Billson's

Billson's Brewery: From Iconic Sips to Voluntary Flips!

In a shocking turn of events, Billson's Brewery in Beechworth, known for its mouth-watering craft brews, enters voluntary administration! What happened to this beloved icon?

Nestled in the picturesque town of Beechworth, Victoria, Billson's Brewery has long been a beloved institution, capturing the hearts—and taste buds—of locals and tourists alike since its inception in the 1860s. Known for its craft brews, cordials, and unique ready-to-drink vodka creations, the brewery's reputation soared, becoming a staple for anyone looking to indulge in a refreshing drink in the heart of North East Victoria. However, in a heartbreaking announcement, owners Nathan Cowan and Felicity Cottrill shared that the company is entering voluntary administration, citing an array of insurmountable challenges as the reason behind their drastic decision.

The husband-and-wife duo described their predicament as “excruciatingly difficult”, acknowledging that their beloved brand has faced vast and incomprehensible hurdles along the way. As the drinks industry evolves and competition heats up, Billson's struggled to keep pace with its operational systems and growth processes. Unfortunately, this inability to adapt has seen their once-thriving business brought to its knees, leaving the local community and loyal customers in shock over the uncertain fate of their favourite brews.

Billson's extraordinary journey began over 150 years ago, making it one of Australia’s oldest breweries. With a rich history steeped in the revival of traditional recipes, Billson’s has not only contributed to the local economy but also played a significant role in Beechworth's identity as a tourist hotspot. Its products have always been celebrated for quality and craftsmanship, but recent revelations from Cowan and Cottrill paint a daunting picture of a company that has felt the pressure of modern business dynamics.

As the news of Billson's entering administration broke, discussions about the brewery's future have ignited hope and nostalgia among its patrons. The local community is rallying to support this iconic brand with many stating that they still have confidence in its revival. After all, within every challenge lies the seed of opportunity. Interestingly, Billson’s was among the first breweries in Australia to offer pre-mixed alcoholic beverages, which paved the way for today’s ready-to-drink market! Let's not forget that Billson's also produced a cordial that’s famous enough to make you rethink the word ‘boring’ when it comes to making drinks for kids (or adults!). With a little luck and the right navigation, Billson's may just find their way back to the taps of Australia once again!