Little Creatures Geelong opens after major renovation

Little Creatures Brewery is unveiling major upgrades to the “truly unique” site in South Geelong.

Little Creatures brewing leader Dennis Stewart, venue manager Olivia Hosking, left, national hospitality operations manager Carrie Watson and executive chef Stephen Shing trying out the kids slide inside the multimillion dollar revamped South Geelong premises. Picture: Alison Wynd

Little Creatures Brewery is unveiling a major $4m renovation to its historic home in South Geelong.

The venue, located at 221 Swanston St, received a series of upgrades, with $3m spent to enhance its brewing capabilities and $1m to improve its hospitality offering.

The venue was partially closed from September, and will be open from this weekend.

It can accommodate more than 400 people across its tap bar, canteen, function space, and outdoor area.

Brewing leader Dennis Stewart said the bottom line of the “significant investment” was to foster community.

“What makes this space truly unique is its ability to bring people together,” he said.

The venue offers guided brewery tours, live music gigs, and events.

Mr Stewart said he believed the atmosphere was akin to “your favourite local pub” with the added benefits of a larger space.

“Whether you’re enjoying a delicious beer, sharing a family meal in our canteen, or celebrating in one of our function areas, the energy of this historic building … is what makes it special,” he said.

Little Creatures South Geelong premises. Picture: Alison Wynd

The design embraces the heritage of its Valley Worsted Mills location by retaining its exposed brick walls and industrial accents while incorporating modern features like improved lighting and restored furniture.

Originally a textile mill, it was constructed in 1923 and operated for 50 years before swapping wool for beer following Little Creatures’ purchase of the site.

The Geelong location is the second Little Creatures brewery in Australia, with the original found in Fremantle, Western Australia.

Originally published as Little Creatures Geelong opens after major renovation