Beer & Brewer Awards, in collaboration with Sydney beer week

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The Beer & Brewer Awards

A major highlight of Sydney Beer Week will be the return of the Beer & Brewer Awards, presented live in collaboration with Sydney Beer Week. 

We are absolutely thrilled to announce the return of the Beer & Brew Awards in 2026 – for an unforgettable industry night out!

Taking place on 20 October, the awards will bring together growers, suppliers, brewers, venues, retailers and industry supporters to celebrate excellence across the beer ecosystem. Further details, including venue and ticketing, will be announced in the coming months. 

Last Years Beer & Brewer Awards

From long-standing leaders to emerging talent, the night recognised excellence across the full spectrum of the industry. Richard Watkins of BentSpoke Brewing Co was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award, recognising nearly three decades of contribution to Australian beer, while DJ McCready was named Brewer of the Year. The Bob Hawke Beer & Leisure Centre took out Brewpub of the Year, and Carwyn Cellars was recognised as Best Beer Retailer.

Sydney’s own Hotel Sweeney’s was awarded Best Tap List, recognised by judges as “a rooftop oasis with a beer for every occasion,” reflecting a commitment to delivering variety, quality, and consistency for beer lovers week in, week out.

Beyond venues and products, the awards celebrated the personalities and passion that define the industry. Brad Nolen of Hop Products Australia claimed back-to-back wins as Life of the Party — an award recognising those whose energy and enthusiasm lifted the entire community.

The Rising Star Award went to Charlotte Freeston of Feral Brewing Co, acknowledged for her impact, leadership, and the way she was helping shape the next generation of the industry.

 There were also powerful moments of recognition, with the People’s Choice Award shared between Kylie Lethbridge — a long-time champion of independent beer — and Tait Micallef, honoured in memoriam in a moment that resonated deeply across the room.

Sustainability remained front and centre, with Rocky Ridge Brewing Co taking out the award for the second consecutive year, while Voyager Craft Malt was recognised as Supplier of the Year for its leadership, innovation, and commitment to the future of brewing.

Bitter Phew was once again named Beer Venue of the Year, cementing its place as one of Australia’s leading beer destinations, built on a philosophy of inclusivity, quality, and strong industry collaboration.

 Peter Anstey, Managing Director of Sydney Beer Week, said the event represented far more than just a night of recognition.

“With Sydney Beer Week, the goal has always been to shine a light on the individuals, venues, and producers who give so much to this industry. When both SBW and these awards paused, you could really feel something missing — because recognising and celebrating our own matters.

“Bringing this back was about reconnecting the industry, celebrating what makes it special, and making sure the people pushing it forward got the spotlight they deserve.”

Despite the challenges faced across recent years, the overwhelming sentiment of the night was one of optimism — a reminder that the Australian beer industry continued to evolve, innovate, and thrive.

Save the date

Whether you’re a brewer, venue operator, supplier, or simply someone who loves great beer, the 2026 Beer & Brewer Awards promise an unmissable night of recognition, connection, and good cheer.

When: Tuesday, 20 October 2026

Where: TBA

Tickets: On sale soon