A local brewery and artist have come together to create a unique collaboration that celebrates the beauty of Gerringong. Stoic Brewery, a family owned business, has partnered with renowned local artist Heather Philpott to produce a limited edition Pacific Golden Ale featuring Philpott's stunning artwork of Werri Beach.

Sitting down with business owner Lisa Prosser, she admits her main role is looking after her six grandchildren (with another imminent), so that her family are free to task and run the establishment! Managed by son Andrew and aided by other family members, the Stoic Brewery has become firmly implanted in the Gerringong landscape with its ever evolving craft beer line in the past seven years.  

The friendship between Lisa and Heather was brewed in the Anglican Church in Gerringong decades earlier and so the combination of their talents was inevitable.

Lisa Prosser and Heather Philpott at Stoic Brewery

Heather Philpott, who transitioned from teaching to become a full-time artist in 2018, is known for her captivating acrylic paintings that capture the essence of the ocean. Heather has a deep passion for capturing beautiful ocean moments in acrylic paintings. She loves to explore the wondrous, refreshing aquamarines of the ocean’s waters, greys of a stormy day, the secret gold and pinks of dawn, the soft hues of dusk and the incredible creatures of the underwater world.

“In February 2018, surrounded by so much beautiful inspiration (in Gerringong) I finally found the courage to buy a handful of paint tubes and a few brushes and just have a go. I was overwhelmed by the encouragement and praise from my family, friends and local community and before I knew what was happening my art business was born. By June I was having my first exhibition. There began my wonderful adventure into the world of a professional artist. Sometimes dreams really do come true.” she said.

The teamwork in this instance between the two businesses is the art of creation of both art and beer. 

“This is a celebration of Gerringong beer and it is a great collaboration between Heather Philpott Art and ourselves. Our aim is that this beer is distributed in Canberra and Sydney and all over the local area to celebrate Werri beach and all that our beautiful Gerringong has to offer. The beer is an easy drinking Pacific golden ale and the can art depicts North Werri Beach. In doing this project together we are building each other up and creating awareness of each other's businesses! It feels good to be proud of each other's local products.”

This isn't the first time Stoic Brewery has embraced the local art scene. Last year, they collaborated with artist Holly Pinzone from Ellow Creative in Berry on a New Zealand Pilsner can, which has become a popular staple in their core range.

Heather and Stoic launch their new beer at the brewery on Friday 24 January at 5 pm for those who are lucky enough to get a first taste.