The Old Clarence Brewery, 1881
History
Built in 1881 by entrepreneurial brothers John and Donald McAulay, The Clarence Brewery was once a thriving business, specialising in the production of local delights such as ‘Bulldog Beer’ and ‘Red Crab Stout’. Yet sadly, The Brewery faced challenges over the years and struggled to survive, despite the beer being well-received by NSW hotels. The business changed hands several times, and it appears that sourcing ingredients posed a problem. In 1885, the local newspaper reported, ‘Competent judges now speak favourably of the beer...freely bought up by hotelkeepers of the Clarence and Richmond and quantities forwarded to Sydney. Sugar in large crystals is used and cannot be obtained locally, somewhat remarkable in a sugar producing district. The present proprietors deserve credit for their perseverance.’
Brewing operations ceased in 1902, and by 1915, The Brewery had been converted into a dual residence, separated by a central arched entryway. For a time, it also operated as a boarding house. In the late 1970s, the building changed hands, and was completely restored from foundations to the roof. Soon after, it was listed with the National Trust for its heritage beauty and important value to local history.
In 2022, ceramic artist Romy Bennie and her partner Brad became its current custodians. They invite you to return to a bygone era, and experience the unique charm of this remarkable building with original features throughout. The arched entryway is still intact and a reminder of the building’s purpose - transporting barrels and casks by horse & cart to the rear stables.
Other heritage features include the original timber floors and ornate timber staircase, rustic stone & brick walls, full-length verandahs, high ceilings, stone fireplace surrounds, and cast-iron lacework. Underneath is a wine cellar with trap door access, and eight cellars running the length of the entire building - all closed off for now, but perhaps a project for the future!
Accommodation
The Old Clarence Brewery is fully self-contained, and exclusively all yours to enjoy when you book. On the spacious ground floor, there is a lounge room to relax in with heavy linen furnishings and rustic wooden furniture, along with modern comforts like complimentary WiFi and 65 inch Smart TV. Watch a movie, or switch off from technology and play one of the board games available. The formal dining room, with antique farmhouse table and fireplace surround is a beautiful place to dine by candlelight, and also as an inspirational writing room.
Also on the ground level is the main bathroom, utilities room, and a charming country kitchen with exposed sandstone walls, the old fireplace surround, handcrafted timber benchtops, and restored ‘Early Kooka’ gas stove that will take you back in time. There is also a handmade Moccamaster filter coffee machine for your morning brew, along with fresh milk, tea, coffee, and shortbread.
Sleeping up to 8 guests, with children 12 years and older welcome, upstairs are four spacious bedrooms - two queen, one double bed, and one with twin king single beds. Each bedroom has been simply furnished, with handpicked antique and vintage pieces that reflect The Brewery’s historical era. Coupled with high ceilings, a neutral palette, soft warm lighting, and hardwood floors, each room has an airy and relaxed feel, creating a sense of calm.
The main bedroom also has a walk-in robe, and in the ensuite, take a long soak in the clawfoot bath set against textured limewashed walls. All beds are dressed in soft stonewashed white cotton sheets for a blissful night’s sleep, and bathrooms feature luxurious Bemboka extra large bath towels and Australian botanical Leif amenities.
Outside, immerse yourself in the peaceful tranquility of the English-style cottage garden, with established citrus, fig, and avocado trees - and help yourself to the herb garden. Enjoy evening drinks or breakfast each morning in the shaded alfresco dining area, or sitting out on the verandahs. And spend a lazy afternoon or two on the day bed under the Poinciana, or sunny picnic under the mulberry tree, enjoying its fruits in the warmer months.
“A unique heritage experience. Could have stayed for weeks! Very comfortable beds, and the garden is beautiful! Would stay again.”
Special Features
Full Kitchen
WiFi
Heritage Listed
Antique Decor
Things To Do
Maclean is the perfect stopover for travellers en route between Brisbane and Sydney, and an ideal holiday destination. The Old Clarence Brewery sits in the heart this quaint little town, situated an hour south of Ballina, and two hours south of the Gold Coast. Maclean (pronounced ‘Muh-klain’) proudly celebrates its links to Scotland, and for over a century, the town has hosted a Highland Gathering festival during Easter.
Located in a quiet street, it’s an easy stroll from your accommodation to Maclean’s historical museum, and main street with shops, supermarket, cafes, galleries, and the Clarence River - perfect if you enjoy fishing - or simply relax by the riverbank and soak in the tranquil atmosphere. And for breathtaking views, visit Maclean Lookout, located on a hill behind the town, for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, river, and the coastline.
Nearby, take a day trip to Yuraygir National Park or Bundjalung National Park and explore their walking trails. Head to the nearby town of Ulmurra for antique shopping, and enjoy a long lunch at the pub by the river. A short drive will see you in Yamba on the coast - spend the day at the main beach and ocean pool, or hire a BBQ boat on high tide in Yamba, and float up the Clarence River. Swim in the iconic Angourie blue and green freshwater pools, take the headland walk and lose track of time searching for sea creatures in the rock pools.
There’s plenty of excellent choices for dining out in the area. In Maclean, Botero does great coffee, and head to Sushi Wallabian for fabulous Japanese food. In Yamba, dine at Gather, Beachwood Cafe, and Sanctus Brewery, and enjoy great cocktails at Clarence Distillery.
