FOR a third year, the local beer and cider industry’s night of nights, The Beeries, will take place on Thursday 19 September 2019 at the Royal International Convention Centre with voting now open for the prestigious awards.

The event celebrates the good people in the beer and cider community and acknowledges the individuals who have demonstrated a commitment and outstanding contribution to the industry.

A total of nine awards will be presented on the night with eight of the winners determined by a two- step process which involves The Beeries advisory panel compiling a shortlist of finalists which is then released to the public and industry for voting.

The advisory panel consists of a team of notable industry experts including:

• Martin Keetels, founder of Redhair Events and Beer InCider Experience festival director
• Jayne Rutter, co-owner Helios Brewing Company and QLD state coordinator for Pink Boots Australia
• Les Riddell, manager My Beer Dealer – Beck McKinney, co-owner Netherworld
• Matt Emmerson, co-owner Brewski
• Hugh Doyle, Stone & Wood team leader for Brisbane & Sunshine Coast
• George Levi, KAIJU! Beer
• Rory Gibson, Courier Mail journalist

Mr Keetels says the event provides a once-a-year opportunity for the beer and cider industry’s leaders to get together and to be acknowledged for their efforts.

“We’ve been extremely lucky to add Jayne from Helios Brewing, Beck from Netherworld and George from KAIJU! Beer to our advisory committee.

“All three have provided an injection of fresh ideas to The Beeries.” says Mr Keetels.

“The Beeries has transitioned from an interesting concept to a fixture of Australia’s beer calendar.

“In 2019, we’re expecting our best Beeries yet with all award categories hotly contested!”

Awards include Best Beer Tender, Best Beer Retailer, Best Brewer/Cider Maker, Best Brewery/Cidery Rep, Best New Brewery (opened within the past 12 months) and the most notable, The Gold Beery for the Best Community Contributor.

This year’s awards will also see the addition of two new categories including Best New Venue and Best Brew List.

The only award that remains in the hands of advisory panel is the Special Achievement Award which recognises an individual for their involvement in and contribution to the growth and development of the beer and cider community.

Previous recipients have included Matt Kirkegaard and Russell Steele.

To see this year’s nominees visit www.thebeeries.com

Tickets to The Beeries are $135 each or $125 each for eight or more (must be purchased in one booking).

Ticket price includes canapes and welcome drinks sponsored by Diablo Ginger Beer followed by dinner, an incredible drinks package, live music, raffles and more.

All proceeds raised from the event will be donated to not-for-profit organisation, Brewsvegas.

For more information on The Beeries, to vote or purchase tickets visit www.thebeeries.com.