The summer of light: why Aussies are reaching for lower-ABV beers

As the weather warms up, one thing is clear – Australians are drinking lighter. Sessionable, low-alcohol beers are leading the charge this summer, as drinkers reach for flavour that lasts longer than the buzz. Across the country, breweries are taking on the challenge of brewing lighter beers that don’t skimp on character.  It’s a shift that’s reshaping the local beer scene – and one Philter Brewing has leaned into with its new XPA Lite (2.1% ABV) and Philter Pale Ale (4.8% ABV). We spoke to co-founders Mick Neil and Stef Constantoulas to dig a little deeper into the launch and broader trend. “Aussie drinkers are still going for the easy-drinking classics like those pales, XPAs and lagers, and craft brewers are meeting that demand by delivering fresh modern takes on those traditional styles,” he shares. “Lighter styles will dominate going into summer: hot weather plus refreshment is a reliable formula.” The lighter side of flavour Light beer once had a reputation problem – now, it’s a badge of craft. Brewers are investing in technique, ingredients and R&D to prove that flavour needn’t fade with lower alcohol percentages. “In the past, if a beer was lower in alcohol or light, that meant it was bland. What is driving the category now is that craft brewers are doing amazing work to make sure we can brew light beer without sacrificing that full flavour, so that stigma is no longer,” Constantoulas says.  “We took the time to make sure our XPA Lite is as close as possible to our OG XPA. It really is everything you’d want in an XPA, just lite.” Neil adds that flavour has remained the one true non-negotiable. “It’s fair to say there is a lot of research and development that goes into all of our final products, of course and there was a huge amount of preparation put into our XPA Lite. Flavour was our top priority, so we didn’t stop until it was perfect.” Mindful drinking meets mindful brewing Beyond the ABV conversation, value and sustainability are shaping what Aussies are buying. “The occasions at which Aussies drink haven’t changed and we still love beer on a hot day, so summer is obviously a big season for brewers,” Constantoulas says.  “I do think there has been a shift in the value proposition; drinkers are looking for value, so price is a bigger factor than it has been in the past.” At the same time, breweries are doubling down on conscious production – solar-powered operations, recycled packaging and reusable kegs are becoming the new industry norm.  “Sustainability in our operations is a focus for us and we are proud of the fact that the production of 35% of our beer is powered by the sun,” Neil says.  “We utilise fully 100% recycled cardboard that can be fully recycled again and use reusable keg fleets through companies like Kegstar, meaning that the kegs are reused for years.” As easy-drinking beers take over fridges and festivals, the message is simple: Aussie drinkers aren’t losing their love for beer – they’re just choosing to enjoy it a little smarter. Find more food and drink features on Crumb Wire.

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Chef Profile: LK Hospitality’s Luke Headon on bringing farm-born respect for produce to fine dining

