White Bay, located on the Balmain Peninsula in Sydney’s Inner West, has a rich history intertwined with industrial development and maritime activities.
This industrial development continues today, with White Bay Brewery a relatively young brewery that has gained a solid following with loyal locals and beer tourists alike.
The brewery has earned a reputation for producing high-quality, modern beers while keeping a strong connection to classic beer styles. With their portfolio including a mix of core and limited releases, including:
- Pale Ales (especially hazy and juicy variants)
- IPAs (from West Coast to New England styles)
- Lagers (light, crisp and approachable)
- Pilsners (a style where they experiment more)
History and Ownership
Established in 2020, just as the COVID-19 pandemic hit. White Bay was founded by a team of experienced brewing professionals who previously worked with other notable Australian breweries, including Young Henrys, Little Creatures, Balter and Modus Operandi.
Adam Trippe-Smith an experienced beverage industry entrepreneur, co-founded McLaren Vale Beer Company (now Vale Brewing) in 2007, which achieved massive growth in it’s first couple of years, reaching a million litres of sales within two years. In 2012 Trippe-Smith went on to co-found Kegstar a keg rental & logistics company. In 2018 Trippe-Smith founded Konvoy Kegs, which along with ker rental & logistics, also leverages IoT tracking technology to monitor the location and temperature of kegs. Trippe-Smith is also a founding board member of the Craft Beer Industry Association, now known as the Independent Brewers Association, which advocates for independent brewers in Australia.
Tim Condon is a Sydney publican with extensive experience in the hospitality sector. Condon’s efforts have significantly influenced Sydney’s pub culture. He was instrumental in preserving and revitalising historic hospitality venues (particularly within the Balmain and Rozelle area) to meet contemporary standards while maintaining their traditional appeal. This includes The Riverview Hotel, The Three Weeds Hotel, East Village Hotel and The Cricketers Arms.
Departing White Bay in 2021. The final co-founded Tim Fishwick is a seasoned professional in the Australian craft beer industry, with extensive experience in sales and brewery operations. Having lead the sales teams for iconic breweries such as Little Creatures, Rocks Brewing & Balter Brewing.
Awards and Alliances
In 2022, White Bay was awarded Champion Independent Beer & Champion Lager at the Independent Brewers Association’s yearly beer awards.
In 2024, the brewery added an Extra Pale Lager (XPL), to their core range. This red and white branded beer, was released to coincide with the brewery’s three-year partnership as the official beer of the Sydney Swans. They have also partnered with Merivale to pour its XPL and Pilsner at the SCG and Allianz Stadium.
Taproom and Community
The brewery and taproom is situated in an industrial precinct that backs onto White Bay. Located in a 150-year-old steel mill that is “criss-crossed with steel beams like the bones of a giant, and wrapped in corrugated iron walls”.
The massive size of the building (1400m2) was a key factor in its selection as the site for the brewery, as the founders wanted plenty of space for their lager program. The brewery’s interior design reflects its industrial heritage, with exposed brick, steel beams, and high ceilings.
The building’s corrugated iron walls and steel beams give it a “working classy” aesthetic, which is reflected in the brewery’s tagline.
White Bay Brewery is committed to its local community. The brewery regularly hosts events and supports local causes.
Food
White Bay Brewery has partnered with Tipo 00, a pizzeria in Balmain, to offer award-winning pizza and other snacks in its taproom. The menu features options for everyone. Added to pizza, you’ll often find a food truck parked conveniently out the front offering an additional variety of food.
Overall Experience
White Bay Brewery offers a unique and enjoyable experience for beer lovers. The brewery’s industrial setting, commitment to quality lagers, and focus on community make it a standout destination in Sydney’s craft beer scene. The brewery’s knowledgeable and friendly staff are always happy to help visitors find the perfect beer and to share their passion for craft beer
Web: https://whitebay.beer/
Address: 26C Mansfield St, Rozelle NSW 2039
Hours:
Monday Closed
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday Closed
Thursday 4–10 pm
Friday 4–10 pm
Saturday 12–10 pm
Sunday 12–8 pm
