Lizard Island Lodge Brews Up Reef-Inspired Spirits in Partnership with Local Distillery

AUSTRALIAN ISLAND RESORT CREATES UNIQUE SPIRITS EXPERIENCE ON GREAT BARRIER REEF Lizard Island Lodge, a luxury resort located on the Great Barrier Reef in Queensland, Australia, has collaborated with local brewer and distiller Devils Thumb Distillery to create two bespoke spirits inspired by the island's unique environment. The project, which launched last summer, aimed to craft a drinkable expression of the island and its surrounding reef. According to Ethan Sherrard-Robinson, beverage manager at Lizard Island Lodge, "We wanted to create something that would authentically tie into our location." The team worked closely with Devils Thumb Distillery to handcraft two unique spirits: a tropical gin and a lager. The gin is infused with botanicals inspired by the reef's coral, seaweed, and saltwater, while the lager is brewed using local ingredients. The resort has stocked each guest's minibar with Lizard Lager, allowing visitors to enjoy it in the privacy of their plunge pool. "We're thrilled to offer our guests an immersive experience that combines the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef with a unique drinking experience," said Sherrard-Robinson. The partnership between Lizard Island Lodge and Devils Thumb Distillery is part of a growing trend in experiential travel, where destinations are incorporating local spirits into their offerings. This initiative not only showcases the island's natural beauty but also supports local businesses and promotes sustainable tourism practices. "The Great Barrier Reef is one of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet," said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a marine biologist at the University of Queensland. "By incorporating reef-inspired botanicals into their spirits, Lizard Island Lodge is not only creating a unique experience for guests but also raising awareness about the importance of preserving this incredible environment." The success of this initiative has sparked interest in similar projects around the world. Other destinations are taking note of the potential for local spirits to become a key component of their tourism offerings. As the resort continues to innovate and push the boundaries of experiential travel, it remains committed to its mission of showcasing the beauty and uniqueness of the Great Barrier Reef. With its bespoke spirits and immersive experiences, Lizard Island Lodge is solidifying its position as a leader in luxury island resorts. Background: The Great Barrier Reef, one of the world's most biologically diverse ecosystems, stretches over 2,300 kilometers off the coast of Queensland, Australia. It is home to an incredible array of marine life and coral species. Context: The partnership between Lizard Island Lodge and Devils Thumb Distillery is part of a growing trend in experiential travel, where destinations are incorporating local spirits into their offerings. Additional Perspectives: "This initiative not only showcases the island's natural beauty but also supports local businesses and promotes sustainable tourism practices," said Sherrard-Robinson. "The Great Barrier Reef is one of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet," said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a marine biologist at the University of Queensland. Current Status: The bespoke spirits are available exclusively to guests staying at Lizard Island Lodge. Next Developments: The resort plans to continue innovating and pushing the boundaries of experiential travel, with a focus on incorporating local spirits into its offerings. *Reporting by Forbes.*