Locals rally around hidden-gem brewery

By Katie Johnson Tucked away down an industrial side street in the Montague Precinct of South Melbourne is a cosy, warmly-lit warehouse-style brewery that makes anyone who walks in feel right at home. Since 2016 Westside Ale Works has provided home-brewed craft beer to bars and shops throughout Melbourne, but more recently it’s become a local haunt for residents in Montague. Owner Casey Wagner said that after a long and tough lockdown, locals came out to support the bar in droves. “November last year was our best month we’ve ever had and December and January were also very strong,” Mr Wagner said. “Even during COVID people were supporting local and exploring their area like they never had before which was really nice to see.” Westside stayed open during lockdown, turning to takeaway beers and pizzas and selling wholesale to bottle shops. But since re-opening, Mr Wagner said they had tried to engage the community as much as possible. “After we opened back up council was good to us and let us put tables outside since we’re in a dead-end alley way with no traffic,” Mr Wagner said. “So, people can bring their dogs and sit outside now.” Some of the activities Westside hosts include a puppy pub crawl at the end of each month where people can bring their dogs to catch up over a pint, and Wednesday trivia nights. “Our Wednesday nights for locals vary from bingo, to trivia, to painting, and even beer yoga classes where we have an instructor come in and people can come in and do yoga while having a pint,” Mr Wagner said. “We’re always looking for new ideas on activities to host.” As an American expat himself, Mr Wagner was inspired by the punchy flavours and relaxed lifestyle of the US West Coast and decided to re-create it here in Melbourne when he moved eight years ago. The bar is filled with beer hall tables, an extensive list of craft beers brewed on site and internationally, plus hand-made American style pizza. Mr Wagner said Westside was currently offering wilder and fermented sour beers which customers really enjoy, but that his favourite beer was a classic. “My all-time favourite beer we make is Red Roo, it has a great balance of maltiness and American hops which have a citrus flavour,” Mr Wagner said. “I recommend it to those getting familiar with IPAs for the first time.” Westside is located at 36 Alfred St, South Melbourne • For more information: westsidealeworks.com.au