Our Story

Our story of begins in the charming town of Bridgetown, where Pat Corrigan bought a piece of land that used to be an old orchard. Originally, Pat just wanted to make cider for himself and fresh apple juice for his family. But as time passed, his friend and business partner Peter Vowles became intrigued, and together with their mate John Lucey, they turned this hobby into something bigger. This partnership led to the birth of Blackwood Valley Brewing Company, and before long, they had transformed their builder’s yard into what we now know as The Cidery.

In 2000, The Cidery officially opened its doors on St. Patrick’s Day, paying tribute to the apple-growing heritage of Bridgetown. Peter personally crafted many of the building’s elements, including the iconic hand-made jarrah bar, giving the venue a rustic charm that immediately connected with the local community. From the start, it wasn’t just about cider—it was about the people, the place, and the passion for creating something unique.

A couple of years later, Peter ventured into brewing beer, adding another layer to The Cidery’s offerings, while Pat remained the creative force behind cider production. Their small operation quickly grew, and in 2004, Mark Hollett took over as head brewer, continuing to elevate the quality of their beers while overseeing cider production.

In 2020, a new chapter began with the creation of Blackwood Valley Distillery, founded by Peter and his son-in-law, David Christie. Together, they craft award-winning gins and liqueurs, further expanding the beverage lineup.

The Cidery has seen many faces—both staff and customers—come and go. Yet, it has always remained a community hub where people gather to relax and enjoy drinks with friends and family.

As the years have passed, some of the founders have already stepped back, while others are preparing to join them for a well-earned rest in the beer garden. The next generation is stepping up to take the reins, ensuring that The Cidery’s tradition of craftsmanship and community continues to thrive. With family still at its heart, the legacy is in good hands as The Cidery looks forward to the next 25 years and beyond.