Tell us about your background and what led you to becoming a producer on the Central Coast
Chris grew up on the Central Coast and started home brewing at 21. The idea of becoming a fully-fledged producer began during a cycle trip in Western Australia. We discovered several small breweries on the trip and a little spark of an idea was born! The few breweries that were in NSW were mostly in Metro areas. To be able to live and work on the Central Coast was the dream, so together with a friend from school, Adam Klasterka, we started planning.
It took two years to find a suitable venue and gain approval because we were the first craft brewery on the Central Coast, so there were no planning precedents. We have been up and running for 10 years now and have loved every moment of running Six String Brewing Co.
What do you enjoy most about connecting with visitors to your business?
We enjoy meeting the diverse people who visit Six String Brewing Co. Some visitors are seasoned craft beer drinkers, experimenting with new tastes and styles. Others have never tried craft beer, or they tell us they are not a ‘beer drinker’. It’s great to see people’s reaction when they discover a new flavour sensation or their first love of craft beer.
Attending events, such as Rock the Farm at Eastcoast Beverages or Avoca Markets, introduces our brews to new people in a fun environment. We enjoy the opportunity to showcase our beers at these Central Coast events.
What makes your products unique?
We were pioneers of craft brewing on the Central Coast. Our beers are not tasteless brews; they are full flavoured, and there is always something new and different for visitors to try. We often refer to our beers as Amplified Ales, the name reflecting how we are always pushing the boundaries, everything from a 14% ABV Quadruple Dark Red IPA to an easy-drinking raspberry sour. Once a month, we create a new brew, often in sync with the seasons. A Mexican lager for those long, hot summer days. A hearty stout for winter. Craft beer is uniqueness itself!
What should people expect when they visit your venue?
We always say Six String Brewing Co is like Pandora’s Box. There is a little sign at an unassuming door. People are amazed at how much is packed behind that door! We operate five days a week, and there is always something to experience. People often talk about beer ‘tasting’ but visitors to our Central Coast brewery will have a complete sensory experience, watching the canning and smelling the brewing beer.
Are you able to give us a preview of any innovative projects (e.g., new products, experiences, promotions or collaborations) that you are working on?
The big news is that we will be moving later in 2023 to Erina SawMill. Our capacity will increase from 80 to 150, with live music and plans for a cocktail bar. Tours will run seamlessly beside our brewing operations, so visitors to the Central Coast can really immerse themselves in a working brewery experience. We also turn 10 years old in 2023, so this is a massive year!
What do you think makes the Central Coast such a great place for people to establish a food or beverage business?
For us personally, we always intended to move back to the Central Coast. The beach and outdoor lifestyle cannot be beaten. From a business perspective, the mix of tourism and a central location for distribution creates great opportunities.
Who would you recommend as other ‘must try’ food / drink producers on the Central Coast?
We work closely with Eastcoast Beverages and stock their soft drinks. When people visit the Central Coast, it’s wonderful that we have more than one brewery so they can indulge in a real craft beer experience. Block N’ Tackle brewery is part of the Makers Trail and definitely worth a visit.
What do you think is the best kept secret on the Central Coast?
As well as the touristy beaches, there are beautiful, quiet beaches. We put the boat in at Saratoga and cruise over to Lobster Beach. Having a beer at MacMasters Beach Surf Club while the kids swim can’t really be beaten.
When you’re not making awesome food / drink, what do you love doing in your spare time?
As well as enjoying quiet beaches, we love a family bushwalk. Chris loves live music, and there are some great venues popping up like Drifters Wharf that we always try and get out to. He plays the six string bass at home when he gets a chance.