Shelter opens cafe ahead of brewery

Shelter Brewing Co has opened a cafe on the Busselton foreshore, ahead of its brewery launch expected later in the year.

The cafe is brewing Margaret River Roasting Co coffee and serving locally made products including cinnamon scrolls, bagels and ice-cream.

Shelter Brewing Co general manager Paul Maley said the cafe, which opened last week, had received great patronage so far.

“Being able to offer something to all demographics, residents and tourists, those who like beer and those who prefer a morning coffee, is pretty exciting to us,” he said.

“Shelter is a landmark building and we’re at the pointy end now, and can’t wait to open and welcome everyone in.”

Mr Maley said a date for the brewery opening would soon be announced.

The business had previously flagged its opening for spring this year.

Construction of the brewery began mid-last year, with the venue designed to include a glass wall that exposed the main brewery.

Mr Maley said Shelter would be a family-friendly venue, which included an outdoor area for children.

Fermenters and brite tanks have already been installed, and can hold up to 5,000 and 10,000 litres of beer respectively.

The 1,850-square brewery site is licensed to serve 650 people.

Family-owned Bailey Brewing Company is also expected to open in the Swan Valley later in the year.

Fellow craft brewer Running with Thieves was expected to launch a 400-capacity brewery in South Fremantle earlier this year, but delayed its launch to summer 2020-21 due to COVID-19.