Beer lovers solidarity session for Christchurch

David Cryer, chairman of the NZ Brewers Guild, and generally great guy, is coordinating a series of charity auctions/raffles and drinks around the country designed to raise money for, and show solidarity with our friends in Christchurch.

These are hapening THIS FRIDAY, March 4th, from 5pm.

As you can imagine, being pulled together in rather a hurry, there's not too much involved, but each of the gatherings will share a few goals. Firstly, we will get together around 5ish after work to share a few drinks in excellent company. Some of the bars are attempting to source donated beer, so some profits from sales will go to Red Cross efforts in Christchurch. Secondly, at 7pm, we will all observe a minutes silence for those lost and suffering in the Garden City, followed by a toast to them. Finally, we will hold a charity auction or raffle depending on venue.

David and the Guild have generously provided two tickets to each of three special Beervana events - A Beervana session, The Beer vs Wine Dinner, and the Awards Gala Dinner. All proceeds from the auction or raffle will also go to the Red Cross appeal.

Auckland, Manager Martin Bridges – Andrew Andrew, 201 Quay St, Viaduct from 5pm on, raffles begin 7pm www.viewauckland.co.nz/pubsandbars/andrew-andrew-info-66530.html

Hamilton, Manager  Greig McGill - House on Hood, 27 Hood St, Hamilton  from 5pm on, raffles begin 7pm www.houseonhood.co.nz

Wellington, Manager Kieran Haslett-Moore – Bar Edward, 167 Riddiford Street, from 5pm on, raffles begin 7pm www.baredward.co.nz

Nelson, Manager Mic Dover – The Freehouse, 95 Collingwood St, Nelson, details to follow or ask Mic www.thefreehouse.co.nz

Dunedin, Manager Bob King – The team at Emerson are organising something right now we will have a venue tomorrow at latest same format as above is expected.

Blenheim, Manager Geoff Griggs - The Old Bank, 81 Cleghorn Street, Blenheim, from 6pm coordinated by Geoff.

David Cryer sends the following message:

"I think it is important for our group to gather and express their grief and feelings for the people of Canterbury and our brewing friends. It is not a competition to see who can raise the most funds but a chance for our members to gather and do some good for themselves and Christchurch.

It is very important that people do not feel excluded from this, so if any bar or venue anywhere in the country wants to join in they are to proceed with our blessing. Our means the brewing community ie SOBA, BGNZ, Beer Lovers, Brewers anyone connected to our industry in any country."

The more people along to these events, the more money we will raise, so invite all friends and family. Here's to a great night, for a great cause.

Cheers,

Greig McGill