Introduction
There are many craft breweries that have popped up in the Sunshine Coast area, but there is one favourite that we just keep coming back to. Say hello to “Sunshine Brewery.”
Located on Fishermans Road in Kuluin, this is something of a hidden gem on a road that houses many businesses. From the outside, the small door holds no sign of what is on the other side. What is on the other side, is charm, quirkiness, friendship, and great ales.
Why review it?
This brewery became a favourite back in 2020. While out one day, I stopped there to pick up some takeaway ale for my dad. My dad’s favourite ale is Little Creatures, and I distinctly remember asking for “something comparable” with that.
Then, as Dad and I were out together one day, I pointed it out. We stopped for a drink and as they say, the rest is history. This is the 4th year we have been dropping in!
First Impressions
First impressions are centred around its quirkiness. If you looked at just the entrance, a glass door gives no sign of what is to come. What’s to come, is somewhere that is filled with miscellaneous items that the owners have accrued on their life journey and drank on that journey too! (They have excellent taste with the Jim Barry McRae Wood Shiraz!)
It’s a laid-back environment. A variety of high and low seating areas are available as well as a comfortable soft seating area. Children have access to a play area. Most of all, it doesn’t pretend to be anything it isn’t. Simplicity, good ales, and friendly staff compliment the brewery.
Crowd and Clientele
The brewery attracts everyone. From families to singles. From couples to tradies. From regulars to new customers. It’s family friendly and with the food trucks, events and trivia night, there is something for everyone.
Staff Interaction
The staff are amazing. Daryle and Craig, Sunshine’s owners and brewers, are charming, personable, and great to talk to. They know regulars by name and quite often, have your drink ready as you walk in the door! They are more than happy to offer up advice for which ale to try and will happily dish out samples for you.
Beer Selection
There are a regular rotation of lagers, ales and stouts that are available. Tasting can be done as a formal tasting paddle or if you are unsure of what your hearts desire is, the owners Daryle and Craig may hand you a sample to try. Just to ‘wet your whistle’ so to speak.
Alcohol content ranges from a mild 3.5 ABV and can, dependant on what is available, be in the double figures. The prices stay competitive and fair. There is also a broad selection for those who don’t drink and are the designated driver.
Food
Each Thursday, Friday (and sometimes at the weekend) a variety of food trucks come to the brewery and park up outside serving their delightful menus. Akropolis of Noosa, King of the Wings, Sunshine Toastie Company and more. Everyone a delight and reasonably priced.
Potato chips can be purchased in the brewery as well as peanuts and cheese platters. Occasionally sourdough bread is available for purchase, made from the hops of the brewery.
Special Events
Sunshine brewery offers up a variety for their patrons. Cotton Tree Meats partner with the brewery to hold their BBQ classes there. Live music, monthly trivia nights, Christmas parties and more are held.
Foodie events are also held regularly. Oysters and beer, Octoberfest and more.
Merchandise
Branded merchandise is readily available. Stamped with the breweries name and those of a variety of beers, you can find shirts, fleeces, t shirts, hats, and glasses.
Overall
The warmth and friendliness of this brewery are truly exceptional. From the moment you walk in, you are not just a customer – you’re treated like a friend. The impressive selection of ales is complemented by Daryle and Craig’s genuine enthusiasm and willingness to answer any and all questions about the brewing process. Their passion makes every visit a hugely enjoyable and welcoming experience.