LK Hospitality Group Executive Chef Luke Headon grew up in Ballina, where curiosity about food and produce came long before a passion for the culinary arts. In this Crumb Wire profile, he reflects on the influence of great producers, lessons learned across Michelin-starred restaurants and the pursuit of balance beyond the kitchen. What first sparked your love for food, and how did you get your start in the industry? I grew up on a large farm, so a connection to produce was instilled in me from an early age. I was always curious about how the whole system worked – from growing ingredients to understanding what makes food truly delicious.  The cooking side came a little later, during my teenage years, when I became captivated by the energy and drama of a busy kitchen and the satisfaction of making great food. What’s been your journey so far – from your first job to where you are now? I began my career washing dishes at a local motel restaurant in Ballina, before completing my apprenticeship around Byron Bay. After finishing my formal training, I spent two years in Melbourne, gaining a taste for fine dining before moving to the UK. Over the next decade, I worked in several Michelin-starred restaurants, including The Fat Duck, Marcus Wareing, and Restaurant Story. Returning to Australia in 2018, I spent time in Yarra Valley overseeing kitchens at Levantine Hill before opening Society Restaurant and Lillian Brasserie in Melbourne’s CBD. I’ve now been Group Executive Chef for LK Hospitality for the past 12 months. What have been some of your greatest achievements and challenges along the way? I’ve been fortunate to work alongside some incredible teams over the years and to share in moments of critical acclaim. But what I value most is seeing growth and development within my teams – helping someone become a better chef or leader feels like a truly meaningful achievement. As for challenges, this industry is full of them. It’s easy to mention the obvious ones – COVID, staffing shortages, or the intensity of London kitchens – but they’re all part of the journey. Finding balance between work and life has always been difficult; high-end kitchens can be all-consuming. I’ve become a little wiser about it over time, though it’s definitely still a work in progress. Outside your property/properties, what are your current favourite food joints? I recently had a great meal at Zareh in Collingwood – Tom is cooking with so much flavour, and the whole place just screams his personality and hospitality.  I’ve also been back to Suupa many times for their egg katsu sando. I just love how complete the brand is from start to finish. Which chefs and cuisines inspire you most – past or present? I’d describe myself as a produce-led cook. While there are plenty of chefs I admire, I get just as much inspiration from talking with great producers – fishermen, growers, and people like Oliver at Ramarro Farm who are constantly experimenting with new varieties. They’re the real heroes. If I had to name someone, I’d say Eric and Tina Kragh Vildgaard who run Restaurant Jordnaer in Denmark.  How do you think Australia’s food culture has evolved in recent years? I’m not sure Australia’s food culture is fully defined yet as it is still evolving, but dining habits have definitely shifted. Guests increasingly want to steer their own experiences rather than follow a set menu. Like it or not, red meat is back in a big way, and we’ve just gone through a “bigger is better” phase. But, like fashion, what’s out of style now will cycle back before long. Any exciting food trends you’ve tried at home – or snuck onto the menu? To be honest, my home cooking is pretty minimal. Professionally, I might be guilty of finding a home for caviar on almost any dish or menu. It really took off after COVID and people just can’t seem to get enough of it. And finally, what do you love doing when you’re not in the kitchen/at the venue? I like to get outside – in the garden or out of the city for a walk. Find more food and drink features on Crumb Wire.

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Sydney’s Cruise Bar unveils summer menu, rooftop reopening and New Year’s Eve plans

Summer is in full swing at Sydney’s Cruise Bar and Restaurant, with a new seasonal menu, cocktail list and rooftop reopening adding a fresh energy to Circular Quay’s already popping dining scene. The venue, known for its front-row views of the Opera House, has also unveiled plans for an all-out New Year’s Eve celebration that will take guests from sunset to fireworks. “At Cruise Bar and Restaurant, summer dining meets Sydney’s most iconic view: ferries gliding past the Opera House and light shimmering across the water,” said Head Chef Han Chen, recently named Metropolitan Chef of the Year at the 2025 AHA NSW Awards for Excellence. “When you’re cooking on the harbour, you can’t help but be inspired by it. The ferries moving across Circular Quay, the salt in the air, the light on the water. This menu is about that moment. It’s about celebrating summer the Sydney way.” Serving summer on a plate The updated summer menu celebrates Sydney’s coastal produce and native ingredients, moving from relaxed bar bites to refined seafood and share plates. Dishes include freshly shucked Royal Miyagi oysters with lemon aspen vinaigrette, grilled Skull Island king prawns with confit tomato butter, and pan-seared Humpty Doo barramundi served with bush tomato ragu and crispy saltbush. There are also more casual options such as chicken parmy bites, Vegemite BBQ chicken wings and a kangaroo burger with pickled pear and jalapeño. The signature Grande Cruise Seafood Tower brings it all together with lobster, prawns, scallop ceviche, calamari and flathead. On the drinks front, the new cocktail list captures the brightness of Sydney’s summer afternoons. Standouts include the Waterside Spritz with watermelon, Davidson plum and sparkling wine, the Salty Shores with mandarin, mango sorbet and chilli tequila, and The Calypso, which mixes rum, marmalade and lemongrass. Melba’s Rooftop reopens Upstairs, Melba’s Rooftop has reopened for the season, offering skyline views and open-air dining above the harbour. The rooftop menu combines coastal ingredients with light share plates such as caviar brioche with crème fraîche, prawn cocktail with lobster Marie Rose, and barramundi sliders with bush tomato relish and lemon myrtle mayo. Larger options include charcuterie and cheese boards, truffle fries and cold seafood platters stacked with lobster, oysters and scallop ceviche. Cocktails follow a similar summery brief with drinks like the Perfect Pear made with watermelon and pear cider, and the Rosella Tropic featuring passionfruit and rosella-infused whisky. Cruise Bar and Restaurant will also host one of Sydney’s biggest harbourside New Year’s Eve celebrations, transforming all three levels of the venue into a multi-room event of food, music and fireworks. Levels 1 and 2 will feature DJs including Felixx, Adam Holt and Sydney Bardot, alongside a menu of canapés, live food stations and a late-night hotdog bar. Melba’s Rooftop will offer an elevated experience with additional food stations, as well as Champagne and craft beers, served during a three-hour beverage package. Dishes for the night range from lobster rolls and duck liver macarons to Champagne sabayon oysters and native-spiced lamb croquettes. As midnight approaches, guests can toast with glasses of Veuve Clicquot as fireworks light up the harbour. Tickets for New Year’s Eve start from $179 for Levels 1 and 2, and $459 for the rooftop. Source: Original Spin Find more dining out updates on Crumb Wire.

