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Ask a Brewer | Episode 3

Welcome back to Ask a Brewer, our Q&A series where head brewer Caolan dives into the questions you’ve always wanted to ask.

In this episode, Caols squeezes into the citrusy world of our Citrus Radler, from what makes Stone & Wood’s take so zesty, to how it’s brewed for ultimate refreshment, and of course, what to do when life hands you lemons 🍋

Whether you’re a beer nerd or just keen to know what goes into your can, this one’s a goodie. Got a question for Caolan?

Drop it in the comments and you might see it featured in the next episode!

Reading times: 2 mins

Ask a Brewer | Episode 3

Welcome back to Ask a Brewer, our Q&A series where head brewer Caolan dives into the questions you’ve always wanted to ask. In this episode, Caols squeezes into the citrusy...

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Stone & Wood Adventure Fund: WIN 1 of 5 $10,000 Adventures

Enter now

 

Set Your Aussie Adventure Free. Stone & Wood is giving away $50K in Travel Grants to 5 lucky people.

We all dream of stepping outside our comfort zone and embarking on a wild outdoor adventure that gives us bragging rights from now through retirement. 

But too often, we file those dreams under ‘maybe one day’ and before we know it the ‘let’s go’ spirit turns into a slightly deflated ‘should have gone’ attitude.
It was this realisation that sparked an idea amongst the Stone & Wood team:
What if we could help give people the nudge to make that ‘maybe one day’ adventure actually happen?

We are beyond thrilled to introduce the Stone & Wood Adventure Fund — an initiative to keep the Australian adventure spirit alive by giving five people a $10,000 grant each to chase their wildest Aussie travel dreams!

 

Stone & Wood Adventure Fund

Enter now

Between 1 October 2024 - 31 January 2025 we are putting the call out and we want to hear from you. What’s your dream Australian adventure? Swimming with whale sharks at Ningaloo Reef? Sailing around the country or maybe get on a bike and ride across it? Would you go canyoning in the Blue Mountains or surfing at Snapper, or Byron Bay? It’s time to fire up your imagination and think big!

Alongside the five $10,000 travel grants, we also have amazing prizes up for grabs, from Wildearth, Sea to Summit, Sahara and Dometic, to be won at participating venues and bottleshops.

The Adventure Fund will run throughout the Aussie summer, from 1 October to 31 January.
To enter, simply purchase a Stone & Wood beer at any bottle shop or venue where it’s available, and tell us where you want to go and why. It’s as easy as that.

Five lucky winners will soon embark on an ultimate adventure, thanks to Stone & Wood, with the all-action captured and shared across the brewery’s channels.

Head to the competition page and tell us your dream Aussie adventure to enter now!
Grab a brew and start planning your ultimate Aussie escape.

Reading times: 2 mins

Stone & Wood Adventure Fund: WIN 1 of 5 $10,000...

Adventure is calling, and we’ve got $50,000 worth of epic journeys to give away! Tell us your dream Aussie adventure for a chance to win 1 of 5 $10K trips.

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Set Your Wanderlust Free with Backpack West Coast IPA

The Backpack West Coast IPA

Knapsack rangers and rucksack jockeys, set your wanderlust free with the The Backpack West Coast IPA. This bright, tropical and sessionable brew captures the essence of coastal adventures and the spirit of collaboration. The Backpack beer is the big and juicy second instalment of our partnership with the crew at Mountain Culture. Inspired by their bold American brewing techniques and our shared origin in, and passion for, vibrant backpack towns this approachable 6% ABV tipple is brewed with Idaho, Amarillo and Galaxy hops and bursts with flavours of mango, citrus and stone fruit.

 The Backpack West Coast IPA has you covered from the mountains to the sea and is brewed with your inner nomad in mind.

From The Mountains To The Sea – The Spirit of Collaboration

When our brewers met DJ, the Mountain Culture head brewer it was a match made in hop-heaven. Originally from Asheville, North Carolina, DJ refined his craft in Colorado before taking his love for fresh beer and crisp mountain air to the Blue Mountains of Katoomba, NSW.

We quickly bonded over a shared passion for epic nature, good times and even better beers – and it was not long before the idea of a collab was inevitable. With both Mountain Culture and Stone & Wood hailing from quaint backpacker towns filled with colourful characters and vibrant energies, the stage was set for an epic, two-part collaboration. Our journey began with a team visit to the Blue Mountains and resulted in the mountain edition of the Backpack Ale, where the Mountain Culture brewers gave us their beautiful twist on the Original Pacific Ale.

A few short months later, it was our turn to bring the MC team from the peaks to the sea with our own creation – The Backpack Westcoast IPA. We spent a few stunning days together finding waves and swapping brewing tales while blending American and Australian hops into this beautiful spin on their big, delicious IPAs. 

 

Being our first-ever brewery collab, we could not be more honoured and excited to team up with the amazingly skilled and epically awesome crew at Mountain Culture.

