boag brewery tour

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James Boag Brewery Experience

The James Boag Brewery Experience venue also incorporates a café, merchandise store and museum, giving visitors an insight into the Boag family and the development of the Boag brands throughout the last century. As tour times vary, please contact the Launceston Travel and Information Centre for further details. The James Boag's Brewery Tour Duration - 1.5 hours Tour Prices Adults: $33 Aged concession: $28 Children 5-17: $15 Bookings are essential Terms and Conditions Bookings essential; Fully enclosed shoes must be worn (sneakers or boots are ideal); Children must be 5 years or older and anyone ager 5-17 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian; Strictly no alcohol is to be consumed prior to going on tour; The brewery is a working site, there is no guarantee all elements of the brewery process will be operating at time of tour. The Brewery is largely non-operational on weekends; The tour is a walking tour which includes a number of stairs; Failure to arrive 15 minutes before scheduled tour departure time may result in forfeiture of your tour place and payment.

• 39 William Street, Launceston, TAS, 7250, Australia

Boag's Brewery tours to continue in Launceston thanks to state government funding — with free tours for Tasmanians

Tours of one of Australia's oldest breweries — which were set to end in a few days — have been saved at the 11th hour after James Boag's Brewery received funding from the Tasmanian government to keep them running.

Key points:

• Launceston's Boag's Brewery will receive $1 million in funding from the Tasmanian government to keep its visitor centre open
• Last week, owner Lion Australia announced it would be shutting down the centre and brewery tours
• The closure would have meant the loss of 12 jobs

The Tasmanian government will provide $1 million to keep the Launceston brewery's visitor centre open.

As part of the deal, any Tasmanian with a current driver's licence can get free tours for the next 12 months.

Lion Australia, which owns Boag's, announced last week that it would close the visitor centre , citing declining beer consumption, rising costs and the impact of COVID-19 as the reasons why.

Boag's Brewery director Nathan Calman said the government funding announcement was a win-win for the Launceston community.

"The proposal to close the visitor centre and tours was not put forward lightly, but as a response to the significant cost pressures we are facing across our business," Mr Calman said.

"The response — an outpouring of immense passion for the continuation of our brewery tours and visitor centre experience — reminded us of just how integral Boag's is to Launceston."

Mr Calman said there had been no expectation that the government would provide support to keep the tours operating.

"This package will help us continue to provide a great tour experience at the Boag's visitor centre, while we work with the government and other stakeholders to address some of the long-term cost pressures our manufacturing business continues to face," he said.

The continued operation of the centre will also save 12 jobs.

Premier Jeremy Rockliff, who called on Lion to reconsider its initial decision, said the funding would be used to "expand and enhance the tourist attraction".

"[It's] not only a local cultural icon but a vital part of the local northern economy attracting thousands of visitors a year," Mr Rockliff said.

"The unique experience it offers has been a significant drawcard for Launceston for decades, with the benefits flowing to other businesses in the region and across the state."

The funding will also be used for a marketing strategy, to promote the tour to interstate travellers.

Launceston Mayor Danny Gibson told ABC Radio Hobart he was delighted the decision to close the visitor centre had been reversed.

"We're thrilled that such a vital component of our visitor economy has been reinstated, not only to the same level but [also with] commitment to expand it.

"We know that the visitor centre and the tours are consistently ranked highly by visitors to Launceston."

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Launceston's historic boag's brewery to shut its doors to tourists amid downturn in beer consumption.

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Great tour - worth the cost - James Boag Brewery Experience

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• James Boag Brewery Experience

I learnt a lot about beer and how it is made. I liked the tasting at the end, it gets booked up... read more

We had a most enjoyable and informative time going through the brewery and the whole process from... read more

Great tour - worth the cost

We really enjoyed the brewery tour, and especially the beer and cheese tasting afterwards. We learnt a lot and will now be Boags drinkers! Katey was a great host - confident, relaxed and funny.