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Mashd N Kutcher team up with Macca’s for new McHappy Day 2025 anthem

With McHappy Day fast approaching, Australian electronic duo Mashd N Kutcher has released the official anthem for 2025 in partnership with McDonald’s Australia. The new track aims to raise awareness and funds for Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC), which supports families with seriously ill or injured children. The track The song captures the spirit of McHappy Day through Mashd N Kutcher’s genre-blending production, mixing real sounds recorded at Ronald McDonald House South Brisbane with the group’s signature electronic style. The voices of children and families feature throughout the track, from playground laughter and dinner-table chatter to their own reimagined version of the classic “ba da ba ba ba” jingle. Mashd N Kutcher lead Matt James said visiting the House left a lasting impact. “This song means a lot to me. Visiting the team and families at Ronald McDonald House was truly inspiring – their positivity, resilience and the way they support each other is incredible,” he said. “Seeing the kids light up while playing instruments, sharing laughs and even singing the Macca’s jingle was magic. It was a privilege to bring a little fun into their day, and I think that magic shines through in the track. I hope it makes people smile and inspires them to get involved and donate to McHappy Day this Saturday.” Amanda Nakad, Marketing Director of Menu and Brand for McDonald’s Australia, said the initiative reflects what McHappy Day is all about. “McHappy Day is a powerful reminder of the difference we can make when we come together. This year, we wanted to do something bold, fresh and fun – and this track absolutely delivers,” she said. “We’re inviting every Aussie to head into their local Macca’s this Saturday, hear the track, join the fun and buy a Big Mac – all to support a cause that’s so close to our hearts.” The track is available now on Mashd N Kutcher (@mashdnkutcher) and McDonald’s (@mcdonaldsau) social channels and will also play in Macca’s restaurants nationwide on McHappy Day, taking place on November 15. Getting involved Alongside the release, McDonald’s is rolling out a series of fundraising efforts to encourage Australians to get involved. Supporters can purchase Silly Socks featuring heritage characters Grimace and Hamburglar, or grab a McDonaldland bucket hat available in two colours. Helping Hands are also available in-restaurant, allowing customers to donate $2, $10 or $50, while further donations can also be made online. On the day itself, $2 from every Big Mac sold will go directly to RMHC. McHappy Day remains the largest annual fundraiser for RMHC Australia. Since its launch in 1991, the initiative has raised more than $79 million and helped over 69,000 families each year through accommodation, meals and support services. Source: Eleven PR Find more food and drink news on Crumb Wire.

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Spirits & Bites arrives at Manjit’s on Darling Harbour

