Sanctus Brewing Company: Townsend brewery set for expansion

Nestled in the heart of the lower Clarence Valley, a beloved craft brewery is in the final stages of a multimillion-dollar expansion. See what’s planned.

A Clarence Valley brewery’s multimillion-dollar expansion is in its final stages as the business goes from strength to strength, tripling production.

Sanctus Brewing Company, nestled in the Townsend Industrial Estate between Yamba and Maclean, is owned by Trent and Nicole O’Connor.

“We recognised the need to expand our production capacity and enhance brewery efficiencies to propel our growth and broaden our distribution channels,” Mr O’Connor said.

Clarence Nationals MP Richie Williamson (second from right) celebrates the expansion with the Sanctus Brewing Co team – brewer Dale Johnston, brand ambassador Renee Shepherd, co-owner Nicole O’Connor, brand ambassador Kim Geritz and co-owner Trent O’Connor.

The couple previously spoke about how their brewery was proof investment in regional businesses would lead to more success stories like their own.

“The attitude is changing from ‘You’re going to go broke’, and now it’s ‘we’ll give it a go’,” Mr O’Connor said back in 2021.

“I think with the government investing into regional areas it’s changing. People are leaving the city, and bringing city ideas and taking a punt in regional areas.”

His words have proven true and the NSW government has financially backed expansion, which is now nearing completion.

Clarence MP Richie Williamson was on site last Wednesday to witness an intricate operation led by local crane company Wicks and Parker.

They lowered steam-powered brewing vessels through the roof of the brewery.

“This is an exciting and cutting-edge project that will see the brewery triple its production capacity allowing it to tap into interstate markets while at the same time creating over 27 full-time jobs,” Mr Williamson said.

“Craft breweries and distilleries are becoming increasingly popular and by supporting them to expand their unique product offerings and enter new markets, we’re helping to boost livelihoods and stimulate regional economies.”

The Sanctus Brewing Co in the heart of Townsend.

The upgrade, matched dollar for dollar by the state, involves installing a 15-hectolitre steam system to reduce emissions and increasing production capacity with the use of a Cask Flex 2 canning line — the first of its kind in Australia.

The line’s cutting-edge technology packages an impressive 100 cans per minute.

Mr O’Connor said: “The backing by the NSW government not only validates our vision, but also empowers us to make significant strides in manufacturing growth within our region,” he said.

“It will benefit our local suppliers, trades and customers who have been so integral to our success so far and will also help regional industries such as Riverina grain growers, malt suppliers and hop growers.”

Sanctus Brewery.

Mr O’Connor said the brewery has proven its resilience in adversity.

“Despite being open for less than four years, we have weathered the storms of bushfires, floods and even the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic,” he said.

“Through it all, we have remained steadfast in our commitment to delivering exceptional craft beer and supporting the Clarence Valley community.

“(We) believe in the power of local manufacturing and this major upgrade is a significant step towards strengthening our position as a leading regional producer.”