Distillers on a musical mission

KILDERKIN Distillery owners Rebecca Matthews and Chris Pratt are on a mission to transform the location into a folk music venue.

After being named best small business at the Scottish Network for Business and Culture Victoria Awards last year, and hosting performances by Khristian Mizzi, Shona Williams and Phil Lester, the pair plan to continue showcasing folk music.

Ms Matthews said in the current economic climate, it is important for venues to offer experiences such as performances.

Kilderkin Distillery also offers a gin-making school and high tea experience.

“I think it’s important for venues to be looking to offer something a bit unique and different to get people to venues,” Ms Matthews said.

Ms Matthews and Mr Pratt are currently in talks with artists about performing at the distillery next year, and Ms Matthews said it is critical they are paid well for their work.

“For us it’s really important that the musicians get paid accordingly,” she said.

“They are actually making the effort to come out and share their art with people and we’ve invited them, and then hopefully if we can make a bit over that it’s a bonus for us.”

Although the business receives support from government and Tourism Midwest Victoria, Mr Pratt said he would like to see grants on offer to host artists.

“The folk scene in Ballarat has dropped off and we are working hard to rebuild it,” he said.

“By providing live music in venues and supporting it, you’re actually addressing two challenges in the current economy.

“One’s hospitality where numbers have been down and also a lack of predictability from day to day… and also live music which has certainly suffered terribly.”

To find out more information about Kilderkin Distillery, visit their website.