Grafton brewery development to go before Clarence Valley Council

A big new development including a revamped brewery, distillery, restaurant, retail space and more is set to shake up Grafton. Take a look at what’s planned.

brewer Marcello ‘Muz’ Mastrantonio and applicant Rick Firth.

A big new development including a revamped brewery, distillery, restaurant, retail space and more is set to shake up Grafton.

Brewhouse Group have lodged a submission with Clarence Valley Council for the $1.8 million project at the iconic old Grafton Brewery site on North St.

The project will also include a coffee roastery and upgrades to the existing Brewhouse Cafe.

Grafton Brewing Co was previously using the site, but it’s long been closed.

Brewhouse Group chief executive Rick Firth said Grafton was “screaming out” for something like the project, describing it as a “village hub”.

An artist impression of the project.

He said regional locales like Grafton have to think outside the box to find ways of attracting visitors and boosting tourism, particularly due to the highway bypass.

“Country towns either grow or die,” he said.

Mr Firth said diverse food and beverage offerings would attract locals seeking an alternative to the pub.

“It’ll provide something new and exciting for Grafton and act as a tourist destination for people to shop and enjoy a drink or meal,” he said.

The development is expected to create more than 40 new jobs in the area if approved

The foundation stone for the Grafton Brewery was first laid in 1951, following years of delays as a result of post-war shortages – and a new 2000 sqm design will stay true to its industrial roots.

Grafton Brewery in 1954. Picture: Clarence River Historical Society.

“We want to get the overall design right and pay respect to the old buildings in the precinct,” Mr Firth said.

The submission outlines 1200 sqm for the brewery, restaurant and retail area, 380 sqm for the distillery and 430 sqm for the coffee roastery and cafe.

Mr Firth said he would start building as soon as he has approval from the council.

He bought the site in 2019 with the sole idea of reopening the historic brewery and selling classic beers produced by traditional methods.

The distillery will use local botanicals and ingredients to feature in spirits and liqueurs.

The plans include more space for commercial use, such as offices.

Mr Firth said regional locales have to think outside the box to draw tourists.

Mr Firth said he was confident the project would get the green light from the council.

“We’ve used some of the same consultants council use to ensure it ticks all the right boxes,” he said.

Mr Firth spoke of Grafton’s “huge” potential and he said the investment would “bring something special to the town”.

Jamie Firth, brewer Marcello ‘Muz’ Mastrantonio and applicant Rick Firth.

He flagged plans to open up a cheese factory, bakery and an artisan butcher.

The development is costed at $1.8 million and expected to open within 12 months of approval.

The initial development application is $1.8 million and the project is slated to open within 12 months of approval.