The mysterious origin of the four Xs in Australia's iconic beer

Countries & Cities · Published 12 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: In 1893, a Brisbane brewery introduced a brand name that used symbols to denote strength. Today, this label is a staple of Queensland culture, but the true identity of its famous mascot and the history of its unique grading system remain steeped in Australian brewing tradition.

The XXXX brand, pronounced 'four-ex', traces its roots to the late 19th century. In 1878, brothers Nicholas and Edward Fitzgerald moved from Victoria to Brisbane, purchasing an old distillery on 13 September. While they initially produced XXX Sparkling Ale, they introduced the XXXX brand in 1893. The use of Xs was a throwback to a long-standing tradition where symbols indicated the strength of an ale.

The brand's identity is inseparable from its mascot, Mr Fourex, a jovial cartoon character in a boater hat. Introduced in 1924 alongside XXXX Bitter, the character's inspiration is a subject of debate. One theory suggests he was modelled after Paddy Fitzgerald, a former general manager of the brewery. Another theory posits he was based on a well-known dwarf who sold newspapers in Fortitude Valley during the late 1920s. The true identity remains a mystery.

The brewery, located in Milton, Brisbane, has undergone significant evolution. Originally Castlemaine Brewing, it became Castlemaine Perkins in 1928 after acquiring the Perkins brewing company. The company's history includes a 1980 merger with Tooheys and a 1985 acquisition by Alan Bond's Bond Corp, before eventually becoming part of the Japanese conglomerate Kirin via Lion Nathan. The brewery's reach has even extended to the UK, where InBev Ltd brewed the beer under licence until 2009.

Today, the XXXX portfolio includes various strengths, from the 3.5% ABV XXXX Gold to the 4.4% ABV XXXX Bitter, which saw its alcohol content reduced from 4.6% in March 2016. The brand's cultural footprint is massive, sponsoring the Queensland Maroons and various cricket and V8 Supercars associations.

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