Spirits & Bites will take over Manjit’s Restaurant on Darling Harbour, from November 14 to 16, with a new, curated exploration of premium spirits and gourmet food in an intimate waterfront setting. Designed as an alternative to large-scale festivals, the event focuses on education and appreciation, catering to both industry buyers and curious drinkers. Each two-hour session will feature more than 70 spirits from 18 Australian and international distillers and distributors. The line-up includes Tasmanian single malts from Lark Distillery, gins from Prohibition Liquor Co. and Ester Spirits, 7000 Island Spirits’ Ube liqueur, Husk Rum, tequila, pisco, grappa and Hugo Vodka paired with a caviar bump. Food will be served throughout the sessions, with canapés such as tempura garlic prawns, lamb kebabs, fresh naan, seafood cocktails, arancini, samosas and prawn toast. Each ticket includes unlimited tastings, food, Long Rays mixers, a tote bag and a branded tasting cup. Bottles will also be available for purchase directly from producers. Tickets are priced at $140 per person for a two-hour session. A limited number of flexible “Choose Your Session” tickets are also available, allowing entry to any session, including sold-out times. Spirits & Bites 2025 will run across six sessions, beginning on Friday, November 14, through to Sunday, November 16. The event will be held at Manjit’s Restaurant, located at 10/49 Lime Street in Barangaroo, Darling Harbour. Entry is limited to guests aged 18 and over, and a valid ticket is required for admission. Source: Original Spin Find more food and drink updates on Crumb Wire.

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The Rusty Rabbit to celebrate 11th Birthday with $11 pancakes across locations

Sydney café The Rusty Rabbit is marking 11 years in business this weekend with $11 pancakes across its Concord, Darlinghurst and North Sydney locations. The offer runs from November 15 to 17. The milestone arrives as Sydney’s café scene continues to lean into nostalgic comfort food, with diners favouring familiar favourites with novel elements. Pancakes – a dish the Rusty Rabbit is known to have mastered the art of – have become a loud symbol of that shift. Founded by brothers Josh and Jamesray Khoury, The Rusty Rabbit began with a single site in Darlinghurst and has since expanded into a small group of venues shaped by playful design and approachable food. The cafés are known for brunch plates that mix classic flavours with a sense of fun, while maintaining the kind of service that keeps locals returning. Their newest location in Concord spans 100 square metres and brings the brand’s signature rabbit motif into a more spacious setting. It even has its own line of merchandise, a nod to the loyal following the brothers have built over the years. Like many operators, the Khourys faced setbacks during COVID-19, closing their short-lived Burwood site as restrictions hit. Concord marked a reset for the business, allowing it to rebuild and reconnect with a community that still rallies behind independent cafés. This weekend’s birthday offer celebrates that comeback with a Sydney brunch staple that continues to endure. Source: Curated Agency Find more food and drink updates on Crumb Wire.

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Coogee Bay Hotel launches Beach Bar & Dining led by ex-Mimi’s chef Justin Schott

Coogee Bay Hotel has opened Beach Bar & Dining, a new restaurant and bar led by Executive Chef Justin Schott (ex-Mimi’s). Set against the backdrop of Coogee Beach, the venue draws on Sydney’s coastal lifestyle with a focus on fresh, seasonal flavours and a relaxed atmosphere. A familiar name in Sydney’s dining scene, Schott brings international experience from London’s Lanesborough Hotel and the Michelin-starred Apsleys in Hyde Park. After more than a decade in local kitchens, his appointment marks a refreshed approach for Coogee Bay Hotel’s food offering – one that leans on generous portions, seasonal produce and unfussy seaside dishes designed for sharing. “There’s something about Coogee that seeps into the soul. The salt in the air, the sound of the surf, and the warmth of a long lunch shared with friends,” says Schott. “Light spills through open windows. Sea breezes mingle with the scent of grilled seafood and citrus. Locals drift in for spritzes, seafood, and stories as the afternoon rolls effortlessly into evening.” The menu Of the menu, Schott says: “This summer menu captures that feeling, with dishes like crab and mussel rigatoni with white wine and garlic, pan-roasted salmon with beetroot Russian salad and dill butter, salt and pepper tofu poke with pickled daikon and soba noodles, and a ceviche of the day. “The menu is designed for sharing, with oysters, tostadas, salads, pizzas, burgers, and plenty of vegetarian options that bring the freshness of the coast to the plate.” General Manager Matt Murray says, “Coogee has always been about connection, to the beach, to the community, to good food shared with friends. With Justin at the helm, we’ve created something that feels distinctly Sydney, effortless and vibrant.” At the bar, the drinks list complements the easy-breezy menu. Guests can expect cocktails and spritzes alongside wines from both local and international producers, including Barossa shiraz, King Valley sangiovese and Provençal rosé, plus Champagne from Reims. Signature serves include a Coconut & Yuzu Margarita and a Pineapple Old Fashioned. Beach Bar & Dining is now open for walk-ins and reservations. Source: Original Spin Find more dining out updates on Crumb Wire.