With their influence and our shared passion for great brewing, we think this beer is nothing short of extraordinary. Enjoy!

Shop Backpack West Coast IPA here

 

Reading times: 2 mins

Set Your Wanderlust Free with Backpack West Coa...

A Stone & Wood x Mountain Culture Backpack Collaboration series. Introducing Backpack West Coast IPA

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From Canyons to Coastlines: Our Epic Surf Session with Mountain Culture Beer Co

Brewing good beer is always fun, but throwing in a little stitch up and some banter makes it even better!

Back in March, our mates at Mountain Culture invited us to the stunning Blue Mountains to team up on a brewing adventure. We crafted the first beer in The collab series: a smooth, sessionable Hazy Pale Ale we’d appropriately name Backpack Ale with both breweries hailing from Australian backpacking regions.

But it wasn’t all just brewing. The Mountain Culture Crew decided to up the ante by taking us on a wild canyoning escapade. Picture this: heavy rain, being hurled over a thundering waterfall, and racing through fast-moving rapids. The first of a handful of stitch ups yet come throughout the collab.

In true collab style, it was our turn to host and return the favour. We were pumped to welcome the Mountain Culture Crew to Byron Bay and show them what the Northern Rivers is all about. 🤙🏻 Surf ups!

Since it was their first time surfing, the boys took some heavy wipeouts, but their ambitious spirits threw them back on the board to get back out there and catch a few more. We wrapped up the session with some ice cold Stone & Wood Pacific Ales. Then, it was back to the brewery to dive into brewing our own addition to The Backpack Ale series.

When our brewers met DJ, the head brewer at Mountain Culture, it was like a match made in hop heaven. DJ, originally from North Carolina, polished his brewing skills in Colorado before bringing his love for fresh beer to the Blue Mountains of Katoomba, NSW. We quickly bonded over our love for epic nature, good times, and great beers, and it wasn’t long before we knew we had to collaborate.

With both Mountain Culture and Stone & Wood coming from vibrant, backpacker-friendly towns, it was a no-brainer to create something special together. So, check out the second beer in our collab: the Backpack Ale West Coast IPA. It’s available for a limited time at select bottleshops, pubs, our breweries, and online September 12th. Cheers to an epic two-part collaboration!

Reading times: 2 mins

From Canyons to Coastlines: Our Epic Surf Sessi...

A Stone & Wood x Mountain Culture Collaboration Series. Introducing Backpack Ale West Coast IPA

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Our Favourite Markets in the Northern Rivers

When it comes to farmers’ markets, we’re spoiled for choice here in the Northern Rivers. Some of Australia’s most well-regarded markets are right here in our backyard, so it feels fitting that we share our guide to the best markets in the Northern Rivers.

Directly supporting local farmers and craftsmen, snagging great value goods, and building community connections – what’s not to love about that?

Weekly Farmer’s Markets

For some of the freshest produce and food our fertile lands have to offer, the farmers markets in the Northern Rivers area are the perfect place to pick up your essentials (while also supporting local farmers).

Byron Bay Farmers Market

Find these markets brimming with local produce on Butler Street Reserve, Thursdays between 7am-11am. Plenty of street parking can be found nearby, such as behind Rails and at Lawson Street South car park.

Image credit

Lismore Farmers’ Market

Saturday mornings between 7:30am-11:30am. The Lismore Farmers’ Market are held at the Lismore Showgrounds in North Lismore.

The Lismore Farmers’ Market is especially well-known for its gardening section, with a wide range of plants, mulch and more on offer to support your home garden.

Find plenty of parking, as well as live music, entertainment, and plenty of seasonal offerings.

Nimbin Farmers’ Market

Find these markets on every Wednesday afternoon between 3pm-6pm. Find these markets in between the green bank and the post office on Main Street.

Hot tip: don’t forget to bring your honey jars to refill!

Kyogle Farmers’ Markets

Every Saturday between 8am-12pm. Find a wealth of organic produce, fresh seafood and nuts in a mostly undercover area (in case the rain rolls in). Find these markets on Stratheden Street!

Ballina Farmers and Producers Market

Located right by the beautiful Richmond River, Ballina’s Farmers and Producers Markets are on every Sunday morning between 7am-11am in Commemoration Park (right next to the Missingham Bridge).

Find a wide range of locally grown produce and fresh foods, including artisanal baked goods and cheeses. Some onsite parking available, but there’s plenty of nearby street parking too.

Image credit

Murwillumbah Farmers’ Markets

The Murbah Farmers’ Market is open for business every Wednesday between 7am-11am at the Murwillumbah Showground. From humble beginnings in 2011, the market has since grown to around 50 stalls, packed full of organic produce, bread and other fresh goods.

Hot tip: Look out for our friends at Summit Organics when visiting. They make use of some of our brewing by-products to replenish their soil. Read more on regenerative farming here!

