Independent brewer, Beerfarm, continues to retain its authentic country charm as it aims to expand nationally. Image: Beerfarm
Beerfarm came into being in 2015 when five friends discovered a hidden gem of a property, formerly an old dairy farm, which inspired them to transform it into a tavern and build a brewery.
In the heart of Western Australia’s picturesque Margaret River region lies a hidden gem known as Beerfarm. Nestled in the rolling hills of Metricup, this craft brewery has become a beacon for beer enthusiasts seeking not only exceptional brews but also a genuine connection to the land and community.
The story of Beerfarm began in 2015, a time when the craft beer movement in Australia was gaining momentum.
“When we started the company, we set out with the goal to build cautiously and slowly, with growth in mind,” said Ian Atkins, co-founder of Beerfarm alongside George Scott, Craig Thommo, and Ben and Josh Thomas.
“The goal was not to create something quickly but to grow slowly and build a strong legacy.”
The group of friends shared passion for brewing and sustainability, so Beerfarm set out to create beers that not only delighted the palate but also respected the environment and gave the market what it wanted.
Atkins, who was also a co-founder of successful brewer, Young Henry’s, said the initial idea was to replicate that success in Western Australia.
“That didn’t work out at the time, which happens in business, so instead the 2.0 plan was put together and Beerfarm was born,” he said.
Situated on a historic property that once housed a dairy farm, the brewery embraced its rustic roots and transformed the old hay shed into a bustling hub of creativity and innovation.
“There was a lot of soul searching at the time, in terms of looking at how do we do things differently, what do we want to achieve, and ultimately what do we want the business to be,” said Atkins.
“We had the very bare bones, including a derelict piece of farming history in Western Australia. That was literally all we had, so it was a question of looking at what we could build form there, and that is also where our name comes from.”
From the outset, sustainability was woven into the fabric of Beerfarm’s ethos.
The founders were determined to minimise their environmental impact and maximise their positive contribution to the community.
“We aim to keep things very simple and are all about producing great, flavoursome products, and putting them out into the marketplace but from a country environment,” said Atkins.
For example, the team implemented water-saving technologies, reused spent grains to feed local livestock, and partnered with nearby farmers to source ingredients and minimise food miles.
This commitment to sustainability wasn’t just a box to tick—it was a way of life.
“We like to treat lightly on the land where we can and make sure to utilise what we have at our disposal,”
said Atkins.
“The vision was always to be able to deliver that same small producer feel but on a national scale.
In terms of product development, Beerfarm slowly expanded its product line to include limited edition and experimental brews, as well as traditional favourites.
They crafted a diverse range of brews, from hop-forward IPAs bursting with citrus and pine to smooth and malty stouts that warmed the soul on a chilly Margaret River evening.
Each beer told a story of craftsmanship, with carefully selected ingredients and a meticulous brewing process that honoured tradition while embracing experimentation.
Their dedication to quality and innovation was recognised with numerous awards and accolades, further solidifying their place in the Australian craft beer scene.
The brewery has most recently been awarded “Gold” for their IPL and IPA at the 2004 AIBAs and “2024 WA Beer of the Year” by the WA Good Food Guide for their IPL and Royal Haze ranking #14 in GABS 2024.
The timing of great word of mouth was perfect, with Beerfarm looking to take its next growth step by firstly expanding nationally, with dreams for international expansion after.
“We are currently working on getting a development application in New South Wales. We have a brewery ready to go but just need to make it through the bureaucracy,” said Atkins.
In the meantime, Atkins said, the company remains focused on other key areas of successful business growth. Namely talent acquisitions.
“There’s a combination of things that drive companies, one is obviously attracting Grade-A talent into the business, and growth in new areas,” he said
“This is who we are and what we want to be known for.”
Beerfarm recently hired experienced sales lead, Viren Goundrie, as its head of sales.
The news coincides with Beerfarm’s May acquisition of Feral Brewing’s Bassendean production facilities which is set to enable the business to more than triple its production capacity over the next five years.
“Along with several other recent appointments, it shows that Beerfarm is attracting national talent from across the beverage industry,” said Atkins.
“We’re aiming for growth and people are wanting to be a part of that story.”
“We have always brewed great beer and now we can deliver more of it. As part of our national expansion, we’re focused on fully cracking the national liquor distributors and Viren’s industry knowledge, experience, and strong connections will help us get there.”
The company’s commitment to the region extended beyond the brewery walls, creating a ripple effect of positivity that touched the lives of many.
Visitors from near and far flock to Beerfarm, not just for the beer, but for the entire experience.
The brewery offers tours where guests can see first-hand how their favourite brews are made, from grain to glass.
Through it all, the founders, and staff of Beerfarm remain true to their vision that good beer brings people together.
Atkins said one key element of Beerfarm’s future expansion is to retain that same feel, while also supplying to a larger market.
