No sooner have the Brisbane Lions thrashed the Swans to claim the AFL premiership than another Queenslander is hitting town with Felons Brewing Co. setting up shop at Manly Wharf Bar in Sydney.
In some ways it’s a bit of a homecoming for the brewery under Brisbane’s Story Bridge, which takes its name from the true 200-year-old story who tried to escape Sydney heading south, but were blown off course and ended up shipwrecked on Moreton Island just as Queensland capital was kicking off as a convict colony.
Felons was established a quintet with 75 years of brewing experience: Adam Flaskas and Paul Henry, CEO Luke Fraser; Dean Romeo; and brewery director Tom Champion.
“Our brewing philosophy at Felons Brewing Co. has always been guided by a core belief – to brew no-fuss beer with fresh, local ingredients while focusing on balanced and sessionable products that drive sociability and memorable experiences for our customers,” Champion said.
Brisbane’s acclaimed Howard Smith Wharves, which are owned by Artemus Group, who also took charge of Manly Wharf in April this year and a keen show that Queenslanders can spell beer with more than an X.
Felons Brewing Co. will open at Manly Wharf on Friday, 18 October and it’s also a homecoming for Artemus cofounder Paul Henry.
“As a Sydney boy, I have had many fun times on the Northern Beaches. Manly is the gateway to our famous city, and truly special, where the ocean meets the harbour,” he said.
“Felons is a special beer, to be enjoyed with friends and fun times. I am excited and indeed honoured to be involved in the revitalisation of the iconic Manly Wharf and to bring our beloved Felons brewery to its new home in Sydney.”
Felons Manly will showcase a curated selection of their award-winning beers, including Crisp Lager, Galaxy Haze, and Australian Pale Ale, as well as barrel-aged beer, and seasonal and limited-edition brews.
The drinks list will include a mix of refreshing cocktails; Champagne; Australian and International wines; a thoughtful selection of spirits; and non-alcoholic alternatives.
Former Rockpool Bar and Grill chef Corey Costelloe has created a menu that ranges from a 600g CopperTree Farms 45-day, dry-aged, bone-in ribeye; whole butterflied whiting; baby octopus with lemon, chilli and oregano; and pizzas made with a 36-hour fermented dough using the Felons Pale Ale.
Romeo, brand director for Felons, said they’ll also introduce their Lifestyle Club, featuring a weekly run club and beer yoga sessions; as well as hosting local charity events, sustainability workshops, and collaborations with Manly’s thriving arts scene.
Felons is also into live music featuring live jazz, soul, and funk bands most nights, alongside disco, 80s boogie and Afrocentric grooves.
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