From Parched to Brew Baron: New Owners Rebrand and Renovate Local Brewery

When Parched West End Brewery fell on hard times earlier this year, a family of three came to the rescue. Brad Sayer purchased the troubled brewery back in June with his wife Rita Ferraro and stepson Gibran Ferraro Firmo. After months of renovations and rebranding, The Brew Baron Beer Company is now open.


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The rebranding brings a quirky ‘Baron’ character representing the owners’ commitment to quality and value. Customers can now enjoy a new deck, pool room, big screen TVs, leather sofas, improved food and drink menus, and the return of live music nights.

“My wife, stepson and I have purchased the brewery, and made the changes that we think will improve things, for our customers,” said Brad, who is the founder and managing director at The Brew Baron Beer Company. 

Photo credit: The Brew Baron Beer Co/Facebook

 At the helm in the kitchen is his stepson Gibran, a qualified chef who insists on only the freshest local ingredients to maximise flavour. Originally from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Gibran uses his culinary expertise to ensure the staff turn quality ingredients into mouthwatering dishes.

Photo credit: The Brew Baron Beer Co/Facebook

“Gibran is a qualified chef and has led improvements to the food menu by using fresher ingredients, introducing his native South American flavours and adding more value-for-money pricing,” Brad added.

“In the brewhouse, we’ve been fortunate to keep long-standing great brewer, Matt Wolfe, but given him greater autonomy to do what he does best – brew great beers. And we’ve changed the customer area to provide a more engaging and comfortable experience. Finally, our customers will find Gibran and/or me onsite, at all times, so they can approach us and share their thoughts directly with us,” he said.

Brew Baron
Photo credit: The Brew Baron Beer Co/Facebook

The new Brew Baron aims to remain a small, family-owned West End brewery with the neighbourhood’s support.


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Stop by The Brew Baron Beer Company to taste the improved brews and check out the new vibe. The baron’s doors are open 12:00 pm to late, Wednesday to Sunday at 391 Montague Rd. follow them on Facebook to learn more.

Published 13-September-2023

West End’s Parched Brewery Seeks New Ownership Opportunity Through Voluntary Administration Process

Popular West End craft brewery Parched Brewery is looking for new owners after entering voluntary administration due to the ‘extra challenges’ brought by the pandemic.


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When Parched Brewery opened at Montague Road in West End in December 2021, they encountered some trials and difficulties. 

They opened during a challenging time for the hospitality industry due to the pandemic. Additionally, within months of the brewery’s opening, the lower level of the venue was submerged underwater during floods.

Parched Brewery
Photo credit: Parched Brewery/Google Maps

Despite these trials, the brewery made a name for its high-quality beers that celebrate the unique flavors and ingredients of the region. The brewery’s unique and flavorful beers have earned it a strong reputation in the local craft beer scene.

Photo credit: Ernest Wong/Google Maps

Besides a selection of beers, they have a range of snacks including burgers, nachos, and bites such as tempura prawns, fries, and spring rolls. They also have vegan and vegetarian options available. 

In March 2023, head brewer and owner Carl Hallion thought it’s time to find a new person to run the business.

Parched Brewery
Photo credit: Parched Brewery/Google Maps

Bankruptcy and insolvency firm SV Partners will help manage its financial affairs, review contracts, and create a viable plan for moving forward. Mr Hallion is working with SV Partners’ Anne Meagher and David Stimpson as the business continues trading as normal.


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Potential buyers would have the opportunity to take over an established business with a loyal customer base, a strong brand reputation, and a talented team of brewers and staff. For anyone looking to enter the craft beer industry, this is a unique opportunity to acquire an established business with a loyal following and a reputation for brewing exceptional beer.

Published 6-April-2023