Artisan producers on the Sunshine Coast froth over new liquor licence

Craft beer and spirit enthusiasts will be toasting the news that more than 100 craft brewers and artisan distillers have hopped-on the opportunity to apply for Queensland’s first new liquor licence in eight years.

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Shannon Fentiman said that this includes 19 craft brewers and artisan distillers on the Sunshine Coast. 

“There is a buzz growing around Queensland’s boutique alcohol scene – giving locals and tourists alike the chance to sample quality craft beer or spirits in some of the state’s most popular drinking spots, as well as some unique locations in rural and regional Queensland,” Minister Fentiman said.

“We want to support our craft brewers and distillers to continue to grow their business and create more jobs for Queenslanders as we continue our economic recovery plan.

“It’s fantastic to see there have already been 114 applications from Queensland brewers and distillers for the new artisan producer liquor licence since April.

“The new licence allows producers to sell their own product as takeaway and online as well as showcase and sell samples at events such as festivals and markets.

“With the licence also comes the added opportunity to sell craft beers or spirits from other artisanal producers, as well as Queensland wines.”

Dimi Limnatitis from Diablo Australia on the Sunshine Coast said the new licence will allow their business to bring their products to more people in new and exciting ways.

“We are very passionate about what we do,” Mr Limnatitis said.

“For a small craft distillery, it is very important for us to be able to showcase our product, and to be able to do tastings and selling to the public away from our venue.

“The new licence also allows us to sell other locally produced craft products which is important to our customers.”

Benefits of the new artisan producer licence include:

• no limit to how much of their own product can be sold on their premises, providing production limits are met to ensure they remain boutique businesses
• an option to showcase and sell samples of their wares at promotional events such as farmers markets, food festivals and agricultural shows
• the ability to sell their product as takeaway, including online.

Licence applications for the Sunshine Coast region have come from the following LGAs:

• Sunshine Coast (15)
• Noosa (4)

More information on the artisan producer licence, including FAQs and how to apply can be found on the Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation’s website.

ENDS

Media contact:            Inga Williams        0439 949 719

All other enquiries: 13 QGOV (13 74 68)