New business brewing for Mackay Waterfront

Red Dog Brewery, which already has a presence in Chain Street, is going to open a second outlet at Bluewater Quay.

J&J Brewing Co Pty Ltd, better known as Red Dog, has been selected as the new licensee for the former Ashtart site following a competitive tender process.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the site was well situated on Bluewater Quay overlooking the Pioneer River and formed part of the Mackay Waterfront PDA (Priority Development Area).

He said Red Dog was planning to open a restaurant, bar, and micro-brewery onsite.

“This is an excellent outcome for Bluewater Quay, and the City Centre more generally, to create new activation opportunities, with a business that already has local support and recognition.

“The Mackay Waterfront project has been developed by council to improve tourism, liveability and economic activity in Mackay’s CBD and waterfront.

“Red Dog will be a great addition to this key location between the City Centre and the newly established River Wharves in River Street.”

The new Red Dog site will complement the existing location in Chain Street, with Bluewater Quay becoming the main retail outlet. Chain Street will remain as the main production location.

Red Dog co-owners Jason Egan and Jamie Woods said there would be a period for fit-out prior to opening at the new location.

“We hope to be open by late June,’’ Mr Egan said.

“We see this waterfront tenancy as a great opportunity to create a unique brewery overlooking the Pioneer River.”