Newstead Brewery, a pioneer in Brisbane's craft beer scene, has closed its doors for good. The brewery's closure is not due to the recent Cyclone Alfred but rather the aftermath of the 2022 floods that devastated the region. Despite efforts to keep the business afloat, economic challenges and market conditions have proven too much to overcome. This article explores the reasons behind the brewery's closure and the broader implications for the craft beer industry.

Impact of Natural Disasters on Newstead Brewery

The brewery faced significant setbacks from natural disasters, particularly the 2022 floods. These floods caused extensive damage to their Milton production facility and taproom, leading to seven months without brewing operations. Prior to this, the brewery had already been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, which reduced revenue due to limited attendance at nearby Suncorp Stadium events. Michelle Thompson, head of operations, described the flood as a critical turning point, stating it marked the beginning of a prolonged struggle for survival.

Since the 2022 floods, the brewery has been fighting an uphill battle. For three years, they have attempted to revive the business through various means, including seeking investors and exploring potential sales. However, the ongoing economic downturn and tough market conditions made these efforts futile. The brewery's inability to recover fully from the flood damage and the subsequent financial strain ultimately led to the decision to close permanently. Staff were informed of the directors' decision just before the final trading day, highlighting the sudden nature of the closure. Marks from the floodwaters can still be seen on the equipment after months of cleaning and recovery work.

Brewery's Legacy and Industry Challenges

Newstead Brewing played a pivotal role in shaping Brisbane's craft beer landscape. Founded by the Howes family, the brewery opened its first brewpub in Doggett Street in December 2013, bringing a new level of hospitality to the city's beer scene. Over the years, they expanded to a major production facility in Milton, near Suncorp Stadium. Despite attempts to expand beyond state borders, the brewery remained deeply rooted in supporting local initiatives and partnerships in sports and arts.

Michele Thompson emphasized the importance of recognizing the perilous state of the beer industry. She expressed pride in Newstead's contributions while urging awareness of the broader challenges facing breweries. The closure of Newstead is part of a larger trend where many breweries are struggling to stay afloat. Thompson believes that addressing these issues is crucial for the future of the craft beer industry. As the brewery's chapter closes, the focus shifts to advocating for the industry's sustainability and resilience.