Nestled among the rolling green hills of Cudgen, just minutes from Kingscliff on the Tweed Coast, Earth Beer Company has become one of the Northern Rivers’ most loved independent breweries. Equal parts laid-back local watering hole and creative brewing hub, the brewery has built a loyal following through its inventive small-batch beers, welcoming atmosphere and strong focus on sustainability, community and local produce.
Operating from an old rustic tin shed surrounded by 25 acres of avocado orchards – home to more than 400 avocado trees – Earth Beer Company offers a brewery experience unlike almost anywhere else in the region. Mangoes, mulberries, Flow Hive honey, and even sweet potatoes grown on the property, have all been used in the brewery’s rotating beer releases over the years.
That paddock-to-pint philosophy sits at the heart of the brewery’s identity, with Earth Beer Company producing fully solar-powered beer while continuing to explore creative ways to reduce waste and brew more sustainably.
As winter approaches, the brewery is preparing for one of its most anticipated annual celebrations – the Bonfire Stout Blackout Blowout.
Returning on Saturday, 6 June, the day has become a cult favourite among dark beer lovers across the Tweed and Byron regions. The brewery transforms into a warm, fire-lit haven filled with rich stouts, hearty food, live music and flannel-clad locals embracing the cooler months.
This year’s Blackout Blowout will feature six dark beers alongside special releases brewed exclusively for the occasion, including a decadent Choc Bourbon Stout, a bold barrel-aged limited release, and a mystery vanilla dark ale.
Fan favourites are also making a return – including the brewery’s much-loved ‘Violet Crumble,’ a half honeycomb pale ale and half chocolate stout blend that has developed a near-mythical reputation among patrons.
Beyond the beers, the celebration promises a full winter experience. The Rustic Food Truck will be serving up burgers, stews and hot chips throughout the evening, while live music from local acts X-port and Payday DJ will keep the atmosphere buzzing into the sunset.
For co-founder Richie, gatherings like this capture what Earth Beer Company is all about.
‘We’ve always wanted the brewery to feel like a gathering place,’ he says. ‘The Blackout Blowout has become one of those days where everyone comes together – locals, visitors, beer lovers and music lovers – and just settles in around good beer and good people.’
So chuck on a beanie, don your favourite jacket, and come get cosy with the Earth Beer crew on 6 June between 11am and 8pm for a few dark delights.
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