Renders credit: Marcus Syvertsen @ Little Road Studio.
Located in one of South Australia’s most picturesque landscapes, the Fleurieu Peninsula, Fleurieu Gin is embarking on a spectacular expansion that aims to transform the distillery into a vibrant destination space, drawing in locals and tourists alike.
With the completion of the first phase and the second stage almost underway, the distillery’s vision, and that of owner Shane Magor, is rapidly taking shape and set to be a new hot spot for gin lovers and all South Aussies.
‘It was always my vision to have everything at one location’, says Shane. ‘We’ve built a new Fleurieu Gin Production Plant and Distillery on site, which will significantly increase capacity for production, and now we want to offer something more to both locals and tourists to the area, with everything from tastings and tours at a cellar door, along with a restaurant and function space.’
Located atop a hilly road with picturesque views of the coastline, Shane is excited to see the plans for the land that’s been in his family for three generations come to life.
‘The new manufacturing facility is three to four times bigger than the shed we were producing our gin from in Myponga—it was only finished a few weeks ago, and we’re still in the process of transitioning everything to the new space.’
Stage two of the expansion, set to commence sometime in early March, pending grant approval and approval variation for greater capacity, aims to elevate the site into a distinguished destination venue, with the plans of being fully open and operational by September this year.
‘We were approved back in September 2022 at a smaller capacity, and now, due to interest and demand, we’ve gone back for an approval variation, changing it from 75 people to 200’, says Shane.
‘The increased capacity will allow us to hold larger functions, including weddings etc., and since we’re already getting great interest and people enquiring about the location, it just makes sense—we really do have pretty amazing views up here.’
Besides a cellar door and restaurant, the proposed plan includes extending operating hours for functions until midnight, incorporating live music offerings in outdoor areas, and introducing a new terrace bar area with an awning to enhance visitors’ experience.
And, although still a bit further on the horizon, Shane has grand plans for stage three.
‘Subject to approval, of course, we would love to have three or four cabins on-site and a powered site for campers, for those who want to stay the night after having a few extra gins. The cabins would be fully equipped with all the bells and whistles and allow people to truly experience the prime spot we have here in the Fleurieu.’
The brainchild of Shane and Kylie Magor, Fleurieu Gin was conceived back in November 2021 and born from a love for the craft that began with a single gin and tonic. Previously in real estate, Shane lost his passion for the industry and needed a new career path, and was just fortunate to be part of a family with some beautiful farming land in Myponga.
‘This was my Grandpa’s land that was used to run cattle and sheep, and although I have many fond memories of growing up here, I’ve always felt it was underutilised’, says Shane. I spoke to my Dad about taking over the highest point on the farm to first build a facility and then my visions for a cellar door etc, and it’s just great to see it come together.’
Fast forward to today, with the distillery’s growth surpassing initial expectations, it has clearly necessitated the move to a larger space to accommodate its growing success.
And, whilst this proposed expansion will increase Fleurieu Gin’s exposure as a top gin distillery destination in SA, it’s also about the significant contribution to the local economy.
‘There are many benefits for the region and the state’, says Shane. ‘The project is expected to create over 20 jobs, providing significant returns to the local economy as well as an added attraction for tourists exploring one of SA’s most scenic spots.’
Fleurieu Gin’s success story is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit and the region’s potential as a burgeoning tourist destination. As the plans for the distillery to evolve into a multifaceted destination come to fruition, check out the distillery’s various gins on offer on FG’s website or treat yourself to a bottle via one of their many stockists around SA.
What: Fleurieu Gin.
Where: 464 Forktree Road, Myponga, SA 5202.
For further info, click here.
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