We’re delighted to report back from another outstanding gathering at the Produced in Nillumbik: Great Distilling & Circular Economy event, held on Thursday, 16 October at Rivers of Yarrambat in the beautiful Nillumbik region – a warm thank-you to all who joined us for an afternoon of innovation, inspiration and community celebration.

A big shout-out to our exceptional distiller exhibitors: Naught Distilling, Hillmartin Distillery, and Imbue Distillery, whose craft, passion, and local spirit really anchored the event. Not only did they bring their award-winning products and hospitality, but they also generously donated a door prize for attendees. Thank you for going above and beyond: your contribution added a wonderful extra dimension of excitement, and thanks for supporting the community connection we were aiming for. Guests also had the opportunity to sample, ask questions, meet the makers and chat about distilling techniques, ingredient sourcing, flavour profiles and the vision behind each small-batch spirit. The authenticity of the distillers shone through from their storytelling to their generosity in explaining their craft and in sharing their passion for the region and its produce.

We were honoured to welcome Reground’s very own Annaliese, a sustainability and circular-economy expert whose dedication and insights resonated deeply with our audience. Reground is a Melbourne-based social enterprise that turns what many regard as “waste” into valuable local resources by collecting used coffee grounds, chaff, and soft plastics, and diverting them from landfill.

Annaliese’s presentation offered fresh ways to think about resource-looping, waste-avoidance and business practices that both serve the bottom line and the planet.

The panel discussion that followed, featuring the distillers themselves alongside sustainability practitioners, sparked thoughtful dialogue. Topics included sourcing local raw materials, minimising waste in production, packaging innovations, opportunities and challenges of circular practices, and how distillers can position themselves not just as producers of spirits but as stewards of the region, environment and community. Attendees stepped in with questions, and the collective energy was one of curiosity, openness and optimism.

Refreshments and food from local producers set the tone not just as a tasting experience but as a genuine demonstration of what the “Produced in Nillumbik” ethos stands for: craft, locality, quality and sustainability.

Once again, heartfelt thanks to all the distillers, our keynote speaker, the venue and everyone who joined us. Your participation made the day a milestone for the region’s food, beverage and sustainability sectors. We look forward to building on this momentum together.

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