Sample festival serves up a winner

FOODIES were out in force for the annual Sample Food Festival at the Bangalow Showground last weekend.

The popular event gave attendees a chance to try bite-sized dishes from restaurants across the region and drinks from local breweries and producers. It also featured cooking workshops and challenges with local chefs, masterclasses, a kids’ cooking class, live music and market stalls.

First-time entrant Black Rock Café from Pottsville took out the savoury category in the Golden Fork Awards with their potato rosti smoked tuna rillette. In the sweet category, Bush Ice Creamery won with a Biscuit Creek truffle ice-cream — infused with honey from Greenwood Permaculture hives in chef Wal Foster’s backyard.

“Next year we need to create a Hall of Fame award because I think this is the fourth time Wal has won,” festival organiser Nadja Konietzko, from Myss Events, said.

Konietzko, who took over the event this year, said she was pleased with how the day unfolded.

Although morning rain kept crowd numbers lower than usual, sunshine returned in the afternoon, bringing a relaxed atmosphere. Blues band The Swamps helped lift spirits, entertaining the crowd in the bar area.

“The vibe was beautiful and the restaurants had a great day and some of the market stalls too,” Konietzko said. “I have received lots of emails from people thanking me for continuing the event.”

She encouraged festival-goers to support local events, donning a raincoat to attend if it’s raining to ensure their long-term viability.

Looking ahead, she’s already planning changes for next year’s event. These include a later start time, condensing the site to bring everything closer together and inviting more stallholders. She is also seeking sponsors and partners to help grow the festival in the future.

Angela Saurine served as a judge for this year’s Golden Fork Awards.