30/04/2026
Sounds like a lot of fun was had - support the locals and have fun doing it!! Love it!
May have to pop down to try the fire fixation before it sells out - hope to see you there 😉
A NEW community-driven beer initiative is making waves in Dunsborough, with a view to making the region a safer place to live and visit.
Bailey Brewing Co's first Community Fundraising Brew, Fire Fixation, was launched over the weekend at the South West Craft Beer Festival.
Created in collaboration with the dedicated volunteers of the Dunsborough Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade, the smoked lager not only drew crowds for its unique flavour profile, but also for an interactive fire hose challenge which gave festival-goers a hands-on appreciation of the work our firies do.
For every Fire Fixation purchased at the festival, attendees were invited to test their aim on a fire hose target - a popular activation which kept brigade volunteers busy throughout the day, while raising both awareness and funds.
The community focus continues outside of the festival, with 100 percent of the proceeds from every sale going towards new communication radios for the brigade, essential equipment to help keep volunteers safe and connected when responding to fires.
The beer itself was carefully crafted through collaboration between Bailey Brewing Co Head Brewer, Ryan Harris, and members of the brigade.
"This wasn't just about brewing a beer — it was about creating something that genuinely reflects the people behind it," Harris said.
"We spent time with the brigade, talking through flavour, style and what would best represent them.
"The result is a clean, easy-drinking lager with a subtle smoky edge — a nod to the environment they work in every day."
Dunsborough Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade Captain, Mal Ballard, said initiatives like this one made a real difference to the brigade.
"Not only does it help raise vital funds for essential equipment like radios, it also raises awareness of what we do — which is incredibly valuable for our brigade and the community," he said.
Bailey Brewing Co Director, Steve Bailey said the initiative marks the beginning of an ongoing commitment to community-focused brewing.
"As a local business, we see it as our responsibility to give back to the community that supports us," he said.
"Fire Fixation is the first of what we plan to make a regular Community Fundraising Brew series — partnering with local groups and causes to create something meaningful, raise funds, and bring people together.
"This is just the start."
Fire Fixation is now available on tap at Bailey Brewing Co Dunsborough until sold out.
