Brewery Backpacking: Aussie Regions Worth a Crafty Road Trip
Fuel the tank, pack the esky, point the bonnet at beer. If your dream holiday involves beaches by day and taprooms by late arvo, you’re in luck. Australia’s dotted with small, fiercely independent breweries serving up frothy gold in stunning locations. Here’s where to go when the wanderlust (and thirst) hits.
Victoria: Gippsland & Regional Gems
Head east out of Melbourne and into Gippsland, where breweries are as friendly as the locals. Stop at Bandolier Brewing in Warragul for small-batch ales made by people who clearly love what they do. Further along, Good Land Brewing Co in Traralgon is a family-run standout, and Burra Brewing Co in Korumburra pours approachable beers for anyone keen to linger.
These country taprooms have one thing in common — a deep love of place. They’re the kind of breweries where the brewer’s probably behind the bar and the playlists are banging.
Northern Rivers & Northern NSW: Surf, Hinterland & Suds
Once you hit the Northern Rivers, the beer scene gets seriously good. Seven Mile Brewing Co in Ballina nails easy-drinking coastal styles, while Wandana Brewing Co in Mullumbimby leans experimental with small-batch brews that feel right at home in the Byron hinterland. Head inland to Common People Brewing Co in Bangalow for laid-back vibes and a killer pale.
It’s surf-then-sip territory — ocean air, rolling hills and pints that taste like the good life.
Tasmania: Island of Wild Ferments & Pure Water
Tasmania’s brewing scene is tiny but mighty. In Hobart, Overland Brewers & Distillers crafts modern classics with a nod to nature. Up north, Miners Gold Brewery in Beaconsfield and Morrison Brewery in Invermay keep things local, pure, and proudly independent. Expect crisp lagers, dark ales and the occasional wild ferment — all brewed with some of the cleanest water on Earth.
Western Australia: The Indie Coast
WA’s craft beer scene is all coastline, community and creativity. Down south in Denmark, Boston Brewing Co blends local ingredients with relaxed vibes. In Busselton, Rocky Ridge Brewing Co is 100% independent, family-owned, and brewing some of the country’s most innovative beers — all off the grid. Further inland, Otherside Brewing Company in West Leederville is a small-batch urban brewery doing seriously good things, while Beerfarm in Metricup turns out character-packed beers from a converted dairy shed.
Sunset pints, salt spray, and small-town charm — WA nails it.
Can’t Hit the Road Just Yet?
A road trip not on the cards for the minute? That’s cool. Let one of our Six Packs take you there from the comfort of your couch. Crack a can, close your eyes and picture the brewer handing it to you with a nod and a grin.
Road trips end. Fridge memories last. Support the little guys, drink fresh, and start planning your next pint pilgrimage.