I’m not a beer drinker, but had an awesome time on this tour. Our tour guide Bernike was the sweetest, loveliest boy. Excellent service! Couldn’t have asked for a better tour guide. So glad we did this, me and my husband had a great time :)

The brewery tour was interesting and we were lucky enough to be there when the beer was being brewed. Loved to be able to taste some of the beers at the end (even though I’m not a beer fan I did give it a go but my husband was very happy) with some delicious cheese. Katie our guide was friendly and had loads of knowledge. Shame the casual staff miss out on the beer rations however!!

Had a lovely time sitting in the beer garden with one of the Boags tasting paddles. Partnered them up with their sweet potato wedges and was a very pleasant afternoon.

We had a great time on the James Boag brewery tour. It was fun and informative. Our guide Phil was very knowledgeable and his commentary was suitably amusing. The beer and cheese tasting g st the end was a highlight! Highly recommend it!

Best sweet potato chips, great food beer...not to mention service from manager and bar staff on 11 Jan2020 Thank you

39 William Street, Launceston, Tasmania 7250 (03) 6332 6300 [email protected] www.boags.com.au

opening times

Monday – Friday 9:30 – 5pm, Sat and Sunday 10:30 – 5pm

Closed Christmas Day

Daily at 11.00am, 1.00pm and 3.00pm

Readily available in Pubs and bottle shops across Tasmania (and in every state in Australia, as well as overseas). Also from the James Boag’s Brewery Experience venue.

The story of James Boag’s Brewery starts in 1881 on the banks of the Esk River in Launceston. It was there James Boag and son established their tradition of brewing excellence. James Boag understood that there’s nothing on earth quite like Tasmania’s natural pure waters, and he used this as his inspiration to brew some of the finest beers in the land.

When these miraculous waters are combined with other premier ingredients, the result is James Boag’s unique range of Tasmanian beer. Premium, the brewery’s multi-award winning favourite, is not only wildly popular in Tasmania, but can also be found on the mainland and in small pockets all over the world.

Try the James Boag Brewery Experience and you can take a walk back through time with a brewery tour. There’s also a museum and gift shop. Even if you don’t have time for a tour, drop in for a beer or coffee. There’s also a selection of Tasmanian wine, cheese and light lunch options available.

James Boag Beers

James boag's premium lager.

James Boag’s Premium is a smooth, subtle lager, a perfect balance between hop and malt.

Bright pale straw in colour with finely beaded bubbles, the lager has a fruity front palate, followed by its distinctly crisp, dry finish. This unique taste combination makes it the ideal accompaniment to seafood, a perfect match of flavour intensity.

It’s created with the finest ingredients, world-class brewing skills and the pure waters of Tasmania.

James Boag's Premium Light

ames Boag’s Premium Light provides a full-flavoured experience that is every bit as sophisticated as its Premium Lager alternative.

Boag's Draught

A traditional Australian style of lager, Circa 1930s.

Boag's Draught Light

A low alcohol Australian style of lager, launched in 1990.

James Boags Wild Rivers

James Boags newest release in 2018. This refreshing lager is a thoughtfully crafted balance between hop and malt.  Take in the fresh, piney aroma inspired by the rugged landscapes and waterfalls of Tasmania. It's low on bitterness with a clean, crisp finish.

James Boags Draught

James Boags master brewers use the finest fresh ingredients Tasmania has to offer, including top quality malts and Pride of Ringwood hops. The result is a crisp and refreshing, full-flavoured lager – it is sure to please the most discerning beer drinker.

James Boags Draught Light

Double batched, filtered and low-temperature evaporated, James Boag’s Draught Light is just 2.7% ABV, with a full and pleasing character. Available only in Tasmania.

Boag's Wizard Smith Ale

A traditional English Pale Ale, launched in 2007 and made with quality imported hops and a great deal of character.  Available only in Tasmania.

Boag's XXX Ale

Beautifully coloured and full of flavour, Boag’s XXX Ale is 4.8% ABV, as well as crisp, balanced and aromatic.  Available only in Tasmania.

See full tasting notes for the entire James Boags range here .

