Cheers! Iconic local produce festival returns

MORE than four thousand visitors are expected to descend on Heathcote early next month for the 2023 Wine and Food Festival.

The festival has been running annually for more than 16 years and is an icon on the Australian Wine calendar, showcasing the region’s major industry.

“The festival will feature more than 40 local wine producers as well as live music by Bendigo Blues and Roots, lawn games by Games on the Green and scavenger hunts,” said Jo Moody from the Heathcote Wine Growers Association.

Returning to host their popular and educational Tasting Table are Meg & Mel, the hosts of Australia’s number one wine podcast.

Meg Brodtmann is Australia’s first female master of wine, while Mel Gilchrist is a self-titled “Master of Sabrage”.

The pair explore the world of wine through their podcast in a “fun and approachable way.”

“A large percentage of attendees across the two days are from Metro Melbourne,” said Ms Moody. “There will be buses running from both Bendigo and Melbourne.”

The festival is a chance to be among the first to sample new release wines from the region and learn about the wines that have recently achieved success in international and national awards.

General admission tickets include all tastings and a souvenir Heathcote wine glass to take home.

The Wine and Food Festival is set for Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 October, tickets prices start at $10 and can be purchased via heathcotewinegrowers.com.au.