PUBS and clubs across three states will stage simultaneous fundraisers later this month as the Great Northern Brewing Company helps raise more than $1 million for drought-affected farmers.
Great Northern will donate 1000 kegs to pubs and clubs across Queensland, NSW and Victoria for Let it Pour, a major event that will see Australians unite to help farmers facing record-breaking conditions.
All sales proceeds will be given to the Drought Relief Fund, administered by Rotary Australia.
Great Northern general manager Mick McKeown said venues will host Let it Pour events on August 24-26. He said regional Australia had supported Great Northern since day one and now it was time to give back.
“We are a big part of regional Australia and are going to let it pour as communities rally together to help our farmers,” he said.
“We expect pubs will join in the fun on the day. Some of our customers have been talking about bringing in local bands and hosting many other activities. Most importantly, people in Queensland should find a participating venue and go along to support our farmers.
“In coming days Great Northern will announce more initiatives to help our farmers.”
The Criterion in Brisbane’s CBD was the first Queensland pub to register for the campaign. Pub owner Nick Kalaf said the influx of country people to Brisbane for the Ekka was a reminder to city dwellers of the harsh realities of life in the bush.
“We are really proud to take part in Let it Pour and think it’ll be a really popular event with our customers,” he said. “We need to get together and help.”
Queensland Hotels Association chief executive Bernie Hogan said Let it Pour was a great way for pubs to support people struggling in the drought.
“I'd encourage our members to get behind this event to help raise funds for our farmers, who are doing it really tough.” he said.
