Port Douglas' Newest Drawcard, Hemingway's Brewery
- Written by Pip Miller
Along with six signature ales, an exciting new energy has been untapped in Port Douglas this week with the highly anticipated opening of Hemingway's Brewery.
In advance of this weekend's Federal Election, the Hon. Warren Entsch, Member for Leichhardt paused briefly on the campaign trail to pay Port Douglas' newest drawcard a visit and congratulate owners' Tony Fyfe and Craig Parsell on their investment, vision and confidence in the region.
“When I officially opened an additional 30 new berths at the Marina last August, work on Hemingway's had just begun and now, just 10 months on, to see it in all its glory is a wonderful and impressive sight,” he said.
An integral part of The Reef Marina's multi-million dollar redevelopment, Hemingway's, as a world-class, waterfront venue, represents a welcome boost to Port Douglas' thriving visitor and events market providing 50 full-time jobs.
For the owners, the opening of Hemingway's brings to life a dream that stems from a love of Port Douglas, getting out on the water for a fish and of course, sharing stories over a top quality ale. The pair also own and operate Port Douglas' bespoke sport fishing charter business, Far North Sports Fishing established in 2013.
According to Mr Fyfe, Hemingway's incorporates two expansive levels with indoor and outdoor seating designed to make the absolute most of its uninterrupted 180 degree views of the Marina, entrance to the world-famous Great Barrier Reef and rainforest clad mountains.
“Craig and I envisaged a contemporary meeting place with all the tropical spirit and coastal charm of Port Douglas and its idyllic setting. We want Hemingway's Brewery to become part of the Port Douglas story – known near and far for its welcoming atmosphere, memorable service and authentic craft beer,” said Mr Fyfe.
Head brewer, Jared Stewart said his place at the helm of Hemingway's state-of-the-art microbrewer is a golden opportunity to let his creativity flow as freely as the amber liquid itself.
“My mission is simple; to perfect a range of bespoke craft brews that Port Douglas can be proud to call their own.”
Mr Stewart said Hemingway's craft beers were made with just four key ingredients – alongside yeast, the finest and freshest hops, base malts and the clear waters of Mossman Gorge for a beverage that is unfiltered, unpasteurised and preservative-free.
“Brewers within the craft beer industry are known for their passion and commitment to creating an ale that resonates with their fellow beer lovers who will savour the end product,” Mr Stewart said.
“Compared to commercially manufactured brands, craft beers have a refreshing complexity of flavours and provide a healthier, fresher alternative.”
Each signature ale was developed and brewed in-house to reflect a particular aspect of the region's past, ranging from the pioneering prospectors of the gold rush to the resilience shown in the wake of the devastating 1911 cyclone.
The launch range includes the IPA, Doug's Courage, named for the way heart prevailed over hurt as the town rebuilt after the tropical cyclones of 1911; while the signature pale ale, Pitchfork Betty's, was inspired by Old Betty Whiting, a former local publican who was best known for brandishing an iron pitchfork against unruly patrons.
Besides serving the freshest quality craft beer, Hemingway's offers an ale-matching menu of gourmet pizzas, tapas and BBQ-style food. The spacious surroundings and choice of indoor and outdoor areas with wide verandahs and bi-fold doors that can be closed for a fully air-conditioned venue make the 850 square metre Hemingway's a versatile and appealing venue that can cater up to 650 guests be it weddings, parties, meetings or any event.
The brewery's top floor, named Upstairs@Hemingway's includes a bar and event centre oriented towards the stunning views across the marina. The ground floor incorporates expansive garden bar and lounge bar areas.
