Greenslopes residents Mick Guy and Siena Perry, together with their mates Mikarla and Luke Jappinen, have opened Semi-Pro Brewing Co. in Manilla Street. This latest addition to Brisbane’s growing craft beer community is the newest (perhaps, only?) microbrewery and taproom in East Brisbane.
The idea to set up a microbrewery has been brewing for four years. It all started when the guys were homebrewing together for fun in a Geelong Street backyard.
Semi-Pro’s site in Manilla Street used to be an old rope factory. Today, they are ready to continue the tradition of local production with care and expertise. The 314-square metre production facility is now filled with huge, shiny tanks, and a trendy but comfortable 60-seat customer area. The family-friendly bar is now open from Thursdays to Sundays.
“When we were home brewing in the backyard of Geelong St, we did actually joke about how awesome it would be to open a brewery and taproom in the Manilla St warehouses over the fence.”, said Mick, brewer, bartender and Mr Semi-Pro himself.
“We started winning local awards, began ‘gypsy’ brewing and then selling wholesale to bars including Tipplers Taps, the Scratch and Bloodhound bar to name a few. That was the relative easy bit,” he added.
The brewery opened in mid-March, just in time for Mick’s birthday.
“It was quite a birthday present, to say the least,” he said.
“People ask if we’re going to change the name. But being semi-pro is knowing there is always more to learn and enjoying the process. It’s about knowing this is meant to be fun first and foremost.”
From a simple backyard brewing to gypsy brewing and winning brewing competitions in Brewsvegas, the Semi-Pro family is now proud to open their doors to craft beer enthusiasts looking for quality beer on tap.
Equipped with recipes that have been refined for three years, Semi-Pro’s current biggest sellers are the East Brisbane Lager and the Manilla St Pale.
Expect more interesting brews from Semi-Pro as they continue to experiment with different recipes and blends in their new home.
The Semi-Pro family is hosting several events in the coming days. Check out their Facebook page to learn more.
Business hours: Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday 4:00 – 10:00 p.m.
Saturday 12:00 – 10:00 p.m.
Sunday 12:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Monday and Wednesday Closed