Novotel Geelong is raising a toast to local flavour with the launch of its own locally-made custom beer and cider, crafted in collaboration with independent brewer Bells Beach Brewing.
In a first-of-its-kind partnership between a Geelong hotel and the local brewery, the two brands have co-created Novotel Super Crisp, a session ale, and Novotel Apple Cider, a dry, thirst-quenching cider – both of which are now served exclusively across the waterfront hotel’s restaurant, bar, mini bars, and event offerings.
“This is about creating something truly local – a product that not only celebrates our location but also enhances the guest experience in a way that’s uniquely Novotel Geelong,” said Novotel Geelong Food & Beverage Director, Jake Shelberg. “It’s also a great way for us to support and champion a passionate local producer doing exceptional things in the independently-owned Australian brewery space.”
The partnership evolved from an introduction by Steve Oakley, COO of ERDI, the hotel’s parent company, and was brought to life by Jake. What began with showcasing Bells Beach Brewing offerings in the hotel’s Tempo Bar has grown into a signature collaboration.
The two new beverages are:
- Novotel Super Crisp (3.0% ABV) – A low-alcohol session ale brewed with Magnum and Wai-iti hops for a clean bitterness, balanced by a gentle melon aroma.
- Novotel Apple Cider (5.5% ABV) – A dry-style cider crafted from Pink Lady and Granny Smith apple juice sourced from Victoria’s Central Highlands.
Each comes in custom-designed cans inspired by the sweeping bay views from Novotel Geelong’s seventh-floor guestroom balconies – a visual expression of the coastal lifestyle that defines the guest experience.
For Bells Beach Brewing, the collaboration is a chance to showcase their product in a new light and connect with a wider audience of locals, leisure travellers, and corporate guests.
“We’re incredibly proud to partner with Novotel Geelong on this project – marking our first-ever collaboration with a hotel,” said Bells Beach Brewing Brand Ambassador, Doug Savige. “It’s a fantastic way to bring together two brands that share a passion for quality, community and the local lifestyle. The team at Novotel really embraced the process, from the brewing to the branding, and it’s exciting to see the final products out in the world.”
Earlier this year, the Novotel team joined the brewers at Bells Beach Brewing for a collaborative brew day, a hands-on immersion that deepened the connection between both teams.
The partnership reflects Novotel’s broader commitment to enhancing the guest experience through local collaborations that foster community ties and support regional producers. It is part of a growing movement across Novotel properties globally to bring balance to people and planet – from thoughtful food and beverage to wellbeing and environmental initiatives.
Now flowing throughout the hotel, the exclusive beer and cider mark a vibrant new chapter for Novotel Geelong – one where guests can connect more deeply with the destination and enjoy a refreshingly local taste.