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Prosciutto Negroni headlines new Hinchcliff House x Principe apertivo menu

Sydney’s Hinchcliff House is teaming up with cured meats producer Principe to launch an exclusive Aperitivo Hour menu, marking the Australian arrival of Prosciutto di San Daniele. Running from November 17 to December 14, the collaboration highlights San Daniele’s curing tradition through cocktails and small plates served across Hinchcliff House’s four venues: Bar Mammoni, Lana, Grana and Apollonia. Inspired by origins The menu draws on Principe’s origins in San Daniele del Friuli, shaped by cool alpine air and the Adriatic breeze, and adapts Italy’s pre-dinner ritual with a seasonal Australian edge. At its centre is the Principe Negroni, a take on the venue’s signature cocktail that uses Widge’s Gin fat-washed with Prosciutto di San Daniele, finished with a prosciutto garnish. Bar Mammoni and Apollonia will also pour the Melone Spritz, a nod to rockmelon with prosciutto, and the Monte Highball, paired with prosciutto butter and fig crostini. Each drink is designed to complement the flavour profile of the prosciutto. “Introducing Principe Prosciutto di San Daniele to Australia through Aperitivo Hour feels like the perfect beginning,” says Principe General Manager Susanna Polycarpou. “Born in a place like no other – where cool mountain air meets the salty Adriatic breeze – Principe is steeped in Italian tradition and crafted simply from four natural ingredients: Italian pork, salt, air and time. “We’re excited for Australians to experience the original San Daniele Prosciutto, made by craftsmen with pride and passion the traditional way – a delicate, savoury taste best enjoyed the Italian way: with friends, good drinks and pure pleasure. From San Daniele, with love.” Hinchcliff House Executive Chef Alex Wong says creating the menu was about honouring the product while keeping things playful. “I couldn’t be more excited to explore new ways to honour this amazing product with Principe, the original Prosciutto di San Daniele. “It’s been fantastic putting our own spin on the Italian tradition of Aperitivo Hour whether it’s paired with ssamjang butter, topping a scallop or finishing a raviolo fritto. “Principe prosciutto is aged slowly with just salt and time, as Italians have done for centuries, and is a best-in-class product – like the Ferrari of prosciutto.” House Made Hospitality Beverage Director Jason Williams adds, “We approached Principe Negroni the same way you’d pair a beautiful ingredient on a plate, respecting its flavour and letting it shine. Fat-washing Widge’s Gin with Principe prosciutto gives the Negroni a softer texture and a subtle savoury depth.” The Principe Aperitivo Hour menu runs from Monday, November 17 to Sunday, December 14 across all levels of Hinchcliff House in Sydney. Source: We Are Different Find more dining out updates on Crumb Wire.

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Chef Profile: Luigi ‘Gigi’ Pozzoli on Milanese roots and the importance of keeping an open mind

Raised above a Milanese patisserie, Luigi ‘Gigi’ Pozzoli grew up surrounded by the scent of pastry and the rhythm of kitchens. In this Crumb Wire profile, the Le Cordon Bleu–trained chef and gelato maker at Gigi’s Gelato talks about honouring Italian tradition, mastering technique and keeping an open mind. What first sparked your love for food, and how did you get your start in the industry?  I was raised in a family of excellent cooks – my grandmother and three cousins were all great in the kitchen. I grew up in an apartment above a famous patisserie in the Milan area and every day there would be some kind of sweet treat in the air.  In my previous occupation, I was an international sales executive and spent a lot of time wining and dining with clients in top restaurants, not only in Italy, but across Europe and the US.  My passion grew from there and I decided I wanted to cook and bake delicacies myself. What’s been your journey so far – from your first job to where you are now?  I’m both a cuisine and patisserie chef – I can’t imagine giving up one for the other, as they truly complement each other. I trained at Le Cordon Bleu, where I obtained Le Grand Diplôme in both cuisine and pastry, specialising in French food alongside my Italian roots.  Being open-minded is key, as it allows you to learn techniques from top chefs and cuisines and apply them to your own food. Techniques are fundamental, and as part of my journey, I also specialised in sous vide cooking and gelato. I learnt the art of gelato from an Italian gelato champion. What have been some of your greatest achievements and challenges along the way?  We are proud of bringing authentic Italian food and gelato to Melbourne. Too often, what is called “Italian” abroad, or even here in Australia, isn’t the real deal. Outside your property/properties, what are your current favourite food joints?  Fired Up Pizza in Clayton. Which chefs and cuisines inspire you most – past or present?  Thomas Keller and Gualtiero Marchesi have both been major inspirations. How do you think Australia’s food culture has evolved in recent years?  There’s been a real shift toward fusion cooking, which has really shaped the dining landscape. Personally, I’m a big believer in staying true to tradition. Italian food has such a rich history, and I like to celebrate it in its purest form. Any exciting food trends you’ve tried at home – or sneaked onto the menu? I love revisiting Italian classics! I respect tradition, but I also don’t shy away from incorporating modern techniques when they enhance the result. And finally, what do you love doing when you’re not in the kitchen/at the venue?  Whenever I can, I travel the world looking for natural and historic beauty, and awesome food! And if I’m not travelling, then I am still in the kitchen cooking for my family. Find more food and drink features on Crumb Wire.

