Yeah,Phil. I regularly make my own brew. Here are a couple of examples of my recent work. First one is an Oz-type lager. Second is similar to Newcastle Nutbrown Ale. Both were quite good.


Sorry I can't invite you in for a taste, but Haz will confirm the drinkability. You can get everything you need right there in Oz. Check
www.coopers.com.au and makebeer.net for all the information. Sanitation is key--I use household chlorine bleach and rinse everything well after soaking. Wear rubber gloves for this part as chlorine is not good for hide. If tap water is off tasting, use bottled because every fault will be magnified in the beer.
Takes about 3-4 weeks start to finish. You can go crazy with hygrometers and stuff, but I just use a 6-gallon food grade plastic bucket with a fitted lid and an airlock. It will bubble right along for about 10 days and when it slows to one burp in 10 to 20 minutes, it's about 24 hours away from bottling. Add some dextrose or cane sugar to each bottle, fill and cap, then wait another 10-14 days before chilling and enjoying. There will be a bit of residue in the bottom of the bottle, so pour in one motion and stop just before the sediment exits the bottle. You will get a beer that's about 10% alcohol or better if you have carefully followed the steps. If you have any questions, or just want to pick my brain a bit, give an IM or an email and I will happily share all I have learned. Good luck and enjoy.
Crusader