Monthly Markets

With something for everyone, the following selection of monthly markets are the perfect family day out. Expect to find fresh food, gifts, art, entertainment – and everything in between.

Byron Community Market

Found right in Byron’s town centre, the Byron Community Market is on the first Sunday of each month, open from 8am-3pm.

The community markets provide a welcoming atmosphere and a glimpse into the authentic culture of Byron. Be mindful of road closures when they’re on!

Bangalow Markets

The Bangalow Markets are huge, usually boasting over 300 stalls. Occurring on the 4th Sunday of every month between 9am-3pm at the showgrounds, these markets have an abundance of fresh fruit, coffee, jewellery, handmade goods, flowers and much more.

Showground parking is available for cheap, or you can try your luck with street parking. A portion of each month’s market’s profit is also donated to local community groups.

Image credit

Makers & Finders Market Murwillumbah

The 3rd Saturday of each month, from 9am-2pm. Located in Knox Park, Murwillumbah.

The Makers & Finders Market is a celebration of sustainable living, with great emphasis placed on pre-loved and vintage goods. This pairs with a big offering of local produced art, produce and food items.

Hot tip: Just across the road is the M-Arts Precinct, an institution for local artists to gather, showcase their work and run workshops. Check it out while you’re nearby.

Brunswick Heads Market

The first Saturday of every month brings the Brunswick Heads Market with it, running from around 8am-2pm. Find these markets held in Memorial Park on Fawcett Street.

Perfect for a family day out, the Brunswick Heads Markets are situated right by the Brunswick River with some playgrounds and grassed areas for relaxing after you have a wander.

The Channon Craft Market

On the 2nd Sunday of the month, you’ll find the Channon Craft Market open from 8am. After quickly outgrowing their original location, The Channon Craft Market can now be found in Coronation Park, The Channon.

These historic markets have been around since 1976 and have their claim as the longest-running markets in Northern New South Wales. ‘Make it, Bake it, Grow it’ has been their mantra since their start, with the organisers committed to prioritising locally-made food, goods and art.

Reading times: 2 mins

Our Favourite Markets in the Northern Rivers

Directly supporting local farmers and craftsmen, snagging great value goods, and building community connections – what’s not to love about that?

Read story
Murbah Open Day 2024: Celebrating 10 Years of Brewing in Murwillumbah

Stone & Wood presents…

MURBAH OPEN DAY 2024

PROGRAM – MUSIC | FOOD | MARKETS
Celebrating 10 Years of Brewing in Murwillumbah
Saturday 3 August, 11am – 5pm
Stone & Wood is throwing open the doors of their Murwillumbah brewery this Saturday, marking a decade of boutique brews with their popular Murbah Open Day.
With the celebration now just days away, Stone & Wood is thrilled to announce the full program of music, food, markets and more that will keep the community entertained and satiated from 11am – 5pm this Saturday 3 August.
MT WARNING – DAN HANNAFORD – YAZMINDI + DJ ASHTON
MT Warning has released three albums to rave reviews including the much-streamed track ‘Sinking Sun’. He’s played festivals both in Australia and abroad including spots on Splendour in the Grass, Laneway Festival, SXSW and UK’s Field Day and toured with likes of The Temper Trap and Gang of Youths. Currently playing a run of sold-out dates of his theatre show The Magic of The Mundane, we’re thrilled to have MT Warning at Murbah Open Day!
Born the Son of a preacher, Dan Hannaford’s love of music started with listening to hymns and playing the drums in church as a child. By his teens, he found Rock & Roll and formed his first band. Since then, Hannaford has earned a reputation as one of the hardest working, independent solo musicians on the East Coast and graced hundreds of stages around Australia including Falls Festival, Party in the Paddock, National Folk Festival, Gympie Music Muster and Tamworth Country Music Festival to name a few.
Whether performing at South by Southwest in Austin, Texas (twice), Woodford Folk Festival or supporting Aussie icons such as Megan Washington and Troy Cassar-Daley, singer-songwriter Yazmindi’s authentic sound and evocative stories are always a crowd favourite. With gorgeous vocals, acoustic guitar, her signature harmonica flair and stomp box – Yazmindi is the breath of fresh air we all need to kick off Murbah Open Day 2024!
Plus vinyl DJ Ashton will be spinning a set of his signature smooth groove with lounge vibes that are super fun for the whole family and local legend Shorty Brown will keep the kids entertained with big bubbles, magic, silly games, facepainting and more. 
Those in need of sustenance at Murbah Open Day are in for a treat with some very tasty options available. From handmade and freshly baked Byron Bay Pretzels to artisan pizza from Gunter’s Flammkuchen and delicious wurst from The Kranski Sisters food truck, you won’t go hungry! Plus, masters of the grill, The BBQ Roadshow will be on ground serving up their finest and the local Lions Club on the tongs at the Sausage Sizzle.
Need a bit of retail therapy? Wander the market stalls for everything from vintage apparel to swimwear, socks and bags, handmade jams, jellies, chutneys and sauces, and even skincare.
On that note, Skin Check Champions will be onsite at Murbah Open Day offering free skin checks to the community. Tweed and Byron are hot spots for melanoma, so this is an excellent opportunity to get checked!
Entry to Murbah Open Day 2024 is via gold coin donation and all profits will once again raise funds for Wedgetail Retreat, which provides free palliative care to the Northern Rivers community. Operating without government funding, Wedgetail relies on the support of its community to keep its doors open and continue with the excellent care they provide.
Regular bus transfers will be available to and from locations around Murwillumbah and Tweed, for just $5 each way. Check the website for routes and pick up/drop off times. Bookings are essential.
You know what you’re doing this Saturday!
See you there!

