The following article was produced in partnership with Great Northern Brewing Co.

Like far too many British ex-pats, I’m ashamed to say that since my arrival in the Lucky Country almost two years hence, the full extent of my explorations inland can be contained to a one-day round trip to the Blue Mountains, packed like a sardine into a bus alongside a veritable United Nations of tourist, all as inexperienced as myself. 

Finding myself largely trapped by the inexorable draw of the Eastern suburbs, it’s safe to say that I haven’t done anywhere near the amount of domestic travel that this great nation deserves. Riddled with guilt, it felt like a perfectly timed moment of salvation when an invitation to Longreach — the glittering jewel of Queensland’s iconic outback — landed on my desk. But what was going on all the way out there? And why did they need a humble and thoroughly un-Australian writer such as myself to attend? 

Last week, I was lucky enough to find out: Long Run, a brand-new premium crisp lager, was officially launched, bringing with it a celebration of regional pride and the rich heritage of the Aussie Outback. Brought to life by the renowned Great Northern Brewing Co., the brand claims that Long Run embodies the beauty and boldness of Australia’s vast outdoors, capturing the essence of the sunburnt land in every drop. On tasting, it was hard to disagree: brewed with 100% Australian barley, Long Run delivers a rich, clean, and crisp taste with an oh-so-perfect 4.5% ABV, perfect for toasting life’s special moments.

The launch took place in the town of Longreach; located bang smack in the middle of the Sunshine State, the location was chosen for its deep historical roots and connection to the Outback. Playing host to an event that was as much a celebration of community and tradition as it was about unveiling this new brew, it was the stone-block Bruce Yeates Memorial Cottage — built by RM Williams and named after the first chairman of Longreach’s Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame — that served as the venue. It was here that publishers, tastemakers, VIPs, and celebrities alike gathered to raise their glasses to Long Run.

The evening was a front-to-back showcase of Outback life, with fire pits and cattle dogs. However, without a shadow of a doubt, it was the one-of-a-kind whip-cracking performance that provided a veritable cherry on top of the evening.

The event also featured the unveiling of a custom mural by Queensland artist Jarad Danby in Longreach’s bustling Swan Street. The artwork — which will be a permanent fixture in the town centre — depicts the key features of Longreach and amplifies the story of Long Run, tying the beer to the heart of the community. Town mascot ‘Ollie’, a two-tonne cow carrying its Long-Run-sipping owner atop his back, made for a majestic sight as he stood in front of the newly unveiled artwork. 

Given that this writer is more accustomed to the bustling restaurants of Sydney’s CBD, you’ll be unsurprised to hear that my personal highlight of the day was the feast laid on for us after the aforementioned entertainment.

A collaboration between some of Australia’s top chef — Hugh Allen and Chris Marshall of Vue de Monde, John Demetrios of Omnia, and Sam Homan of Yugen Dining — who brought their culinary expertise to Longreach, the clan prepared a special menu that showcased local ingredients, including signature creations like Vue de Monde’s renowned damper or Yugen’s bon-bons filled with Long Run caramel and lemon myrtle brown butter. These culinary delights, paired with ice-cold Long Run, underscored both the brand’s commitment to quality in everything it does as well as its connection to regional Queensland.

As part of Long Run’s local initiatives, these chefs will also participate in a month-long culinary mentorship program in Longreach, leading training workshops for aspiring local chefs, sharing their knowledge and experiences to help these up-and-coming talents develop the skills necessary for a successful career in hospitality. Speaking to Verity Jackson, Long Run’s Marketing Manager, she said this about the event and surrounding initiatives: 

“The Long Run launch was a unique night that showed guests the beauty and traditions of the Australian Outback, where deep bonds are forged and amazing things are achieved… there is no better place to celebrate this than in Longreach. With a satisfying crisp finish, Long Run is for beer lovers who know getting things done can take time – but in the long run, it’s worth the effort.”

Bright golden in colour, with a subtle tropical hop and citrus aroma, Long Run carries lightly onto the palate before ending with a delicate malt sweetness. Available exclusively in Queensland, Long Run is sold in striking gold and burgundy bottles at select pubs, clubs, and bottle shops. It marks a bold new chapter for Australia’s favourite beer brand, and this pale-skinned Pomme felt very lucky to have been there for its show-stopping debut.