Neal Cameron, The Australian Brewery’s head brewer will take the position of chief judge for the Royal Agricultural Society of NSW (RAS) 2013 Sydney Royal Beer & Cider Show.
Beer has been part of the Summer Fine Food Show since the Sydney Royal Beer Competition was established in 2007; however 2013 will mark the first time in the competition’s history that it will be a standalone event due to its increasing popularity.
Cameron who is a regular beer and cider judge, tasting panellist for Beer and Brewer Magazine and Treasurer of Cider Australia, will bring considerable industry experience to the role.
Cameron says that he is ‘extremely excited’ to be involved in the 2013 judging panel.
“Sydney Royal has unquestionably set a high standard in both judging and benchmarking over the years. It is extremely exciting to be involved, and not a little intimidating to be asked to carry on this tradition,” said Cameron.
“Australia is going through an unprecedented cider boom currently, with over 100 producers now creating products for the domestic market. It will be fantastic to have the opportunity to support these producers with the inclusion of cider into the awards for the first time.”
Classes to be judged at the show include Lagers, Dark Lagers, Pale and Golden Ales, Amber and Dark Ales, Stouts and Porters, Wheat Beers, Strong Beers, Reduced Alcohol Beer, Cider, Perry and Speciality Beer.