MURBAH OPEN DAY 2024 | Saturday 3 August

TOURS | MARKETS | FOOD | MUSIC | BREWS
5 Kite Cres, South Murwillumbah Entry by gold coin donation
Reading times: 2 mins

Murbah Open Day 2024: Celebrating 10 Years of B...

Stone & Wood presents… MURBAH OPEN DAY 2024 PROGRAM – MUSIC | FOOD | MARKETS Celebrating 10 Years of Brewing in Murwillumbah Saturday 3 August, 11am – 5pm Stone &...

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Our Guide to Australia’s Beer Sizes and Names

Need answers now? Click here to be taken to our beer size cheat sheet down the page.

If you've travelled Australia, you might have experienced the perplexity of different beer sizes, shapes, and names across state lines.

Just like the never-ending ‘parma or parmy’ debate, the naming conventions of our beers can confuse even the most seasoned beer drinker when visiting interstate.

Let’s dive into how each state in Australia names their beer sizes.

New South Wales’ beer sizes

We’ll start with our birthplace, the great state of New South Wales. We’re a little biased, but these sizes make the most sense to us.

The most standard size to order is the humble schooner, clocking in at 425mL. This is largely the same across all of Australia (looking at you, South Australia) and is a popular choice across the country. Not too big, not too small, just right.

Slightly larger in size is the pint, which holds 570mL. For quenching a more serious thirst, a pint is another very popular choice.

Larger still is the jug, with the standard size of 1,140mL in New South Wales. The jug is perfect for pouring yourself and a friend a pint each, or just under three schooners. The jug’s size is standard across the country.

Our middy is the smallest standard size that you can expect to order, making it ideal for those who have just come down for one. This comes in at 285mL.

We’ve also got our uniquely named schmiddy, a 350mL glass that sits in between the schooner and middy. Buy a pair of schmiddy glasses from our online store today.

Man pours a middy into a Stone & Wood glass

Pictured: A middy of Green Coast lager is poured at our Byron brewery.

Queensland’s beer sizes

Queensland’s different beer sizes are named largely the same as in New South Wales.

Queensland shares the same schooner size as NSW, coming in at 425mL and a pint is also 570mL, the same as most other states, and their jug is 1,140mL. 

Where Queensland might differ from your home is with their smaller size, with the 285mL largely referred to as a pot instead of a middy.

Victoria’s beer sizes

Exploring further south, Victoria is again fairly similar to Queensland and New South Wales.

A schooner is the same at 425mL, and a pint is also 570mL. Asking for a pot of beer will get you a 285mL sized serving. Jugs remain the same, coming in at 1,140mL.

Asking for a glass of beer in some places in Melbourne will get you a 200mL size, even smaller than the more standard pot.

Hot tip: Victorians will tell you that if you don’t specify a size, it’s likely you’ll be poured a pot. Most other states default to a 425mL schooner.

South Australia’s beer sizes

Here’s where things get a little confusing. South Australia is by far the most unique of all states, with names that are widely accepted elsewhere in the country as one size referring to a smaller size in this region.

In Adelaide and surrounds, the standard and most common size is the pint, coming in at 425mL. This is not to be confused with the imperial pint, which comes in at the size of 570mL. Their most widely accepted small size is called a schooner and comes in at 285mL.

While these all differ from other states, the ever-reliable jug remains the same at 1,140mL.

The Northern Territory’s beer sizes

The Northern Territory’s more tropical weather makes larger sizes slightly less popular to the average drinker, as they go warm quick if not enjoyed fast enough.

Ask for a handle of beer if you’re after a 285mL, smaller beer to enjoy (although middy or pot are generally accepted too). These may come with a handle, so you don’t warm the beer too quickly holding it in your hand.

Schooners are the same as most other regions of Australia, coming in at 425mL. Pints and jugs are also the same at 570mL and 1,140mL.

Tasmania’s beer sizes

The Tassie pint remains unchanged to most other states, coming in at 570mL.

