The history and future of 47 Main Street, Birregurra 3242
As we near the completion of building works at our tasting room, it feels like the right time to share why I chose to establish the distillery in the beautiful town of Birregurra more than 2.5 years ago.
Nestled in Victoria’s Otway hinterland, Birregurra was first surveyed in 1862 and has long been known for its rich agricultural history. By the late 1800s, the area was thriving with crops such as wheat, oats, barley, potatoes, peas, flax, and turnips, and quickly became a key marketplace for prime cattle and lambs—a legacy that continues today. According to the 2021 census, the town is home to just 942 residents, but what Birregurra lacks in size, it more than makes up for in pride and community spirit.
When I first explored the Otways in 2014, Birregurra instantly caught my heart. At the time, I couldn’t find the right property, so I turned my attention to Forrest, where I had the privilege of revitalising the Forrest General Store before selling it in 2022 to focus fully on my passion: crafting small-batch, high-quality spirits.
Now, after 11 years in the region, I’m honoured to be restoring the old building at 47 Main Street, Birregurra—a place steeped in local history.
Built in 1956 as a milk bar and fruit shop by Jean Inverarity, later run by Dawn and Len Robb
Rebuilt in 1979 by Robyn and Michael Barrand as Bowden’s Point Restaurant famous for its lake Colac eel tarts, Birregurra oysters and dessert trolley, followed briefly by Jorandah’s and then the famous Nippers’ Restaurant, run by the Cameron family which was a great place for celebrations for one and all. Tragically damaged by fire in 2008, it has stood vacant for over 17 years.
For many, the cost, permits, and endless paperwork proved too great an obstacle. For me, it became a challenge I couldn’t walk away from. My love for Birregurra and belief in this community gave me the determination to see it through.
My vision is to bring this much-loved building back to life as a welcoming, community-minded distillery where people can gather, taste, and enjoy the very best of the Otways. Along the way, countless locals have shared their memories of milkshakes, dinners, and celebrations once held here—and it’s those stories that remind me why this project matters so much.
This has been the greatest challenge of my life, and I’m so grateful for the support I’ve received. If it were easy, everyone would do it—but as I’ve learned time and again, the very best things in life truly do take time.
With thanks and good spirit,
Cheers Sal