Grand Ridge Brewery, in Victoria’s Strzelecki Ranges, has become the latest brewery to file for voluntary administration. The brewery has operated for 35 years.
Established in 1989 in an old butter factory in Mirboo North, Grand Ridge Brewery is a family-owned business and one of the oldest independent breweries in Australia. It has won over 250 medals for its brews throughout its history. An environmentally conscious operation, several years ago 384 solar panels were installed on site to power the business. Not long after that, the Twisted Sister cider brand was also launched as part of the Grand Ridge offer, to make sue of excess apples grown by neighbouring farmers.
On Friday 5 April, founder and owner Eric Walters announced the decision to appoint administrators, citing financial pressures dating from the pandemic, along with rapidly rising costs and increasing taxes.
“This decision was the most difficult in 35 years of operation. We believe there is no alternative than to file for voluntary administration. Ultimately, we hope to remain operational,” stated Walters.
“It has been an amazing journey, helping build the craft beer revolution in Australia and seeing it flourish into what it is today, and adding to the quality choices for Aussie beer consumers. I am very proud to have been part of this.
“I want to thank my incredible team who have worked tirelessly to make all the beers great and who have helped promote the brand throughout Australia, driving regional tourism and jobs for locals, and across the world more recently as we embarked on a major branding exercise.”
Grand Ridge Brewery appointed Richard Lawrence and Mitchell Ball from Mackay Goodwin as administrators. For the foreseeable future, the brewery will continue to operate, producing beer and cider. The taphouse and restaurant will remain open. The company hopes to retain as many staff as possible.
In the meantime, Walters and the Grand Ridge Brewery team have thanks their loyal customers and supporters.
“Thank you to all our loyal customers, suppliers and supporters, whose positive comments and feedback along the way have been fantastic.
“Our industry, along with many others is currently finding business very challenging. We foresee a positive future in a restructured business and are eager to reset and move forward.”
To show its appreciation, the brewery is currently offering Victorian customers a deal of two cases for $100.