The Welder’s Dog has taken home a Champion Award from the 2026 Sydney Royal Beer & Cider Show for its Piney Pale Ale.
The annual competition, run by the Royal Agricultural Society of NSW, brings together beers and ciders from producers across Australia for blind judging based on quality, flavour and brewing craftsmanship.
The award provides national recognition for the Armidale brewery and its Piney Pale Ale.
Head brewer Patrick Bolton said the result was a major achievement for the team.
“We always knew Piney was a legend around town, but having a room full of world-class beer judges agree? That’s bloody brilliant,” said Patrick Bolton, Head Brewer at The Welder’s Dog.
“Brewing in Armidale brings its own unique character, and we’ve poured so much love into perfecting this drop. Getting a Champion Award at Sydney Royal tells us we’re doing something really special up here in Armidale.”
General manager Jono Shumack said Bolton had played an important role in refining the brewery’s products since joining as head brewer in May.
“We really must say since Patty (Patrick Bolton) joined us in May as our Head Brewer he has put a lot of love into refining our products especially the Piney Pale Ale to bring it to a level we are even more proud of,” said Shumack.
Director Tom Croft said the award was also recognition for the Armidale community, which has supported the brewery.
“This isn’t just a win for our team in The Welder’s Dog it’s a win for all of Armidale,” said Tom Croft, Director of The Welder’s Dog.” said Croft.
“Our community has backed us through every batch, every pint, and every story told across the bar. To represent our hometown on a National level and prove that world-class beer is made right here in our backyard makes us ridiculously proud. Everyone in Armidale should pop a tin of Piney this weekend, you helped brew this success!”
The Welder’s Dog operates Little Dog Bar on Marsh Street and Big Dog Brewery on Beardy Street in Armidale.
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