James Boag Brewery ends 145 years of production in Launceston
James Boag Brewery brewed its final batch on September 16, ending 145 years of production.
Workers at James Boag Brewery completed their final batch of beer on September 16, marking an end to 145 years of brewing at the Launceston site. The brewery, operating since 1881, will close in November with all workers remaining employed until November 6.
Owner Lion, a subsidiary of Japanese corporation Kirin, blamed declining beer sales for the shutdown. The brewery has been running at less than a fifth of its capacity.
Workers felt frustrated that they had done everything possible to keep the site open. The bar and restaurant will remain open, and Lion will repay the $1 million Tasmanian Government contributed to the $2.4 million Brewhouse completed six months ago.
- 145
- Years in operation
- 1881
- Operating since
- September 16, 2026
- Final batch date
- $1 million
- Government contribution returned
Why it mattersThe loss of a brewery that operated for 145 years ends a significant piece of Tasmania's industrial heritage and costs jobs in the region.
AustraliaMajor blow to Launceston employment and Tasmanian beer heritage; the government's $1 million rebate will fund a new Beer Tasmania support organisation.
Corroborated bytheadvocate.com.au
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 7 d ago
