Hard earned beverage for South West firies

• article written by the Margaret River Mail

Breweries from the South West region of Western Australia have banded together to say thank you to local fire brigades.

On May 24, the breweries met at Cheeky Monkey Brewing Co Vasse to brew a one-off beer, of which all proceeds will be donated to the local fire department.

Artisan Brewing from Denmark, Bootleg Brewery, Cheeky Monkey Brewing Co, Eagle Bay Brewing Co, Rocky Ridge Brewing Co, Cowaramup Brewing Co and Wildhop Brewing Co from Margaret River all donated their time on the day.

The group said South West firefighters had put their lives on the line countless times in a region where fires had caused devastation, including the loss of the Ellersie hops farm and a fire on the family property of Cheeky Monkey Managing Director Brent Burton.

Richard Moroney, captain of the Rosa Brook Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade said the dedication from firefighters came down to a passion for serving their communities.

“Giving to our community is something that comes from the heart of all volunteers. We do this not just because it’s the right thing to do: we do it because we want do it out of love for our respective communities,” he said.

“Thanks to the South West brewers and all involved in this project, you’re a great bunch and this initiative is a great thing to be part of.”

The beer, named ‘Firefighters Friend’ is a session-able 4.5% ABV Red Ale and will be released during WA Beer Week, held from June 20 to June 30.

“The challenge was to brew a beer that the firefighters could use to quench their thirst, while still keeping craft beer enthusiast interested,” said Brent Burton.

Artisan Brewing helped with some yeast, while Ellersie Hops donated most ingredients for the beer after their headquarters burnt down last year.

“Following our own devastating fire at the hop farm last April, we were very happy to be given the opportunity to get involved,” said Ellersie Hop Estate’s Patrick-James Matan. “As well as benefitting the brave men and women who voluntarily fight fires in the South West, this collaboration brew should be a cracking addition to WA Beer Week.”

Firefighters Friend will be available in 375ml cans and in kegs, pouring at numerous venues in Perth and the South West. Proceeds will be used to purchase new firefighting equipment.