MEDIA RELEASE

For Immediate Release Thursday, 4 October 2012

New Chief Judge for the Australian International Beer Awards

The Royal Agricultural Society of Victoria (RASV) in conjunction with the University of Ballarat is pleased to announce the appointment of Brad Rogers to the role of Chief Judge for the Australian International Beer Awards (AIBA). Brads appointment coincides with the enhancements being made to the Awards and the judging process to better reflect the current brewing practices and trends of the beer industry. Brad is a member of the Australian International Beer Awards Industry Advisory Group introduced in 2011 and has extensive judging experience both locally including the AIBA and internationally at the World Beer Cup, Great American Beer Festival, Brew NZ and most recently Beer Asia. Brad will be replacing Peter Manders who has served successfully in this role since 2005. Brad is highly respected in the Australian beer and brewing industry with eighteen years experience as a brewer in the large and small sectors. He is one of the founders of Stone & Wood Brewing Company in Byron Bay. He has been integral in establishing the Craft Beer Industry Association, and is the current Chairman for the Association Mr Mark OSullivan, CEO, RASV said, The RASV is thrilled to have Brad Rogers join the AIBA as Chief Judge in a move that accompanies exciting changes to the Awards moving forward. Brad is a passionate industry figure and innovator whose experience as a brewer and judge will strengthen the Awards and its appeal to brewers worldwide, Mr OSullivan said. We also acknowledge and thank Peter Manders for his support and contribution to the Awards over the past eight years. Entries to the 2013 AIBA open from Monday, 7 January and close on Friday, 15 February. Judging begins on Monday, 8 April 2012. [ENDS] For media inquiries please contact Wrights for the RASV: Lynne Hills, +61 405 277 562 / lhills@wrights.com.au Jess Jafer, +61 403 042 855 / jjafer@wrights.com.au The Australian International Beer Awards (AIBA) is the pre-eminent showcase for premium beer and brewing excellence in the Asia Pacific region to promote and celebrate quality. In 2012 the AIBA celebrated its 20th anniversary, and has grown to become one of the most respected awards in the beer industry, receiving record entries of 1,344 from 41 countries across the globe. It attracts national and international judges, who judge across 40 classes of beer. In late 2011 a new Industry Advisory Group was appointed to further enhance the relevance of the prestigious competition. Members represent a broad interest base including small and large breweries, education, hospitality and distribution. Presented annually by the Royal Agricultural Society of Victoria (RASV) in conjunction with the University of Ballarat, the AIBA offers a unique platform for industry promotion. For further information visit www.beerawards.com