James Smith is a leading figure in the Australian craft beer scene, best known for founding Good Beer Week and The Crafty Pint. With a background in journalism and a passion for beer, James has transformed how Australians discover and celebrate craft brews.
The Crafty Pint: Australia’s Premier Beer Platform
Launched in 2010, The Crafty Pint is Australia’s go-to online resource for craft beer enthusiasts. Created by James, this independent platform offers comprehensive beer news, reviews, and insights. Whether you’re a seasoned beer aficionado or new to the craft beer world, The Crafty Pint provides everything you need to navigate the ever-evolving industry, from brewery spotlights to deep dives into brewing trends
Good Beer Week: Melbourne’s Iconic Beer Festival
In 2011, James co-founded Good Beer Week, a festival that has cemented Melbourne’s reputation as a global craft beer destination. The event spans over 300 diverse activities, from beer and food pairings to innovative masterclasses. It brings together local and international breweries, offering attendees unique experiences that celebrate creativity and craftsmanship in brewing
Driving Community and Innovation
James’ initiatives have been instrumental in fostering a vibrant craft beer community. His work not only connects breweries and beer lovers but also supports the growth of small businesses within the industry. Through Good Beer Week, James has highlighted Melbourne’s dynamic beer culture, attracting thousands of visitors annually and boosting the city’s international profile
Listen Now
Want to learn more about James’ journey and his impact on Australia’s beer culture? Tune in to our latest episode of The Do Landers Podcast, where we explore his stories from the founding days of Good Beer Week to the growth of The Crafty Pint.