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East Gippsland Winter Festival lights up the region

Words by Della Vreeland
Images supplied

Ice sculpting, music, markets, sword fights, feasting and fire shows – these are just some of the highlights set to grace the program of this year’s enthralling East Gippsland Winter Festival (EGWF).

Held between June 9 and July 9, the month-long festival will feature an array of more than 100 events scattered across the East Gippsland region.

One of the most diverse winter festival programs in the country, the third annual festival has been extended this year with a program of events that will kick off on the King’s Birthday long weekend. Expect a kaleidoscope of art, food, culture, nature, entertainment, and the very best that this neck of the woods has to offer.

Originally created as a response to the devastating 2019/20 Black Summer Bushfires, festival founder Adam Bloem says the Winter Festival has now taken on ‘a life of its own’.

‘It was initially established to celebrate the wonderful spirit and resilience of the people of East Gippsland, and to provide an economic boost by attracting visitors back to the region after a couple of really tough years,’ he says.

The 2023 program will include a special performance by C.W. Stoneking and his Primitive Horn Orchestra as they take to the stage by the banks of the Snowy River. Guests will have the chance to warm up to the blues sounds of this quintet as well as the fine fare that accompanies the event.

The band is headlining the Deep in the Weeds festival – their gig held at Sailors Grave Brewing – providing the perfect chance for punters to also check out other Deep in the Weeds festival events around Orbost and Marlo during their visit.

Other EGWF highlights include the Fire & Ice live ice sculpting and fire show on the Metung Village Green, the Bruthen Medieval Winter Fire Festival featuring sword fights, bonfires, music, roving performers and feasting, the Lakes Lights community lantern parade across the Lakes Entrance Footbridge, as well as the Winter in Laneway party with projection art, live music, and street food bringing the heart of Bairnsdale to life.

A whole range of other free activities and family-friendly events are yet to be announced, such as long lunches, wellness experiences, elusive music performances, and hands-on workshops, rounding off a festival that is set to truly ignite the magic of wintertime and the beauty of the East Gippsland region.

THE DETAILS:

WHAT: East Gippsland Winter Festival
WHEN: June 9 to July 9, 2023
FIND OUT MORE: East Gippsland Winter Festival

We wish to acknowledge the traditional owners of this land and to pay our respects to their Elders, past and present.

Kryal Castle adds BIG4 Holiday Park — just in time for the school holidays

Words by Tehya Nicholas
Images supplied

Ever wished you could go to bed at night, gaze out your window and see a medieval castle haloed by the moonlight? What was once regaled to Lords and Ladies of the Dark Ages is now a contemporary, affordable opportunity with the opening of BIG4 Kryal Castle Holiday Park.

Set to officially open on Friday, April 7th—just in time for the autumn school holidays—the new BIG4 Kryal Castle Holiday Park will expand the attraction’s current accommodation offerings to include 57 powered campsites, 16 one-bedroom cabins, and four luxurious two-story loft tiny homes. With modern furnishings and comfortable proportions, these sleeping quarters are a far cry from those of a bygone era.

Kryal Castle BIG4

Families looking to drop anchor within arms reach of entertainment will be well-catered for at the holiday park. An onsite games room comes equipped with Xbox consoles and bean bags, and a large playground will keep the kids amused for hours. Grown-ups can seek refuge with a local drop on the lounge-style deck overlooking the stunning Ballarat cityscape. Even better, your four-legged furry friends are also welcome to stay with you.

For the first month of its opening, guests will receive a 50% discount on entry to the theme park. From jousting tournaments to archery, quirky characters, Knight School, and magical potions, Kryal Castle can fulfil (almost) every medieval desire.

The BIG4 Kryal Castle Holiday Park is conveniently located just a quick 15-minute drive away from Ballarat town centre. Not only does this freshly minted holiday park fulfil the growing demand for more accommodation options in the area, but it also aims to restore tourism to its pre-Covid levels. Upcoming hot ticket items on the Kryal Castle event calendar include the Unicorn Festival from 7th-21st April and the Smashing Pumpkins The World Is A Vampire Tour on Sunday 3rd of April.

Kryal Castle

“We’re thrilled to open the holiday park and hope that its unique location will attract more visitors to experience Kryal Castle while also increasing the accommodation offering in Ballarat. Our aim is to encourage visitors to explore all the region has to offer,” said Kryal Castle CEO Bart Hamilton.

The holiday park is part of a $5.6 million initial development, privately funded by Kryal Castle, with the option to expand a further 119 sites on the eastern side of the castle grounds.

THE DETAILS

WHAT: BIG4 Kryal Castle Holiday Park
WHEN: Friday, April 7th
FIND OUT MORE: BIG4 Kryal Castle Holiday Park

We wish to acknowledge the Wadawurrung people as traditional owners of this land and to pay our respects to their Elders, past and present.

The best outdoor experiences to discover in charming Heathcote

Words by Della Vreeland
Images supplied

Walks Heathcote Doused in history and oozing with character and flair, the hamlet of Heathcote is a central Victorian goldfields town that has all the things going for it.

