Media release

Anticipation builds for AIBA as entries skyrocket

With less than a month until judging kicks off, the 2013 Australian International Beer Awards (AIBA) has announced a record 1,480 entries for 2013, an increase of 12 per cent on last year.

Local brewers have continued their support of the AIBA, with Australian entries increasing by 17 per cent, while 145 entries were received from across the ditch in New Zealand, a 55 per cent increase on 2012.

From Belarus to Singapore, Germany to Turkey, entries have flooded in from 270 brewers in 35 countries. An increase in entries has been experienced in key brewing regions including Brazil (40 per cent), Japan (31 per cent) and the United States (3 per cent).

AIBA Chief Judge Brad Rogers said the increase in entries is testament to the AIBA’s enhanced format and strong reputation in global brewing circles.

“The AIBA is the largest and most prestigious showcase of beer and brewing excellence in the Asia Pacific region and it is great to have the support of brewers worldwide.

“With record entries received and a number of new and exciting changes to be implemented, 2013 is set to be a huge year for the AIBA,” said Rogers.

A stellar line-up of judges will descend on Melbourne Showgrounds from Monday, 8 April, including experts from Norway, Belgium, United States, United Kingdom, Japan and New Zealand.

New this year is a medium size brewery category and trophy, as well as new trophies for Australian Champion Beer of Show and International Champion Beer of Show.

Now in its 21st year, the AIBA is the pre-eminent showcase for premium beer and brewing excellence in the Asia Pacific region and is presented by the Royal Agricultural Society of Victoria (RASV) in conjunction with the University of Ballarat. Judging will be held from Monday, 8 to Friday, 12 April 2013 at Melbourne Showgrounds.