Holgate brewery expansion opens its doors

Woodend’s internationally renowned, family-owned Holgate beer brand will welcome 60,000 additional visitors to the region every year and employ up to 15 new workers, thanks to an Andrews Labor Government investment.

Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas joined Paul and Natasha Holgate at the official opening of the new Holgate Brewhouse Visitor Discovery Centre and Taproom to the public – made possible by a $1.5 million grant through the Labor Government’s Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund.

The new Visitor Discovery Centre is set to stimulate the local economy by $1.87 million in visitor spending each year, with a new tasting tap room, views of the brewery, reception for the adjoining hotel and an interactive visitor experience showcasing the history of Holgate Brewhouse.

The new centre comes after upgrades to the brewery including a world-class German-made brewing system and equipment – a first in the Australian craft beer brewing sector, increasing the brewery’s capacity and improving consistency across its products.

The project is the second stage of a three-part vision for the brewhouse’s growth, which also includes a Macedon Ranges Wine Hub and upcoming Calder Corridor Craft Beer Trail tourism experience.

The Holgate Brewhouse is the brainchild of Paul and Natasha Holgate, who had the idea for their business while on holiday in the USA when they came across the small craft brewing industry and were inspired to start their own.

Two years later they began operating from their backyard in Woodend and selling craft beer, before venturing into hospitality and tourism in 2002 when they took over the town’s historic Commercial Hotel. Constructed in 1896, the building has been Holgate Brewhouse’s home ever since.

Since 2013, the Holgate beer brand has been exported to the Philippines, Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macau, Thailand and Singapore.

Quotes attributable to Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas
"We’re so proud to back this local business to expand and create new jobs in Woodend, while supporting the local tourism industry and attracting new visitors to our beautiful region."

"The Holgate Brewhouse expansion will provide a great space for locals and visitors to come and enjoy more of this fantastic craft beer – putting Woodend well and truly on the map as a beer lovers’ destination."