In the next instalment of its Ale Star sessions, Local Taphouse will host beer writer Matt Kirkegaard, formerly of Brews News, on 15 October.
Kirkegaard has been involved in the beer industry for more than a decade, developing a reputation as one of the country’s leading independent beer educators and advocates. He founded Australian Brews News in 2010, and later Radio Brews News, serving as the editor until the website’s closure earlier this year.
Throughout his career, Kirkegaard has been widely recognised for his contributions to the brewing industry, including winning the inaugural Australian Beer Writer of the Year award at the Australian International Beer Awards. More recently, he was presented with two major awards this year: a Special Achievement award from the Queensland beer industry, and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Independent Brewers Association.
With extensive knowledge of the brewing industry, Kirkegaard has sparked many important conversations about the diverse world of beer, including in advertising and marketing, provenance, and independence. Over the years, these sectors have seen a number of positive changes as a result.
Though Kirkegaard has now left beer media, he will share stories from his career, and insights into the past 10 years of the industry at this latest instalment of Local Taphouse’s Ale Stars sessions.
Hosted by his longtime collaborator and fellow host of Radio Brews News, Pete Mitcham, the event will also include tastings of four beers that were significant to Kirkegaard during his Brews News career. The tasting list comprises Madocke Witbier, Shofferhofer Hefeweizen, Nail Stout, and Duvel Golden Ale, as well as a special surprise brew. Tickets are available online or as part of Local Taphouse’s Ale Stars membership.