David and Helen Black

The Coastal Brewing Company has opened in Forster, plugging a gap in the brewery trail on New South Wales’ mid north coast.

The brewery has been founded by Helen and David Black, who have both left the corporate world for the venture.

“I’ve just left Zurich Insurance where I was head of marketing and communications,” Helen Black told Brews News.

I’ve worked in financial and professional services for about 20 years. My husband was with one of the big four accounting firms.

“I reckon we’re probably the only microbrewery for about 50 to 70 kilometres. We want to play a key role in bringing craft beer to the area and raising awareness around it,” she said.

David Black is a longtime home brewer who has since completed the Federation University Graduate Certificate in Brewing.

He plans to brew a range of ales and lagers on a 1,200 litre brewhouse supplied by Premier Stainless, starting with a pale ale and golden ale.

“After almost six months of renovating the premises and installing the brewhouse, we are excited to have launched our initial beers,” he said.

The Coastal Brewing beers are available for tastings and take-away sales directly from the brewery, with wholesale trade to restaurants and bars soon to follow.

The brewery is located at 3 Dalman Street, Forster.

Brewery openings are presented by Spark Breweries and Distilleries, the finest in-venue and production brewing systems available, with local design and support.

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