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In the heart of Melbourne’s north-west, Kensington has long been known as a vibrant and emerging suburb. With its eclectic mix of heritage charm and modern flair, it’s no surprise that this pocket of the city has become a hub for creative and craft-driven enterprises. The recent collaboration between three local icons—Bakery Hill Distillery, Bonehead Brewery, and Hardimans Hotel—has further solidified Kensington’s reputation as a community at the forefront of Melbourne’s craft beverage scene. The result of their joint effort? The Kensington Bitter Ale, a beer that’s as much a tribute to the suburb as it is a testament to the power of local collaboration.

Each player in this collaboration brings something uniquely Kensington to the table. Bakery Hill Distillery, an established name in the whisky world, has been crafting award-winning single malts in Melbourne since the late 1990s. Known for their dedication to traditional methods and local ingredients, Bakery Hill has earned its reputation as a cornerstone of Australia’s craft whisky movement.
Bonehead Brewery, on the other hand, is a relative newcomer but no less impactful. Since opening its doors, Bonehead has become a favorite among craft beer enthusiasts for its bold and innovative brews. Their ethos is simple: craft beer that doesn’t take itself too seriously, but always delivers on flavor.
Completing this trifecta is Hardimans Hotel, a beloved local pub that has long been a gathering place for beer lovers. Known for its warm atmosphere and impressive selection of craft beers, Hardimans is where Kensington’s residents and visitors alike come to enjoy a pint and good company.

The idea for the Kensington Bitter Ale was born out of a shared passion for craft and community. What began as casual conversations between these three local businesses soon evolved into a full-fledged collaboration, with each bringing their expertise to the brewing table.
The result is nothing short of spectacular. Kensington Bitter Ale is an inviting gold, with a malt sweetness that greets you from the first sip, followed by a refreshing hop bitterness that lingers on the palate. It’s the kind of beer that feels both familiar and exciting—a modern twist on a classic style that perfectly captures the spirit of Kensington.
The brew is more than just a beer; it’s a celebration of what makes Kensington special. The suburb’s unique blend of old and new, tradition and innovation, is reflected in every drop of Kensington Bitter Ale. It’s a beer that invites you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the best of what this burgeoning inner-city suburb has to offer.
“We intend on looking after locally based patrons and being a brewery for the community, first and foremost” Dinoto said.
As the first pints of Kensington Bitter Ale are poured at Hardimans Hotel, it’s clear that this collaboration has struck a chord. Locals and visitors alike are raving about the beer. The balance of malt sweetness and hop bitterness has hit the mark, creating a brew that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
But beyond the beer itself, this collaboration represents something bigger. It’s a testament to the power of local businesses coming together to create something truly special. In an industry that’s often dominated by large-scale operations, the Kensington Bitter Ale serves as a reminder that the best brews come from those who know their community best.

With the success of the Kensington Bitter Ale, there’s no doubt that Bakery Hill, Bonehead Brewery, and Hardimans Hotel have set a new standard for what local collaboration can achieve.
As Kensington continues to grow and evolve, so too will the opportunities for creative partnerships like this one.
So, next time you find yourself in Kensington, make sure to stop by Hardimans Hotel and raise a glass of Kensington Bitter Ale. It’s more than just a beer; it’s a taste of what makes this community so special. And who knows? It might just be the start of something even bigger.
Here’s to Kensington, and here’s to the craft pioneers who continue to put it on the map—one drink at a time.