Founder & Publisher

Matt Kirkegaard

A trained journalist with almost two decades writing about beer and the brewing industry, Matt is one of the most experienced beer writers and commentators in the country. Known for his independence and robust, honest coverage, Matt’s writing has been some of the most thought-provoking and influential in the industry. He is regularly sought out by mainstream media for commentary on the latest trends and industry issues.

In 2014 Matt was the inaugural winner of the Media Award at the Australian International Beer Awards, and in 2017 was also recognised for his services to the Queensland brewing industry with a Special Achievement Award.

When he’s not writing about the industry Matt loves to share his passion for beer & take beer to new audiences through his tastings and events business BeerMatt.

Client Relationship Manager

Sam Heathwood

Sam kicked off his beer career with an internship at a Qld brewery whilst completing his business degree. The internship quickly turned into permanent employment where Sam headed up marketing whilst learning the ins and outs of the craft beer and brewing worlds.

With a solid understanding of the industry under his belt, Sam joined Brews News in 2019.

Outside of work, Sam lives on the southern Gold Coast, frequenting beaches and surf clubs and sampling brews with his Labradoodle Woodi.

Business Advisor (Part Time)

Sabrina Kunz

Sabrina originally joined Brews News in 2022 as its General Manager. After over a year of implementing change - Sabrina stepped back to a part time role in August 2023. You can hear her voice as a contributor on the Brews News Week podcast.

Prior to joining Brews News Sabrina consulted for the brewing industry in Australia and New Zealand. She was the Executive Director of the Brewers Guild of New Zealand from 2018 - 2021. Sabrina also currently works part-time with the Independent Brewers Association supporting key project outcomes.

Originally a lawyer, Sabrina has worked in a variety of roles in government and is a qualified corporate director having served on Not-for-Profit and commercial boards.

Sabrina calls Brisbane home and lives with her son and two cats. She does not have tik-tok and is looking forward to the rise of malt-driven beers.

Journalism Intern

Jess Laven

Jess is a university student who is studying for a Bachelor of Communication and Bachelor of Journalism dual degree at The University of Queensland, majoring in Public Relations.

Based in regional Queensland, she joined Brews News in December 2022 as a journalism intern. She works as a communications freelancer and English tutor and loves reading novels and writing anything and everything.