Four years on from launching the Victorian Barley Program, Asahi Beverages hosted an evening with 30 of the state’s top barley farmers to mark the occasion.
Asahi, owner of Carlton & United Breweries, is Australia’s biggest brewer, producing more than 300 million litres of beer at its Abbotsford Brewery in Victoria. VB, Carlton Draught, and Great Northern are three of the beers brewed at the site.
Every year, CUB uses 40,000 tonnes of barley grown in Victoria.
In 2021, Asahi restructured its barley supply chain by removing intermediaries like bulk grain handlers and buying barley directly from around 30 growers in the Mallee And Wimmera regions.
Asahi Beverages Group CEO Amanda Sellers said it was a privilege for the company to use the state’s barley.
“Our relationship with our farming partners and rural communities is extremely important and we wanted to thank them by sharing a meal, a beer, and a few stories.
“We elevated our partnership with farmers three years ago when we launched the Victorian Barley Program. Our direct relationship with growers helps ensure we only use the best barley.
“The program provides us with clear oversight of the growing process, and we can trace barley right back to the paddock. In addition, it gives growers the confidence and financial security to invest in new technology and make improvements in farming sustainability and efficiency.”
Riordan Grain runs the program, with CEO Jim Riordan saying it was a success because it helps Victorian farming communities.
“One of the special things about beer is that people come together to enjoy it socially. The local pub and the beer that it serves have long been an incredibly important part of rural Victoria. We raise our glass to Victorian farmers for making it possible,” Riordan said.