James Boag Facts

Launceston is Tasmania's second major city and a vibrant hub for food and wine, culture and nature. In fact, the whole region is jam-packed with city and country charm, gorgeous old towns, excellent food and wine and beautiful scenic highlights.

One of Australia's oldest cities, Launceston has one of the best-preserved early cityscapes in Australia with its elegant Colonial and Victorian architecture and century-old parks.

Just a short walk from the city centre, Cataract Gorge is a slice of wilderness right in the heart of town and Launceston's star natural attraction.

There's also plenty of culture on offer at art galleries, museums and local designer stores, not to mention the famous cool climate wines, local brews and fine dining that are the essence of the Launceston experience.

And for a little 'home away from home', why not catch a game of AFL at Launceston's University of Tasmania Stadium?

From Launceston, you can follow the Tamar Valley north through Tasmania's premium wine-growing region, past forested hills and farmland, lavender fields, vineyards, orchards and pretty riverside towns. Historic villages are found around every corner, from Longford on the outskirts of Launceston to Evandale, Ross and Campbell Town along the Heritage Highway south. For those interested in wildlife, nearby Narawntapu National Park provides many opportunities to see Australia's unique animals. Launceston's history began in 1804 when the commandant of the British garrison Lt. Col. William Paterson, set up a camp at Port Dalrymple, now known as George Town. A few weeks later, the settlement was moved across the river to York Town and in 1806 they finally settled in Launceston.

See more at Discover Tasmania

Also visit the Launceston Travel and Information Centre for more information on visiting Launceston and the Tamar Valley.

Discover Tasmania

VisitVineyards.com

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39 William Street, Launceston, Tasmania, 7250 Web: www.boags.com.au Email: [email protected] Tel: (03) 6332 6300

The Tasmanian Beer Trail © 2015

James Boags Brewery

Average reviews, description, home of tasmania’s finest beer.

Over 160 years ago, James Boag moved halfway around the world from Scotland to the untamed island of Tasmania. There he began brewing in the township of Launceston on the banks of the Esk River, with the humble plan of using the outstanding local water and ingredients to produce the finest beer in the world.

Today, the brewery has become a beating heart for the people of Tasmania. From employing generations of proud brewers, to celebrating weddings, achievements, and milestones in our bars and amongst our beautiful historic site.

And through it all we have continued to follow the same philosophy, brewing every drop of our world renown beer from the same brewery in Launceston, using James Boag’s traditional brewing techniques and the finest produce on earth.

James Boags Bar

The James Boag Brewery Bar sits within our historic grounds in Launceston’s CBD, surrounded by some of Australia’s most stunning convict brick buildings. On any day you might find some locals celebrating a birthday out the back, groups of tours coming and going, and a few brewers finishing off a good day’s work with a cheeky sample.

Situated in Launceston’s heritage listed Tamar Hotel; the James Boag Brewery Bar welcomes Tasmanian locals and guests from around the world; giving everyone a place to experience some of the finest Australian beer ever produced, from the brewery where every drop is still made.

With three bars, a fabulous beer garden, and two levels of James Boag history and memorabilia; the James Boag Brewery Bar offers the flexibility to have lunch with family and friends, experience some of Launceston’s unique local events, or just soak up a sunny day with a cold beer.

Enhance your next function by holding it at the historic James Boag Brewery in the heart of Launceston. With a selection of flexible heritage and modern spaces, this is the ideal location for your next function.

Available for functions: Everyday 8:00am – 12:00am Maximum Capacity: 120

Function packages available upon request.

Contact us: Ph. 03 6332 6300 or Email:  [email protected]

JAMES BOAG BEER EXPERIENCE STORE

Treat yourself or the beer lover in your life to something special from the official James Boag Merchandise Store. Explore our range of quality James Boag items, including clothing, accessories, barware, gift vouchers, and other unique James Boag merchandise and memorabilia.

The multi-award winning brew from James Boag, wildly popular in Tasmania, can also be found on the mainland. Enjoy, from the pure waters of Tasmania.Please only share our posts with those who are of legal drinking age. Enjoy James Boag responsibly.

