Craft Cider is carving out more than a niche in the alcoholic beverage market according to the national cider industry body.

Cider Australia members were optimistic about the future prospects for cider at the organisation’s 2017 Annual General Meeting held in Melbourne on Monday.

Sam Reid, co-owner of Tasmania’s Willie Smith’s Organic Apple Cider was returned for the fourth year as president of Cider Australia alongside a dedicated executive team which included two new faces, Gus Kelly from Kelly Brothers Cider Co and Ben Clifton from Beechworth Cider.

“Producers are in high spirits as the tax reform debate comes to a positive conclusion – we applaud the Government’s WET Rebate reforms and believe the changes will ensure the longevity of the Australian cider industry”, said Mr Reid.

“There is a real opportunity for Australian cider to follow in the footsteps of the wine industry and contribute to growing Australian exports”.

“The cider industry must now focus on building product integrity to put Australian cider exports on a sustainable growth path, leading with quality first and foremost”.

Cider Australia is hopeful of securing funding under the Government’s $50 million Export and Regional Wine Support Package to implement a standalone cider production standard.

“Stronger product integrity is crucial before the cider industry establishes a significant export footprint”, Mr Reid said.

Cider Australia 2017 Executive Committee

President – Sam Reid, Willie Smith’s Organic Cider (TAS)
Vice President – Warwick Billings, LOBO Cider (SA)
Vice President – Nyall Condon, Flying Brick Cider Co (VIC)
Treasurer – Shane McLaughlin, Hillbilly Cider (NSW)
Secretary – Gus Kelly, Kelly Brothers Cider Co (VIC)
Category Development – Ben Clifton, Beechworth Cider (VIC)
Digital – Mark Ellis (VIC)

www.cideraustralia.org.au