After careers in the corporate world, Gary and Ursula Wilby realised their dream of opening a brewery on the North Coast.

The couple were at a point in their respective careers where they were looking for a change of pace, and the opportunity to invest in a brewery came up. 

After their first plan, to start a brewery in an old railway station in Botha’s Hill, fell through they started up in Canton Business Park, Shaka’s Head.

The company was also rebranded from the Great Railroad Brewing Company to the Ballito Brewing Company to reflect their new home.

“I lived in Ballito for 3 years during the 90s and it felt sort of like a second home to me, so the move felt natural,” said Gary.

Gary, an analytical chemist by profession, looks after the brewing, and Ursula looks after everything else. 

The entire process, from brewing to bottling, is done at Shaka’s Head.

“Once you know what you are doing, brewing is not that difficult. You just need to keep an eye on the temperature so that fermentation happens at the rate you want it to,” he said.

At a time where most businesses were struggling during the coronavirus lockdown, the fear of no alcohol meant support for the brewery was at an all time high.

“No one could prepare for the first lockdown because it was so sudden, but when rumours of the second lockdown started, we sold every last drop in the brewery,” said Gary.

Aside from the 8 beers that the Ballito Brewing Company produces, they have also expanded into making craft gin.

New flavours are common as Gary continues to experiment, and you can find anything from grapefruit to coconut being included.

“We are constantly trying to add to our offering and learn at the same time. We hear rum might be the next big thing so be sure to watch this space.”

The brewery offers guided tours and tastings with Gary. Booking is essential. 

Visit ballitobrewingcompany.co.za for more details.