James Boag’s Facebook Community Guidelines James Boag’s is fully committed to being a responsible community host, and the responsible promotion and consumption of alcohol. For more information, view our UGC Guide at  bit.ly/UGC_Guide

James Boag’s is a contributor to DrinkWise Australia, an independent, not-for-profit organisation focused on promoting change towards a healthier and safer drinking culture in Australia. Visit  www.drinkwise.org.au  for more information and the facts about alcohol.

BREWERY TOURS

The James Boag Brewery have been brewing crisp, refreshing lagers and ales on the banks of Launceston’s Esk River since 1881, and now you have the opportunity to discover what goes into producing Tasmania’s finest beer. Step inside the historic brewery for a fully guided tour, exploring how James Boag’s traditional brewing process is teamed with the state-of-the-art brewery, to create their range of award-winning beers.

The tour concludes with a guided tasting of 3 of James Boag’s exceptional lagers and ales, in our heritage listed James Boag Brewery Bar. Don’t miss your chance to experience a world class working brewery, the only brewery where James Boag beer is made, and where it has always been made. Book today.

Tours running: Thursday – Sunday: 11:30am & 3:00pm. Monday – Wednesday: Private tours available by request.

Additional or private tours available by request. Book online now

Bookings are essential. For more information Phone (03) 6332 6300 or Email  [email protected]

Today Open now UTC+10

• Monday 09:30 AM - 05:00 PM
• Tuesday 09:30 AM - 05:00 PM
• Wednesday 09:30 AM - 05:00 PM
• Thursday 09:30 AM - 05:00 PM
• Friday 09:30 AM - 05:00 PM
• Saturday 10:30 AM - 05:00 PM
• Sunday 10:30 AM - 05:00 PM

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Boag’s Brewery tours will now continue

The James Boag’s Brewery Tours and Visitor Centre will remain open for the foreseeable future after the Tasmanian Government reached an in-principle agreement with Lion to keep the centre open.

Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff said the agreement would see $1m in funding to help secure the centre’s future, safeguard jobs and then expand and enhance to tourist attraction to be bigger than ever.

“The Boag’s Brewery Visitor Centre is not only a local cultural icon but a vital part of the local northern economy attracting thousands of visitors a year,” Premier Rockliff said.

“Importantly, the tour and centre directly employs 12 local staff and supports some 120 in suppliers in its operations.

“The unique experience it offers has been a significant drawcard for Launceston for decades, with the benefits flowing to other businesses in the region and across the State. That’s why it’s so important that not only does the Visitor Centre remain open, but that we work with Lion to make the visitor centre experience and attract more locals and tourists.

“The funding will also support a targeted marketing strategy to promote the tour experience nationally. This investment reinforces the commitment of both Lion and our Government to ensuring this important part of Tasmanian history and community continues now and into the future.

“I look forward to continuing to work in partnership with Lion and James Boags’ Brewery to make one of Launceston’s most loved tourist attractions better than ever.”

The move comes after the Tasmanian Hospitality Association had criticised the Government for not listening to both the association and Lion about the concerns it had over the long-term viability of the centre .

But now James Boag’s Brewery Director, Nathan Calman, said that the outcome is a win-win for the Launceston Community.

“The proposal to close the visitor centre and tours were not put forward lightly and the response was an outpouring of immense passion for the continuation of our brewery tours and visitor centre experience. It reminded us of just how integral Boag’s is to Launceston,” Calman said.

“We will now work with our Boag’s Visitor Centre team, who will all retain their roles, to consider how we can use this funding to enhance the Boag’s brewery tour experience and promote tourism to Launceston for the benefit of the region.”

Lion has also said it will offer anyone with a current Tasmanian Driver’s License free brewery tours for the next 12 months.

Andy joined Intermedia as Editor of The Shout in 2015, writing news on a daily basis and also writing features for National Liquor News. Now Managing Editor of both The Shout and Bars and Clubs. More by Andy Young

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