WA craft brewer Beerfarm’s east coast expansion under way with new brewery for Gosford

West Australian craft brewery Beerfarm’s long-held ambition to expand to the east coast is finally coming to fruition with plans to build a new brewery and taphouse in Glenworth Valley near Gosford on the NSW Central Coast.

Beerfarm, which was founded in 2015 by mates George Scott, Ian Atkins, Craig Thommo, Ben Joseph and Josh Thomas, has secured development approval for the project and plans to start construction early next year.

The Glenworth Valley facility aims to replicate the success of Beerfarm’s existing venue at Metricup in Western Australia’s Margaret River region where the partners built their dream by transforming a former dairy farm's hay shed into a tavern and turning the round house into a fully-fledged brewery.

The Metricup taproom and its “paddock to plate” dining experience has become a major regional tourism drawcard for WA’s south-west coast and the partners see the NSW facility as critical to Beerfarm’s expansion plans.

The plans were aided earlier this year by Beerfarm’s acquisition of Feral Brewing’s Bassendean production facilities from Coca-Cola Europacific Partners, a move that tripled its production capacity and brought into the team several industry veterans from major breweries such as Stone & Wood.

Beerfarm said at the time that the Bassendean facility in Perth would help the company boost its national and international presence in the craft brewing industry by “better meeting the supply demands of Australia’s larger liquor distributors”. 

The company produces a range of beers from India pale ales, stouts and fruited sours to ciders and ginger beers.

Development of the Glenworth Valley project will kick off early next year, initially with construction of the brewery which is expected to be producing beer by mid-year.

The brewery will deliver additional capacity of up to two million litres a year for Beerfarm, increasing the company’s national output by 30 per cent and boosting its capabilities to supply products on the east coast.

Beerfarm plans to start construction of its hospitality venue at Glenworth Valley in the second half of 2025 with the aim of welcoming its first guests in mid-2026. The venue will feature a taproom offering Beerfarm’s full beer range and a restaurant focused on local produce.

“Beerfarm is excited to expand into Glenworth Valley, aiming to contribute positively to the local social and business community,” says Ian Atkins, Beerfarm co-founder and director.

“The project’s design, construction and operations will create opportunities for local suppliers and workers, fostering collaboration and economic growth.

“Our goal is to support Glenworth Valley’s development as a premier destination for day-trippers from the Central Coast, Newcastle, Sydney and beyond, further cementing its reputation as an exciting location for visitors.”

Beerfarm, which has been eyeing expansion on the east coast for several years, is aiming to embed its new operation into the Central Coast community by partnering with regional suppliers, supporting local fundraising initiatives and hosting grassroots events on site.

The Glenworth Valley venue will host live music, private events and large-scale cultural events and the facility is expected to provide local jobs for up to 50 people.

“This new Beerfarm site on the east coast represents our dedication to growth while staying true to our roots,” says Atkins.

“We look forward to becoming a part of this wonderful community and sharing our passion for great beer and good times with everyone here.”