Richard Adamson, Co-Founder of Young Henrys, was recently awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award and the 2024 Beer & Brewer Awards, and we spoke to him about what the recognition means and his thoughts on Australia’s craft beer industry.
Adamson was recognised by the judges as someone who has not only played a significant role in Australia’s craft beer landscape, but who also is playing a major role in the industry’s future through his teaching at TAFE and willingness to share his knowledge with the next generation of Australian brewers.
Speaking about what the award means to him, Adamson told Beer & Brewer: “It was a very humbling experience as it is quite the honour board to be joining. Many of those people previously recognised are my heroes and mentors. I’m very grateful for the kind words and the support of colleagues at Young Henrys, TAFE NSW, the IBA and IWBA that have afforded me some amazing opportunities.”
He also shared his thoughts on how the industry has changed over his career and what still excites him.
“On the whole, the industry has become more professional and the quality is of a much higher calibre,” said Adamson. “It’s much rarer to get a bad beer from independent brewers. I’m very pleased to see more diversity in industry participation, albeit slowly, as we start to better reflect what modern Australia looks like.”
He added: “I think camaraderie and collaboration that exists within the brewing industry is something we shouldn’t take for granted. It doesn’t really exist in any other industry I’ve been involved in.”
One of the most consistent subjects mentioned by the judges in nominating Adamson for the award was his work as an advocate for the industry, with the IBA and his teaching at TAFE. With this background of industry support, Beer & Brewer asked Adamson for his thoughts on the future of the industry.
“There’s no doubt the last few years have been the toughest environment for breweries economically,” he said.
“The industry’s ability to adapt and innovate will ensure that beer remains relevant to the occasions that matter most to people. Our skills as brewers will also be important in tackling some of the world’s biggest challenges as fermentation is becoming increasingly important in the industrial application of scientific discoveries in the fields of pharmaceuticals and novel foods.
“Most importantly, we cannot lose sight of our role in our communities – as places to gather and celebrate, providers of drinks to enjoy and ignite passion, and supporters of pubs, restaurants, bars, clubs, sport and cultural activities.”
A lifetime achievement award doesn’t come without a lifetime of achievements, but what does Adamson consider to be the highlights of his career?
“There’s been many,” he said. “A lot of struggles behind the scenes to change laws and get recognition of the economic and culture contribution that independent breweries make to Australia are gradual and incremental, but I hope will have a lasting impact of the industry.”
“I’m very proud of my contribution to the educational landscape for brewing and seeing former students succeed is always a source of joy.
“On the fun side, making beer with some of the best bands in the world (You Am I and Foo Fighters to name two of many) has come with many ‘pinch me’ moments, as have some of the more unusual collaborations we have carried out such as a touring exhibition of painting masters from Scotland.
“Beer has taken me to historical breweries in Belgium and across the UK, State and Federal Houses of Parliament, farms across the globe, backstage at festivals (including our own), onstage at countless conferences, and delivered so many friendships forged in the love of hops and malt.”
You can find more details of this year’s award winners and judges’ comments on Adamson on the Beer & Brewer website.