Max Hämmerle’s journey from Germany to Australia has established him as a pivotal figure in the Australian craft brewing community. Since relocating in 2017, he has taken on the role of Head Brewer at the Sydney-based Philter Brewery, contributing to the nation’s vibrant beer culture.
Hämmerle’s passion for brewing dates back to 2007 when he began an apprenticeship at Allgäuer Brauhaus Marktoberdorf in Bavaria, Germany. Reflecting on his decision, he said, “I wanted to pursue a trade that not everyone does, and since I loved beer from an early age – beer is legal from 16 in Germany – I thought this would be the perfect fit for me.”
As his career progressed in Germany, Hämmerle expanded his expertise at Riedenburger Brauhaus and pursued a Bachelor of Engineering in Brewing and Beverage Technology at the prestigious University of Weihenstephan in Munich.
His academic background proved invaluable. “If I hadn’t chosen to study brewing, I wouldn’t have ended up living and brewing in Australia, which has been the biggest benefit of my education,” he shared. The program, which also covered areas like winemaking, distilling, and microbiology, broadened his skills and opened up diverse career opportunities, although Hämmerle remains firmly focused on brewing beer.
In 2017, seeking new challenges, Hämmerle moved to Australia and began working at The Australian Brewery. By 2021, he joined the team at Philter Brewery, where his contributions have continued to shape the local beer scene.
“Moving to Australia was definitely a career highlight,” he said. “Every week here feels like a new highlight as you get to see, smell, taste, and enjoy your own product.”
One aspect of the Australian craft beer scene that particularly resonates with Hämmerle is the camaraderie among brewers. “The brewing community here is amazing. We support each other, inspire one another, and collaborate, even if indirectly, through the beers we create,” he explained.
Creativity has flourished for Hämmerle in Australia, where he feels less restricted than in Germany. “In comparison to Germany, where the Reinheitsgebot (Purity Law) imposes certain limitations on ingredients, brewing in Australia offers more freedom and creativity with beer styles. While Germany’s Purity Law has evolved, enabling great craft beers, the Australian scene is more relaxed and much less traditional, making it more fun.”
Hämmerle’s creativity, combined with his collaborative spirit, has become a hallmark of his brewing philosophy. “I’ve always considered myself a creative person when it comes to brewing,” he said. “I also pride myself on being a team player, ensuring that everyone enjoys the brewing process and continues learning.”
Now settled at Philter Brewery, Hämmerle is committed to developing his skills further and expanding his role within the company. “I hope to stay at Philter for as long as possible and learn about the business side of brewing, so I can gain a holistic understanding of how the company operates,” he said.
With 18 years of industry experience, Hämmerle is a passionate advocate for brewing as a fulfilling career. “If you’re unsure about your career path, I’d encourage you to explore brewing, especially within the craft beer community. While it’s smaller compared to industrial brewing, it offers vast learning opportunities, creativity, and a chance to connect with industry professionals.”
Hämmerle’s career exemplifies the excitement and potential within the craft brewing industry, both in Australia and globally, and his journey continues to inspire aspiring brewers.
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