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Coles kicks off Movember 2025 with Harry Garside and free pop-up barber cuts

Australian boxer and Olympic medallist Harry Garside picked up the clippers last week, to give Coles team members fresh cuts and spark conversations about men’s health. The pop-up Movember barber shop was stationed outside Coles Tooronga Village in Melbourne. The event marked the launch of Coles’ 2025 Movember campaign, which aims to build on last year’s record $1.7 million donation for men’s health initiatives. Coles has been a Movember partner since 2010, raising more than $6 million to date for programs focused on mental health, suicide prevention, prostate cancer and testicular cancer. This year, the retailer will again donate 50 cents from every men’s deodorant, grooming and incontinence product sold in-store and online until December 2, with a maximum donation of $1.1 million. Participating Products Coles Bakery will also donate 10 cents from every Movember Biscuit sold between October 29 and December 2. A number of brand partners are joining the effort too, each pledging their own support. Amaysim will donate $1 for each selected product sold in-store with a minimum contribution of $25,000, while MasterFoods will contribute 10 cents from selected sauces up to $100,000. Coles Burger Sauce will donate 50 cents from each specially marked bottle up to $50,000, and Nando’s sauces and rubs will contribute 20 cents from selected products up to $40,000. Bonds will donate 50 cents from every selected item sold, with a maximum of $40,000, while Mission Foods will give 20 cents from each selected product up to $25,000. Men’s Health Awareness “Movember is more than moustaches, it’s about starting conversations and making health awareness part of our everyday lives. Coles is making it easy for Aussies to back the movement simply by picking up a men’s self-care product or grabbing a Movember biscuit from the bakery,” said Harry Garside. “Movember reminds us that self-care is strength, not weakness, and caring about our appearance as men reflects a deeper care for our wellbeing. No matter what people think, looking after yourself isn’t just about gym sessions or diets, it’s about mental health, regular check-ups, and yes, even grooming.” Acting Coles Group Corporate Affairs Officer Jace Armstrong said the partnership continues to make a lasting impact on men’s health. “Through our long-standing partnership with Movember, and with the incredible support of our team members, customers and suppliers, Coles has helped fund thousands of men’s health initiatives. “Each year, our team members enthusiastically take part in the Movember Coles Group Challenge, and we’re inviting customers to get involved too, whether by picking up men’s personal care products, selected sauces and corn chips, or our limited-edition Coles Bakery Movember Cookie throughout the month.” Director of Partnerships for Movember, Kieran Ryan, said the retailer’s continued support helps drive meaningful change. “By making it easy for customers to support the movement while they shop, they’re helping to spark vital conversations and raise funds for mental health, suicide prevention, prostate and testicular cancer initiatives. “Every donation, every interaction at the Movember pop-up barber station, and every purchase of a participating product helps us make a real difference in the lives of men across Australia.” Movember’s programs fund community outreach, medical research and awareness initiatives across Australia, helping men connect, seek help and prioritise their health. For crisis support or suicide intervention services, call Lifeline on 13 11 14. Find more food and drink stories on Crumb Wire.

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