It’s time to raise a glass as Tamworth’s version of Oktoberfest takes over Scully Park at Wests, once again on November 23.
For the sixth year, Brewfest will transform Scully Park into a family-friendly beer-lover’s haven featuring craft beer brewers from more than 30 breweries from as far away as Victoria and as close as our own New England Brewery from Uralla.
“We always get a good couple of thousand through the gates,” organiser Paddy Donnelly said.
“It’s great for the Tamworth community. There is plenty on around town, council run a lot of great events; it’s another great event that Wests puts on at Scully Park.”
Brewfest is becoming a favourite on the New England’s event calendar. What began with just five or six local brewers is now attracting more than 30 including interstate brewers and food vans.
“We’ve filled that beer festival gap for a few years,” Mr Donnelly said.
“It started off on one side of the stadium, got too big, and now it’s over the other side. The future goal is that we need to expand onto the playing surface of Scully Park.”
This year’s line-up showcases breweries from near and far, with local favourite New England Brewery from Uralla joined by breweries from as far south as Melbourne and as far north as Yamba. For many of these brewers, Brewfest is a rare opportunity to showcase their products to a new market.
“They come from far and wide,” Mr Donnelly said.
“It’s a good way for them to get their brand out there. They might have a good following in their area, but it’s a good way to show off their product to regional NSW and a new fanbase.”
Brewfest isn’t just for beer enthusiasts – it’s also a family-friendly event, complete with food trucks, live entertainment, and activities for the children.
While adults can sample craft brews, families can enjoy jumping castles, inflatable dartboards, and a range of local and visiting food vendors. Music lovers will find a lot to enjoy too, with a main stage featuring live bands and also an inflatable disco.
This year’s musical entertainment is local party band, Savage Groove and solo artist Daniel Thornton.
“We’re trying to have something for everyone,” Mr Donnelly said.
The festival spirit kicks off on the night before Brewfest with a ‘Meet the Brewer Night,’ giving attendees a sneak peek of the next day’s offerings.
“It’s a soft launch of the weekend, with entertainment and a chance to sample what’s going to be on offer the next day,” Mr Donnelly said.
The event is a unique chance for fans to connect with the people behind the brews.
For local home brewers, Brewfest offers a golden opportunity through its popular Home Brew Competition. With a first prize of $1000, the competition brings out the best in Tamworth’s brewing community.
“Last year was our best year and we had dozens of brewers enter,” Mr Donnelly said.
It’s a special chance for amateur brewers to showcase their work, chat with professionals, and get involved in the festivities.
Tickets are selling fast, with this year’s sales the highest they’ve ever been at this stage and a last-minute rush is expected.
Tickets are $35 if purchased prior to the event or $40 at the gate and the event runs from 5pm-10.30pm on November 23.
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