Melbourne Park, a renowned sporting precinct in Victoria, Australia, has welcomed a new addition that promises to enhance its appeal: St Andrews Beach Brewery. The brewery, opened on August 27, 2024, brings the coastal charm and flavors of the Mornington Peninsula directly to the heart of the city’s sporting hub, thanks to the support of the Allan Labor Government.
Located within CENTREPIECE at Melbourne Park, the brewery boasts both indoor and outdoor dining spaces, accommodating up to 350 guests. This venue marks a significant milestone in the Melbourne Park Redevelopment project, showcasing the precinct’s growing role in Victoria’s thriving visitor economy, which contributes a staggering $39.3 billion annually.
St Andrews Beach Brewery at Melbourne Park is not just a place to enjoy a drink; it’s a fully operational brewery where visitors can sample beverages crafted on-site. Spearheaded by the team behind the Mornington Peninsula’s leading craft brewery, this initiative brings their expertise and passion for quality beer to Melbourne’s most iconic sports and entertainment hub.
The brewery’s strategic location in the heart of Melbourne Park offers a unique experience for patrons. They can enjoy a cold brew while being immersed in the energetic atmosphere of Victoria’s premier sports precinct. This venue is expected to become a key destination for both beer aficionados and sports enthusiasts.
The Melbourne & Olympic Parks precinct already attracts over three million visitors each year, and the addition of St Andrews Beach Brewery is anticipated to further enhance its appeal. This is expected to contribute to the substantial $700 million in visitor spending generated annually, with increased hotel bookings and extended stays as visitors flock to Melbourne Park not just for the events, but also for the unique culinary and beverage experiences it now offers.
The opening of the brewery has received enthusiastic support from both government officials and industry leaders. Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, Steve Dimopoulos, highlighted Victoria’s strengths in hosting major sporting events and offering exceptional food and drink experiences. He lauded the brewery’s opening as a significant addition to Melbourne Park, enhancing the visitor experience for the millions of sports fans and tourists who frequent the precinct.
John Harnden, CEO of Melbourne Olympic Park Trust, emphasized the importance of the partnership with St Andrews Beach Brewery in fulfilling the Trust’s mission to create a thriving destination for all Victorians. With nearly 3.9 million visitors attending around 500 events last year, the precinct is firmly established as Victoria’s hub for live events, and the new brewery is expected to further cement this reputation.
Andrew Purchase, Co-Founder of St Andrews Beach Brewery, expressed excitement about bringing the flavors and flair of the Mornington Peninsula to Melbourne. Known for its exceptional craft beers, the brewery’s extension into Melbourne Park allows it to reach a broader audience, showcasing the best of what the Peninsula has to offer.
The venue’s design and ambiance reflect the relaxed, coastal vibe of its original location, while seamlessly integrating into the modern, bustling environment of Melbourne Park. Visitors can expect to enjoy a diverse menu of craft beers, each brewed on-site, along with a selection of food options that complement the brewery’s offerings.
The brewery’s design, featuring both indoor and outdoor dining areas, ensures that it can be enjoyed year-round, regardless of Melbourne’s famously unpredictable weather. Whether it’s a warm summer day or a cool winter evening, the venue offers a comfortable and inviting space for patrons to relax and enjoy the unique atmosphere of Melbourne Park.
In addition to serving as a brewery and dining venue, the space is likely to become a popular spot for pre- and post-event gatherings, further integrating it into the fabric of Melbourne’s vibrant sports and entertainment culture.
The opening of St Andrews Beach Brewery at Melbourne Park represents a significant step in the evolution of the precinct as a premier destination for both sports and leisure. Supported by the Victorian Government and embraced by industry leaders, the brewery is set to play a key role in enhancing the visitor experience, driving economic growth, and showcasing the best of Victorian food and drink.
As the precinct continues to host record-breaking events and attract visitors from around the world, the addition of this unique brewery only adds to the allure of Melbourne Park, ensuring that it remains a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists alike.