Tasmania’s name for their 285mL beer size is either pot or ten depending on who you speak to, with the name ten coming from the fact that 285mL is ten ounces of liquid. In keeping with this theme, a 425mL beer is referred to as either a schooner or a fifteen.

Western Australia’s beer sizes

Just like New South Wales, a middy is the most common name for a 285mL beer in Perth and surrounds. You might also hear this being referred to as a half-pint.

After this, the schooner (425mL), the pint (570mL) and the jug (1,140mL) remain the same as the rest of the country.

Australian Capital Territory’s beer sizes

Similarly to Western Australia, the capital also refers to 285mL beers as a middy or a half-pint. Double this in size for a standard pint at 570mL, with the schooner coming in at the mostly standard 425mL.

Our Australian beer size cheat sheet

To recap, there’s a lot of variation. It’s not an exact science, with differences by region and even each venue.

By and large, jugs, pints and schooners are a pretty universally understood size (except in SA), with most of the smaller options often having a name unique to the region.

 

NSW QLD VIC  SA NT TAS WA ACT
200mL - - glass - - - - -
285mL middy pot pot schooner handle (or middy/pot) pot (or ten) middy middy (or half-pint)
350mL schmiddy - - - - - - -
425mL schooner schooner schooner pint schooner schooner (or fifteen) schooner schooner
570mL pint pint pint imperial  pint pint pint pint pint
1,140mL jug jug jug jug jug jug jug jug

 

As Aussies, we’re a diverse bunch. Our unique ways of enjoying beer are a perfect metaphor for our unique geography and people, and at Stone & Wood we think that’s more than worth celebrating.

So, whatever size glass you choose to drink from, raise it with us in celebrating the different ways in which Aussies enjoy their beer.

Find our range of beer available for purchase online, including the Stone & Wood core range and our limited releases. We also have a range of merchandise (including beer glasses)!

Reading times: 5 mins

Our Guide to Australia’s Beer Sizes and Names

We've broken down the different names and sizes of beers you can expect to find across the country. Read on for more.

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Stouts & Porters: What’s The Difference?

The Origins of Stouts & Porters

Stouts have a storied history that stretches all the way back to 18th century England. Originally, the term stout was used to describe strong, hearty porters – but over the years, stouts evolved into their own distinct category. They're both characterised by their robust flavours, slightly higher alcohol content, and the use of roasted barley, which adds that signature dark colour and that complex, roasty and toasty aroma.

It’s this warm and comforting flavour profile that makes these dark brews such a perfect fit for the winter months, making them a popular choice as the mercury drops.

The Australian craft industry has embraced these dark and full-bodied beers. Today, you’ll find stouts of all kinds crafted with a uniquely Aussie twist, incorporating local ingredients and flavours that make them truly our own.

Stout vs. Porter: What’s The Difference?

Alright, craft beer lovers, let’s dive into the age-old debate: what sets a stout apart from a porter? These two dark and delicious brews often get confused, and for good reason. They share a common history and a similar flavour profile, but there are key differences that beer enthusiasts should know.

The Origins of Their Names

The name "porter" itself comes from the hardworking porters who favoured this hearty brew. Stouts, originally known as "stout porters," were simply stronger versions of porters. Over time, stouts have evolved into their own distinct style.

The Different Brewing Processes

The key difference between a stout and a porter lies in the ingredients and brewing techniques. Stouts typically use roasted barley, which gives them that signature dark colour and robust, coffee-like flavour. Porters, on the other hand, often use malted barley, resulting in a smoother, more chocolatey taste.

Flavour Profiles of Stouts and Porters

Stouts

So, what makes a stout a stout? At its core, a stout is defined by its use of roasted malt or barley, which gives it that deep, dark colour and rich, robust flavour profile. When you pour a stout, you’re greeted with a thick, creamy head, and as you take that first sip, expect to encounter notes of coffee, chocolate, and sometimes even a hint of burnt toast – a unique delight that’s both comforting and complex.

But it’s not just the taste that sets stouts apart. The mouthfeel of a stout is often velvety and smooth, sometimes with a slight sweetness or a bitter finish, depending on the specific style. From dry stouts like the always recognisable Guinness, to the sweeter and more decadent milk stouts, there’s a stout for everyone.

Common food pairings with stouts include chocolate desserts, grilled meats and sharp cheeses, all of which complement the complex flavours well.

Porters

The flavour profile of porters is typically smoother and more approachable flavour to the boldness of stouts. When you pour a porter, you’ll notice its deep brown to black colour and a more subtle head.

The first sip of a porter often reveals a balance of chocolate, caramel, and toffee notes, with a roasted finish that’s less intense than a stout. Porters tend to have a medium body, offering a rich yet smoother mouthfeel that’s easier on the palate. They can range from the robust Baltic porters to the lighter, more easy-going brown porters, providing a spectrum of flavours for different tastes.

