Bob Hawke launches new brewery and beer

By Andy Young

Former Australian Prime Minister Bob Hawke has helped to launch Hawke’s Brewing Co and its first product, Hawke’s Lager.

The beer is initially rolling out across 11 venues in Sydney and Newcastle, before being launched in cans on April 25. The company was founded by Nathan Lennon and David Gibson, who brought in former head brewer at Colonial Brewing Co, Justin Fox, to help create the Hawke’s Lager.

“There’s never been a more exciting time for the beer industry in Australia, with so many local breweries offering beer drinkers a higher level of quality and choice. I’m excited to be a part of the Hawke’s Brewing Co. journey, as we work together to bring even more choice to the market, especially as we expand the range beyond the lager. I would have been satisfied just meeting Bob Hawke but to be brewing beer for him is a dream come true,” said Fox.

The beer was launched on Thursday at The Clock Hotel in Sydney, with Hawke officially pulling the first beer. As well as putting his name to the product Hawke's Brewing Co has entered into a partnership with Landcare Australia, which Hawke played a critical role in driving support for in 1989. Hawke’s passion for the cause still remains with the former PM not receiving any financial benefit from the beer, having instructed that all monies be passed on as donations to Landcare.   

Speaking at the launch, Hawke said: “I am very excited about this project, I think you will remember from my very beginnings as Prime Minister, I had a great commitment to the environment and it’s a commitment which remains.

“But this is particularly exciting because it combines a couple of loves. I’ve been known to enjoy the odd beer, occasionally a quick one – the quickest ever. But I also love this country and I love the opportunity that is before us that is very much in our hands.

“You can have a feeling of well-being as you sip your Hawke’s Lager, knowing that you will be making a contribution to the environment and to your country. You can see why I’m happy, helping your country and having a beer at the same time.”