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Last week, IBA CEO, Sabrina Kunz and Membership Engagement Officer, Jono Outred, along with Board members Evin Craney (Chair), Paul Maley, Hamish Coates and James Smith attended the Melbourne Royal Australian International Beer Awards held at the Melbourne Showgrounds.

It was a huge night and wonderful to see so many members dressed up for the big occasion. The IBA team were incredibly proud and excited to see so many Australian independent breweries take out medals and trophies, and in particular, the 16 trophies won by IBA members is an amazing achievement. That represents around 35% of total trophies being won by members of the IBA, with over 600 medals awarded to IBA members .

It’s such an incredible achievement and shows that it is indie brewers who are leading the charge when it comes to excellence and quality in the beer industry. We hope you heard us cheering on every indie winner on the night from table 43.

Of course, the beer offering is always a standout but our thanks to Melbourne Royal on running a great presentation alongside great food and entertainment.

All IBA Trophy Winners:
Champion Australian Independent Beer – Stomping Ground Brewing
Champion Australian Independent Brewery – King Road Brewing
Champion Small Australian Brewery – King Road Brewing
Australian Nomad Brewer Award – Shack Bay Brewing
Gary Sheppard Memorial Trophy – Froth Craft Brewery
Consistency of Excellence – Brick Lane Brewing
Consistency of Excellence – TWØBAYS Brewing
Consistency of Excellence – Brick Lane Brewing
Consistency of Excellence – Reckless Brewing
Best Traditional India Pale Ale – King Road Brewing
Best International-Style Pale Ale Pale Ale – Ward’s Brewery
Best Australian Style Pale Ale – Mismatch Brewing
Best Fruit Beer – Half Pace Brewing
Best Reduced / Low Alcohol Beer – Love Shack Brewing
Best European-Style Lager – Stomping Ground Brewing
Best International Lager – Beerfarm

Full results can be found here, and a gallery from the night can be found here

While in Melbourne, Sabrina, Jono and board members also attended the Bintani Trade Day and an IBA hosted event at Rocky Ridge Brunswick. Our event had a great turn out with many members keen for a beer and a chat on what the IBA is doing in Victoria. Thank you Rocky Ridge for your generous support with a few beers on the house.

The Bintani Trade Day proved to be an excellent opportunity to share with members some new merch items thanks to associate member Legit Ink, and chat all things industry and share a conversation or two with members and non-members alike.

We hope you enjoy the new IBA pins and patches, and if you missed out or weren’t in attendance, we are getting more made up as we speak so make sure you get along to our next event in your state to grab one!