Food pairings that pair well with porters include barbecued meats, roast vegetables and even nutty desserts such as pecan pie.

Stone Beer 2024

Our own unique take on a wood-fired porter, our annual Stone Beer for 2024 is now available online and in select pubs and bottle shops.

Incorporating notes of roasted coffee, dark chocolate and smoky Macadamia, our 6% ABV Stone Beer is best paired with delicious BBQ meats, ribs and hearty stews around a campfire with good company. Rug up and enjoy today!

Reading times: 3 mins

Stouts & Porters: What’s The Difference?

Alright, craft beer lovers, let’s dive into the age-old debate: what sets a stout apart from a porter?

Read story
Stone & Wood 2023 Beer As A Force For Good Report

Reflecting on our work over the past year

Today is World Environmental Day, more than a day to do ‘good’, we think of today as a moment to pause and reflect on our work over the past year. As a company founded on the idea of using beer as a force for good, we’re always always looking at ways to reduce our impact, and be of better service to the environment that supports us.

Across the board we are committed to reducing our environmental footprint and improving our practices. In order to keep track of our journey, hold ourselves accountable, and share our learnings with the community – each year we release our Beer As A Force For Good report. This report is open to the public so you can gain a better understanding of where we are as company, and where our focus is for the future. We believe learnings are best when shared and we love having a beer and a yarn about how we can better use beer as a force for good.

Some highlights over the past year include:

  • We released NRB, Northern Rivers Beer, to the public, which is our first beer made from Certified Sustainable Ingredients. NRB is currently only available in the Northern Rivers region but is an exciting testament to our ambition for the future of sustainable brewing.
  • In 2023 we diverted 90.8 percent of waste (excluding spent grain) from landfill. This is a 5.5% improvement from 2022.
  • At Murwillumbah brewery, thanks to re-using treated wastewater with a UFRO system (Ultra-Filtration Reverse Osmosis system) and capturing water from our bottle rinse and pipe it through our refrigeration system and re-using cleaning chemicals recovered through a CIP system, we are stoked to be 20 percent lower than industry averages for our water usage for the year. 
  • We are 32% lower than industry averages for our purchased electricity consumption this year. This is something we are super proud of for the period. At our Murbah site we run a 100kW solar system on our brewery roof and the Byron Brewery roof we run a 80kw solar system.

  • This contributed to a carbon emission reduction in 2023 equivalent to an approximate planting of 2,630 trees.
  • We are also pleased to announce that in 2023 our Murwillumbah brewery became certified under ISO14001, reflecting a robust and comprehensive environmental management system embedded across our main production site.

Read the full 2023 Beer As A Force For Good Report here.

ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF COUNTRY

‘Ngalingaa Jagun Gunuul, Arakwal Jagun’ By Nickolla Clark “The artwork brings forward Bundjalung stories, Arakwal Country is well known as a meeting place for all of Bundjalung. Many tribes, would walk, rest and gather here. They walked on songlines, singing in language following the escarpments of Koonyum Range to the shorelines of Tallows and to far north Queensland for the Bunya Nut festival. They walked the Brunswick River on low tide, they twisted their feet in the sand to collect yugari (pippis). Together they shared culture and danced on this sacred ground. This painting highlights the landscape of Byron Bay, where the rainforest meets the sea and lifestyle and culture is hidden within. Arakwal Country is an abundant and versatile place, a marker telling you where you are”.

We acknowledge the First Nations people, the custodians of this beautiful Country. We pay respects to Elders past, present and emerging. We recognise that Indigenous peoples have protected the land, sea, and waterways for tens
of thousands of years. We show our gratitude for these strong foundations from the past and embrace guidance for the future.

‘Ngalingaa Jagun Gunuul, Arakwal Jagun’ By Nickolla Clark, a new artwork on display at Stone & Wood Byron Bay

“The artwork brings forward Bundjalung stories, Arakwal Country is well known as a meeting place for all of Bundjalung. Many tribes, would walk, rest and gather here. They walked on songlines, singing in language following the escarpments of Koonyum Range to the shorelines of Tallows and to far north Queensland for the Bunya Nut festival. They walked the Brunswick River on low tide, they twisted their feet in the sand to collect yugari (pippis). Together they shared culture and danced on this sacred ground. This painting highlights the landscape of Byron Bay, where the rainforest meets the sea and lifestyle and culture is hidden within. Arakwal Country is an abundant and versatile place, a marker telling you where you are”.

Reading times: 2 mins

Stone & Wood 2023 Beer As A Force For Good Report

Reflecting on our work over the past year Today is World Environmental Day, more than a day to do ‘good’, we think of today as a moment to pause and...

Read story
Festival of The Stone 2024 Set Times

FESTIVAL OF THE STONE 2024

DAN SULTAN – BEDDY RAYS – THE BEEFS – VERGE COLLECTION
AKA LUI – MID DRIFT

Listen to our 2024 Festival of The Stone Playlist here.

