We caught up with Jarrod Stivala – or Stiv, as most know him – longtime operations lead at CBCo Brewing and one of the newest board members of the Fishermans Bend Business Forum. With nearly 15 years at CBCo, Jarrod has helped shape the brewery’s growth from a local favourite into a national name, while keeping a sharp focus on team culture, logistics, and building venues that bring people together.
As a representative on the City of Port Phillip’s Business Advisory Group, Jarrod brings deep local insight and a passion for community connection to everything he does.
In our chat, he shared his views on the power of collaboration, the importance of accessible infrastructure, and his hopes for Fishermans Bend as a thriving, welcoming destination for locals and visitors alike.
Read on to hear Stiv’s thoughts on why now is the time to invest in people, place and possibility in Fishermans Bend.
Tell us a bit about you and your work outside of Fishermans Bend Business Forum
I’ve been with CBCo Brewing for close to 15 years, working across operations. My role spans venue development, logistics, systems and strategy — basically anything that helps keep the wheels turning. I’m passionate about supporting local industry and creating places where people can connect over good food, drink and culture.
Why did you choose to join the FBBF?
Alongside my role at CBCo, I sit on the Business Advisory Group for the City of Port Phillip as the Fishermans Bend representative. So it made perfect sense to be part of FBBF and support the group wherever I can. I want to help strengthen the voice of local businesses and contribute to shaping the future of the precinct.
What will your focus be as a member?
Definitely connection and collaboration. That’s something I enjoy and something I’m good at, bringing people together, finding opportunities to support one another, and helping turn ideas into action.
What do you enjoy most about working/living in Fishermans Bend?
I live in Port Melbourne and work in Fishermans Bend, so I’m closely connected to the area. There’s a real sense of community here — lots of local businesses are keen to collaborate and bring more people into the precinct. It’s got huge potential, being so close to the city, and I’d love to see it become a destination that people are proud to visit — where getting off the boat at Station Pier leads you straight into something vibrant and uniquely local.
What do you see as the most pressing issues in the area?
Transport and infrastructure – without question. It’s the key to unlocking the precinct’s potential and aligns with FBBF’s goals. Making the area more accessible is critical to supporting growth and encouraging more foot traffic and investment.
Favourite local spot?
Of course, CBCo Port Melbourne for a beer and a burger is the top pick – but outside of that, I’m a big fan of Coe & Coe or Frontside Cafe for coffee and a sandwich. And if I’m winding down, Starward is the go-to for a whiskey.
