A prominent Sunshine Coast restaurant has closed after testing times, while the brewery that shared its name with the venue has clarified its position.
The operators of the Brouhaha Maleny venue took to social media on Monday morning to announce the closure.
“We would like to sincerely thank our local customers, staff and suppliers for the support, kindness and encouragement we have received throughout our time at the venue. The messages, visits and well wishes over the past few weeks have meant a great deal to us.
“A special thank-you to the local farmers and producers who we have showcased on our menu. One of our goals was to bring the venue back to celebrating the incredible local produce it had become known for. We’re proud to have played a part in sharing your quality ingredients and stories with our customers.”
They revealed why the doors were closed.
“The hospitality landscape has changed significantly, and the increasing costs and demands that come with running a restaurant today have made it incredibly challenging.”
“After careful consideration, we believe this is the right decision for our family and our future. To everyone who shared a meal, enjoyed a beer, celebrated with us, worked alongside us or supported us along the way, thank you.”
Brouhaha Brewery owner and director Julian Leigh said the closure marked the end of an important chapter in the company’s history, but said it was not a reflection of his company and its direction.
“Maleny is where Brouhaha began, and it will always be a significant part of our story,” he said.
“We are incredibly grateful to the customers, staff and community who supported us from day one and helped build the brand into what it is today.”
“While it’s sad to see the Maleny venue close, it’s important for people to understand that Brouhaha Brewery has not operated that site since February 2024.”
Brouhaha Brewery released a statement detailing the history of the Maleny venue.
“(It) will always hold a special place in our story as the site where Brouhaha first opened its doors in 2016,” it read.
“As the Brouhaha Brewery business grew, it became clear that the Maleny site could no longer support the scale of production required to meet demand. In May 2023, Brouhaha opened its purpose-built brewery and hospitality venue in Baringa and relocated approximately 95 per cent of brewing and production operations to the new facility.
“The decision to sell the Maleny venue followed the opening of Brouhaha’s purpose-built brewery in Baringa. With brewing operations increasingly centred on the new facility, Brouhaha chose to focus on production, distribution and brand growth.
“The venue was sold to experienced hospitality operators with strong food and restaurant backgrounds, while Brouhaha continued supplying beer and licensing the brand under a franchise-style agreement.”
The brewery noted the difficulties that the hinterland operation faced.
“Like many hospitality businesses across Australia, the industry continues to face significant challenges from rising costs, increasing taxes and ongoing staffing pressures. We acknowledge these challenges and the difficult decisions that many small business owners are being forced to make.”
Mr Leigh said his company was thriving.
“Our brewery, venue and production facility in Baringa continue to perform strongly,” he said.
“While the closure of the Maleny venue is disappointing for everyone who has been part of its journey, it is important to clarify that this development does not reflect the financial performance or outlook of Brouhaha Brewery.
“The Brouhaha brand continues to grow, with increasing demand for its products and ongoing investment in production capacity. Most recently, the brewery has purchased two new 8000l fermentation vessels to support continued growth and future expansion.”
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The brewery paid tribute to the people who were involved in the hinterland business.
“While the Maleny venue has been independently owned and operated from Brouhaha Baringa since 2024, we remain incredibly grateful to everyone who has been part of its journey over the years, including the current owners, staff, customers and local community.”
Brouhaha Brewery will honour valid Brouhaha gift vouchers purchased through the Maleny venue at its Baringa brewery and taproom. Customers with questions regarding voucher redemption are encouraged to contact the brewery directly.