Saturday 1 June, Byron Bay

Final Tickets ON SALE NOW

Music lovers of Byron and beyond, in just a few days’ time, a brilliant bunch of artists will arrive in the Bay, ready to roll out set after killer set at Festival of the Stone 2024. Yep, this Saturday 1 June, Stone & Wood’s Byron Bay Brewery is the place you’ll want to be, ready to welcome Winter with music, community and the best brews.

Set times are a go!

 

Why do we celebrate Festival of The Stone every year?

Festival of the Stone 2024 will raise money for Byron Shire homeless hub, Fletcher Street Cottage. Byron Shire’s homelessness rate is currently the highest in NSW and Fletcher Street Cottage provides support, information, referral and advocacy to people at risk of homelessness and those already sleeping rough.

Festival of the Stone began as a celebration of Stone & Wood’s annual release of Stone Beer and the first tapping of the keg. The 2024 Stone Beer brew is a wood-fired porter ideal for chilly winter nights. A nod to medieval brewing, it’s a tradition held dear since Stone & Wood’s humble beginnings, seventeen years ago.

Every May since Stone & Wood began, alongside others in the brewing industry, Stone & Wood brews its woodfired porter Stone Beer in preparation for winter. This is called Stone Brew Day. A decadent porter with dark roasted malts is brewed to give coffee and dark chocolate flavours to the beer. Then, on an open fire, volcanic stones sourced from the nearby hinterland are heated, before being lowered, glowing-red into the kettle, which lends smoky caramel notes to the beer. The moment the woodfired stones touch the wort with a loud hisss is a moment for celebration. A month later, Stone Beer is tapped at the annual Festival of the Stone, where the community comes together to enjoy fresh beer, live music, good food and winter cheer.

What food will be at Festival of The Stone?

Those in need of sustenance at Festival of the Stone are in for a treat with some very tasty options available. From handmade and freshly baked Byron Bay Pretzels to artisan pizza from Gunter’s Flammkuchen and delicious wurst from The Kranski Sisters food truck, you won’t go hungry! Plus, masters of the grill, Traegar will be on ground doing BBQ demos and sampling.

Festival of The Stone is Family Friendly!

Bringing the ankle biters along? Festival of the Stone has that covered too with Malt Disney Art & Craft Zone. Malt Disney is a free style creative area where kids can let their maker imagination run wild with paints, collage, mask making, drawing, crown creating, play doh and more. Plus there’s garden games galore to keep them engaged and burning up that energy!

For the easiest access to Festival of the Stone, catch the Festival Shuttle Service. For up-to-date information about road closures, parking and bus services check out the FAQ section on the website.

Final tickets on sale now. You know what to do!

FESTIVAL OF THE STONE

Saturday 1 June, 2024
Centennial Circuit, Byron Bay (Cavanbah)

TICKETS

Final tickets ON SALE NOW: $60 (18+) | $30 (12-17) | free under 12

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Festival of The Stone 2024 Set Times

FESTIVAL OF THE STONE 2024 DAN SULTAN – BEDDY RAYS – THE BEEFS – VERGE COLLECTIONAKA LUI – MID DRIFT Listen to our 2024 Festival of The Stone Playlist here....

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Festival of the Stone Returns for 2024 – Bigger & Better Than Ever!

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Stone & Wood is thrilled to confirm the return of Festival of the Stone, a celebration of music, community and ancient brewing tradition, that will welcome Winter to Byron Bay on Saturday 1 June.



The 10th instalment of Festival of the Stone will see Byron locals and visitors gather to take in a major lineup of music, tantalising tastes and witness the annual unveiling of the 2024 batch of Stone Beer, while also raising much needed funds for local homeless hub, Fletcher Street Cottage. Wins all round!

Get ready to spend Saturday 1 June with…


DAN SULTAN – BEDDY RAYS – THE BEEFS – VERGE COLLECTION
AKA LUI – MID DRIFT

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Image credit: Imani Givertz


One of Australia’s most loved singer-songwriters Dan Sultan’s trophy shelf holds an incredible 7 ARIA Awards, alongside NIMA Awards, Top 5 ARIA-charting albums, and an ARIA-certified gold record. With countless sold-out headline shows in his wake, he’s also toured with the likes of Bruce Springsteen, Midnight Oil and Vance Joy, and played Australia’s biggest festivals including Splendour in the Grass, Blues Festival and Falls to name a few. He’ll add Festival of the Stone to that list on 1 June!


It’s almost impossible not to recognise a Beddy Rays track, a carefully curated recipe involving all the right ingredients: heartfelt lyrics, huge hooks, mosh-worthy riffs and a lingering sense of comradery and good vibes that underpins everything they create. It’s seen them land plays on triple j’s Hottest 100 and Hottest 100 Like a Versions of all time, an ARIA nomination for ‘Breakthrough Artist’ and spots on festivals around the country. With a knack for knowing how to have a bloody good time, everyone wants to be friends with Beddy Rays.


