Independent craft beer brewers strut their stuff at Great Australasian Beer SpecTAPular

Reeves said the economic downturn in Australia meant consumers had less to spend on beer, and craft brewers weren’t able to lower prices in ways the big brewing companies could.

The craft brewing sector has faced turbulence recently, with established companies including the Deeds Brewing and Exit Brewing going under. Firms such as Bad Shepherd and Hawkers are going through voluntary administration and restructuring.

Events such as the weekend’s GABS expo offered the 150 brewers exhibiting their wares a way to engage with consumers and take a break from the gloom. In The Pavilion shed, producers spruiked more than 500 beers, infused with ingredients ranging from bacon to oysters.

Attendees Chris Vran and girlfriend Brittany Prentice, of Frankston, were among those tasting beers alongside friends on Sunday.

Craft beer enthusiast Vran said GABS allowed drinkers to try different flavours and types of beer from around the country.

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GABS spokesman John Thomson said he hoped consumers’ good vibes for craft beers at the event would continue out in the community.

“We need for the consumers to remember that with all those beautiful little craft breweries they love, to support them on a Friday night, on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon, go round, visit, have a beer, ginger beer or craft beer,” Thomson said.

“Just go and spend some time and give them some love, if we want them to be there next week, next month and next year.”