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Geelong’s brewer of the iconic Furphy Refreshing Ale, Little Creatures, will expand its operations and create 10 new jobs thanks in part to support from the Andrews Labor Government.

Minister for Jobs, Innovation and Trade Martin Pakula visited Little Creatures in South Geelong today to confirm the Labor Government’s support for the company’s $11 million expansion.

In just six years of operation in Geelong, Little Creatures has built its brewery and hospitality operations to become a local favourite and major tourism drawcard for the region.

The company will expand its current base to incorporate a new space that will support community activities and also install a 651-kilowatt solar PV system to reduce its energy bill.

Little Creatures opened its Geelong operations in 2013, remodelling a woollen mill dating to 1923. The company has invested more than $60 million in the Geelong site which supports an effective full-time workforce of 70.

Founded in 1999 in Fremantle, Little Creatures produces the Geelong-born Furphy Refreshing Ale as well as Little Creatures, James Squire and Byron Bay Brewery brands. The Geelong brewery produces 30 million litres of beer a year.

Little Creatures took its first major steps on the east coast when it opened a dining hall in Fitzroy in 2005. The company is now a subsidiary of Lion Pty Ltd, in turn part of Japanese giant Kirin.

Victoria’s manufacturing industry contributes more than $30 billion to the state’s economy and employs nearly 280,000 people – more than any other state.

As noted by Minister for Jobs, Innovation and Trade Martin Pakula

“We’re proud to back this locally-operated manufacturing and hospitality business to be able to expand and create new jobs in Geelong, while investing in renewable energy to help make the business more sustainable.”

“Little Creatures’ new indoor facilities will provide a great weatherproof space for markets and events, supporting other local businesses and helping to grow the number of visitors to the region.”

As noted by Member for Geelong Christine Couzens

“Little Creatures is a Geelong institution and a genuine success story – the Government is proud to have been able to play its part in this expansion project.”

As noted by Little Creatures Geelong head brewer Jody Thomas

“We welcome this support from the Victorian Government, which will help us share the best Geelong has to offer with visitors from near and far.”