Ultimate purveyors "pub-pop" goodness, The Beefs founded their musical haven in 2018 when frontman Sammy Smith decided to round up some talented mates and cook up a musical feast for the ages. In the kitchen of their tunes, you'll find a dash of infectious pop melodies and a sprinkle of rock 'n' roll charm. Marinated together with catchy hooks and relatable lyrics, and voilà - you've got the signature sound of The Beefs. It's the kind of music that'll make you want to hoist a pint in one hand and dance with a mate in the other.


Hailing from Perth, VERGE COLLECTION balance classic pop sensibilities with working class poetry to channel the collective conscious of suburban Australian milennials. Songwriter and front-man Ben Arnold’s songs have the ability to hoist you high to the point of chills and a stupid grin, before making you plummet just as quickly into an existential nosedive.


AKA Lui seamlessly fuses disco and psychedelia to create a sound that is uniquely his own. His debut single catapulted him into the spotlight, earning critical acclaim and over 2 million streams on Spotify alone. Recent tracks like "Kick It", "Lighthouse", and "Fool" have continued to captivate audiences both in Australia and abroad and with the upcoming release of his debut EP Sapphire Blue on June 21st, AKA Lui is set to confirm his status as a rising star in Australian music.


Bursting with sun-soaked melodies and an electric live set it’s no surprise that Brisbane (Meanjin) indie-pop 5-piece Mid Drift have quickly become a crowd favourite in their hometown and are gaining a loyal fan base interstate. Get a sneak preview of their debut EP Lemon, Lime and Tanlines when they open the stage at Festival of the Stone.

Are DJs more your scene? Don't worry...Club Raiders has you covered!

Cashew’s infectious sounds are ready to take you on a joyous journey through house, tech house, deep house, RnB, hip-hop, funk and disco. Uplifting and exciting, each set from this party-starting pro masterfully weaves a mix of old school and new school. Cashew’s ability to read the room has dancefloors up and down the east coast pumping, delivering satisfaction every time.

Versatile, distinctive and relentlessly fun, a night with Cashew is one you won’t want to miss.

Bringing the heat, we've got Yazmin on the lineup. With a career spanning back to 2013, Yazmin has rocked dance floors across Australia, Indonesia, and the UK. Now, back on home soil, she’s here to share her love for dance music and club favourites!

Her journey has taken her to some of London's hottest clubs and events, including Printworks with Amnesia Ibiza, Ministry of Sound, Egg Club, South West Four Festival and Electric Brixton, to name a few.

With additional sets from Bean Dip, Dan Muz, Reiflex, Mase vs. Kane, and Sammond, the vibes will be high amongst the brewing tanks...so if you're ready to get sweaty, the DJs will be spinning just the tunes to get you grooving. 

 

Come celebrate the annual Release of Stone Beer

With meticulous care, we’ve created this limited-edition winter brew using the best ingredients we could find, including select Australian malts. Stone beer boasts aromatic notes of brewed coffee, rich dark chocolate, and hints of subtly smoked barley.

Grooving for a good cause

Festival of the Stone 2024 will raise money for Byron Shire homeless hub, Fletcher Street Cottage. Byron Shire’s homelessness rate is currently the highest in NSW and Fletcher Street Cottage provides support, information, referral and advocacy to people at risk of homelessness and those already sleeping rough.



“We believe it’s a really important time to support Australian music, events and our community. With Splendour and other festivals having a year off, we’re injecting a little more love into the music side of things this year. Live music in Australia ain’t going anywhere. And with Byron having one of the highest homeless populations in the nation, now is as important as ever to support those sleeping rough. We’re happy to support Fletcher St Cottage’s incredible work in this area for the 10th year in a row.” – James Aris, Stone & Wood Marketing Manager.



There’s nowhere better than Byron in winter! Get that group chat going and make plans to gather in the Bay for music and brews on 1 June. With first release tickets just $60 for 18+, get in early and secure the best deal.


FESTIVAL OF THE STONE
Saturday 1 June, 2024
Centennial Circuit, Byron Bay (Cavanbah)

Did we mention it's kid friendly?

P.S. Don't forget this event is kid friendly. Enjoy some brews and live music, while your grommets froth out at Malt Disney, a special area for kids to hang out and play with entertainment throughout the day.


GET TICKETS

Tickets on Sale NOW: $60 (18+) | $30 (12-17) | free under 12

Reading times: 2 mins

Festival of the Stone Returns for 2024 – Bigger...

GET TICKETS Stone & Wood is thrilled to confirm the return of Festival of the Stone, a celebration of music, community and ancient brewing tradition, that will welcome Winter to...

Read story
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