to help build a new Brewing Discovery Centre and Brewhouse Showroom.

The project will give visitors the very best craft beer experience, incorporating a museum, merchandise outlet, accommodation check-in and most importantly, a tasting room.

The upgrade will also create 15 local jobs and mean a major increase in brewing capacity, with the brewery looking to further expand its overseas exports.

Capitalising on the fast growing interest in food, wine and craft beer tourism, the number of visitors to the brewery are expected to double from 67,000 to around 125,000, within five years.

The Labor Government is proud to back the growth of craft beer tourism, already providing funding to Broo, Forrest Brewing Company, and the Australian Craft Beer Centre of Excellence.

The visitor economy is crucial to the future of regional and rural Victoria, with tourism contributing $11.5 billion to regional Victoria and generating 114,400 jobs annually.

The funds form part of the Labor Government’s Regional Tourism and Infrastructure Fund, which invests in regional tourism projects that create world-class tourism experiences, create jobs and boost local economies.

Quotes attributable to Premier Daniel Andrews
"We’re proud to back a project that means more local jobs and more local tourism."

"This redevelopment will see around 125,000 visitors flock to the region, sampling the finest brews and experiencing the very best that the Macedon Ranges has to offer."

Quotes attributable to Member for Macedon Mary Anne Thomas
"This project is great for jobs and great for the Macedon Ranges. An expanded Holgate Brewhouse will give people even more reason to visit."