A CANBERRA gin and vodka distillery has stopped producing spirits and is now putting all its efforts into the production of hand sanitiser for frontline medical staff in the region. 

Underground Spirits, based in Kambah, has dedicated the distillery to the production of hand sanitiser only, says the distillery’s owner Dr Toby Angstmann.

“We are working with the ACT government to ensure that frontline medical staff in the ACT are serviced during this critical time as shortages are apparent,” Mr Angstmann says.

“Our sanitiser will go to health carers who need it most including GPs, doctors, nurses, theatre staff, emergency services and all health services.

Mr Angstmann says they have already pushed out a significant quantity of sanitiser – more than 1000 litres.

He says the sanitiser is being produced and sold at cost.

But, at the moment, he says they cannot produce enough hand sanitiser fast enough to sell it to retail customers.

“If we get to a point where we can sell to our customers, Canberrans will be the first to get their hands on it,” he says.