Pale Ale was the beer of choice in the 1880´s, when James Boag purchased the Esk Brewery. Then, as now, it was crafted in a traditional malt brew, dry hopped process, using imported East Kent Golding hops.

In 1929, Tasmania´s wild weather got out of hand, with gale force winds and 250mm of rain lashing the Launceston area for 48 hours straight. A Great Flood inundated the town, leaving 4,000 people homeless and creating several heroes. One of these was a man called Wizard Smith – an employee of J. Boag & Son.

Wizard worked as a drayman, attending to the brewery´s draft horses on a daily basis. These heavy haulage horses were vital to the brewery, as they delivered the malt and beers around town.

Early on the 4th of April 1929, Wizard noticed the flood waters rising rapidly over the river flats. His thoughts immediately flashed to the brewery horses.

Without delay he jumped onto his pushbike and rode as far as he could onto the Tamar St Bridge. When he could go no further, Wizard discarded the bike and pressed on through the rising flood waters. Finally reaching the stables, he swam inside and led the valuable brewery horses to dry ground.

The board at J. Boag & Son, chaired by James Boag III at the time, was so impressed at Wizard´s selfless act that he was rewarded with a job for life. Under no circumstances was he to be fired – a rare privilege that Wizard was never known to abuse. What a legend!

Today, J Boag & Son dedicates this very special English Ale to all our heroes. This brand is only available in Tasmania.