Just the thought of being in the outback and finding a pub with cold beer is enough to get travellers and adventurers excited. But now Parachilna in far north South Australia is home to the state’s most remote brewery. The Prairie Hotel is attracting a new crowd.
The Parachilna Brew Project (PBP) has started a microbrewery at the Prairie Hotel with fans of craft beers literally driving 5 hours from Adelaide to wet their lips to try their beers on tap.
Head brewer and second-generation Prairie Hotel operator, Lachy Fargher says when COVID hit they needed to think of something new to attract people back to the pub.
‘Being able to hang our hat on being the state’s most remote brewery was enough for the family to agree to give it a go.
“I thought there was no way mum would go for it, but she’s 100% behind the brewery and is so proud of that we have achieved in such a short time, said Lachy.
“We have people arrive by private plane, helicopter, 4×4, motorhomes, and even bicycles and one thing they all have in common is the want good food and great booze and if we can offer something unique – even better”
“We’re seeing many more young people as well as the grey nomads.
‘There have been so many challenges in setting up a remote brewery because it’s so hard to get product and trades at the drop of the hat, everything up here takes longer, so we must factor that it at all times,” said Lachy.
The most popular beer from PBP is the 3.5% Session Ale fondly named Albie after Lachy’s little nephew. After all, PBP and the Prairie Hotel has been a family business in Lachy’s family for over 30 years.
At this stage, due to the small space of the microbrewery there are no plans for tours but meet the brewer events are on the cards.
“People just love having a yarn to me about the beers, craft beer and the process,” added Lachy.
“I love encouraging people to try new things and change their mind about craft beer.”
Parachilna Brew Project
Where: High St &, West Terrace, Parachilna SA 5730
When: Wednesday – Sunday, 11am to 6.30pm.
Click here for more info.
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