Take part in regional food fest

HOSPITALITY venues, growers and producers from across the Central Highlands region have been invited to take part in the 2025 Forage and Feast Festival, which is due to take place in summer.

The festival from 13 January to 16 February is designed to promote the region as a food destination and a producing powerhouse, as well as fill a gap in the tourism calendar in the area and encourage visitation to the area.

The Central Highlands region covers six local government areas; Ballarat, Ararat, Pyrenees, Golden Plains, Moorabool and Hepburn.

Businesses are required to submit an expression of interest by 4 October, including a description of the event, which Central Highlands growers or producers will be showcased (minimum of two), applicable dates, which LGA the event will be held in, and photos to be used for marketing purposes. There is no cost to take part.

Events can be anything that celebrates produce that’s grown or made locally and can include breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, degustations, tastings, masterclasses, farm experiences or tours and demonstrations.

Commerce Ballarat CEO Jodie Gillett said it’s exciting to be able to grow the festival across the six LGAs to shine a light on the region’s “amazing venues and produce.”

“We’re showing Victorians that there is more to do in summer than go to the beach, and to showcase the amazing experiences we have right here in the Central Highlands,” she said.

For further information and to lodge an expression of interest, visit the Central Highlands Growers and Producers Hub website at centralhighlandsgrowers.com.au.