May 2nd, 2022Putting small scale producers on the map

The State Government is helping to put Victoria’s innovative small-scale and craft producers on the foodie map and showcasing the exceptional food and drink they have to offer.

Minister for Agriculture Mary-Anne Thomas today visited Stomping Ground Brewery and Beer Hall in Moorabbin to announce more than $750,000 of grants under the State Government’s Small Scale and Craft Program which have been awarded to 10 Victorian producers as part of Stream Three grants program.
Kingston Collective has been awarded $43,000 for its Bayside Beer Belt project. The funding will support the creation of the Bayside Beer Belt tours which are set to offer an immersive and educational experience for visitors at over 10 local craft-breweries, including Stomping Ground Brewery and Beer Hall.
Melbourne’s south eastern suburbs are home to a number of unique local breweries and distilleries with the Bayside Beer Belt encouraging Victorians to support their local breweries and tap into its hidden tourism potential.
Stream Three provided grants of between $25,000 and $100,000 to eligible small-scale and craft agribusinesses to support projects that create a unique visitor experience, engage multiple small-scale and craft producers, and put their regions on the map.
The Government’s Small-Scale and Craft Program has awarded grants to more than 300 businesses and invested $6.6 million in the sector.
The Small-Scale and Craft Program supports the 10-year agriculture strategy to create a sector that is strong, innovative and sustainable.
For more information visit: agriculture.vic.gov.au/smallscaleandcraftprogram
Mary-Anne Thomas said:
“We’re proudly backing our small-scale producers because they create unique experiences and attract visitors to all parts of Victoria, which supports local jobs.”
Member for Bentleigh Nick Staikos said:
“The benefits of this program flow to our hardworking and resilient small-scale and craft producers, helping them attract more visitors to the area.”
Stomping Ground Brewery Co-Founder Justin Joiner said:
“The Bayside Beer Belt is set to showcase the amazing group of producers in our local area, thanks to the Stream Three Small-Scale and Craft grant. Community is at the core of everything we do so the opportunity to join the beer belt initiative was very exciting for us.”
Kingston Collective Founder Natalie Wilson said:
“The Kingston Collective is extremely excited to receive the stream three grant which will enable us to develop the Bayside Beer Belt in collaboration with the exceptional local Bayside craft breweries and distilleries. Bayside is the perfect location for a ‘Beercation’ for both beer enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.”