The Sydney Royal Beer and Cider Show is putting alcoholic ginger beer in the spotlight for its 2025 competition, introducing a new standalone ginger beer class and champion title.

But brewers need to get in quick, with entries to the competition closing this Wednesday, 18 June.

Sydney Royal Wine, Beer & Cider and Distilled Spirits Committee Chair Angus Barnes said he encouraged businesses to test out their top brews against some of Australia’s best palates and welcomes ginger beer to the table.

“As our industry continues to adapt to consumer trends and needs, it is important that our competition classes and awards reflect that growth, which is why I am delighted to announce the introduction of a standalone ginger beer class and champion trophy,” said Barnes.

“As a beer alternative, ginger beer has continued to see consistent growth over the past few years, with many brewers taking their own unique approach to the beverage to provide a different product offering.

“The only catch is, it must be alcoholic and brewed to ensure it falls within competition categorisation.”

In addition to the chance to market a medal-winning product, Sydney Royal Beer & Cider Chair of Judges Ian Kingham said the unique benefit to entering competitions like the Sydney Royal is gaining access to the line-up of expert judges who meticulously taste each exhibit and provide individual product feedback.

“The quality and experience of this year’s judges is exceptional,” shared Kingham.

“We have a distinctly diverse group of judges from brewing, media, and sensory backgrounds, and representation from family-run, small and large businesses, all of varying ages, experience, and gender.”

Taking place between 1–2 September, the Sydney Royal Beer & Cider Show offers brewers the chance to showcase their finest creations to some of the best judges in the business, receiving valuable industry feedback and recognition for their product.

Brewers have the option to enter 45 different classes across beer, cider, perry, and reduced or no alcohol beer and cider, with 15 champion titles up for grabs.

“The Sydney Royal Beer & Cider Show has always been highly recognised in the industry for its professionalism and quality of process, product, and procedures. I welcome all exhibits and hope that this year’s show is again a highlight of the calendar year,” said Kingham.

With entries closing at midnight on Wednesday, 18 June, the Royal Agricultural Society of NSW is urging brewers to get in quick and enter so they don’t miss out.

For more information on how to enter, visit the Sydney Royal website or contact the Beer & Cider Event Manager at beercider@rasnsw.com.au or 02 9704 1199.

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