Established in the 1850s, the town boasts grand gold rush architecture and is fast-becoming one of Australia’s most-loved wine regions – enticing travellers to uncover all its finest tourism offerings.

And while indulgent culinary experiences, five-star accommodation, and sweet boutiques are among some of its most alluring attractions, it is perhaps the stunning landscapes, historic streetscapes and serene natural surroundings that make Heathcote one of the most attractive and picturesque places to visit in regional Victoria.

Nestled between the imposing McHarg and McIvor Ranges and sitting at the base of Mount Ida,  a visit to Heathcote will see you soaking up the great outdoors amidst the dense ironbark forests, venturing along one of the many walking trails, enjoying a whole load of recreational activities, or simply savouring the autumnal hues and sights that the fall season bestows.

Here are some of our top picks for a rich and adventure-filled autumn experience in charming Heathcote. So sport your finest outerwear, and get set to explore.

Pink Cliffs

HeathcoteA mesmerising and colourful phenomenon, the Pink Cliffs were brought to light by the region’s early gold-mining activities. The site of major sluicing works until the early 1880s, the colourful, hill-like terrain of the cliffs provides not only an interesting stroll itself but is perfect for bird-watching and spotting wildflowers too.

Valley of Liquidambers

HeathcoteAs the name suggests, this natural wonder will have you immersed in a sea of amber and other autumn tones as you appreciate the true beauty that autumn-time provides. Located close to the centre of town just adjacent to McIvor Creek, you can pack a picnic lunch and relish in the superb colours and splendid views.

Viewing Rock Lookout and Devil’s Cave

HeathcoteTake in the entire township of Heathcote as you power up the incline through the forest and to the rock for a panoramic view of the town and surrounding area. Close to the top of the Viewing Rock, you’ll be able to visit Devil’s Cave – a place used as shelter for the First Nations Peoples and, later, gold miners during their travels. An easy to moderate 90-minute climbing walk, it’s a sure way to get your holiday exercise in while enjoying some solitude.

O’Keefe Rail Trail

Heathcote BikingThis historic journey from Heathcote to Bendigo has been travelled on since the late 1800s when the railway line first linked the two towns. Today, the recreational trail beside the old railway line allows users to journey the full 50 kilometres – albeit at a slightly slower pace. One of Victoria’s most family-friendly journeys, you’ll travel past some spectacular natural bushland, waterways and recreation reserves. Pack a picnic, spot some wondrous wildflowers, and maybe even chat with a platypus or two.

The trail even has water stations at key locations, as well as bike repair stations and interpretive and directional signage – ensuring your adventure is as smooth as possible!

If you’re an avid biker, there are plenty more trails around the town that will provide a decent glimpse into all the region’s glory – coffee included. Find out more here.

Historic Walk

Heathcote WalksTake a self-guided tour of Heathcote’s most iconic landmarks as you travel back in time and admire some of the most beautiful architecture from the Victorian era. The town’s Historic Walk contains 20 sites, each with a rich story to tell, and some which can be entered if visited at the right time. Download your own map here, and let your curiosity unfold.

Lake Eppalock

Heathcote WalksConstructed in the 1960s as a water catchment for irrigation, this iconic lake now acts as one of the major spaces for recreation of all sorts in the region – whether it’s a spot of fishing, waterskiing, boating, swimming or even bird-watching. Located on the Campaspe River and with some impressive scenery to boot – this is the place to be during your autumn escape.

Reserves and National Parks

Walks HeathcoteHeathcote’s location makes for some rather impressive natural wonders. Surrounded by reserves and national parks, your visit is bound to be riddled with adventure and its link to the gold rush past means you’ll likely come across some relics from the gold rush during your outdoor travels. Heathcote-Graytown National Park, Argyle and Spring Plains State Forest and One Eye State Forest are just some of the parklands to explore during your visit – just ensure you steer clear of any uncovered mine shafts still standing from the days of yore.

 

 

 

THE DETAILS

WHAT: Heathcote in Autumn
FIND OUT MORE: Heathcote

We wish to acknowledge the Taungurung people as traditional owners of this land and to pay our respects to their Elders, past and present.

A set of major light installations are coming to two Murray River towns

Words by Tehya Nicholas
Images supplied

Two Australian towns will be brought to light with a new set of sweeping outdoor light art installations created by renowned visual artist Bruce Munro.

The project, named Light/State, will be one of the country’s newest outdoor tourism attractions, with two awe-inspiring installations approved for Mildura and Wentworth region. The two sites near the New South Wales and Victorian border and both are an easy 35-50-minute drive from Mildura town centre, away from light-filled urban areas, under expansive skies.

The first installation already under construction is Victoria’s Trail of Light, a meandering stream of light comprising 12,550 illuminated ‘fireflies’, 502 ‘pods’ and projectors, and 126 solar units. It will be experienced each evening with a reflective walking journey starting at the main Lake Cullulleraine walking track, with over 301,200 flickering lights guiding the way. Munro says he intends this installation to be a “quieter experience, where people can feel meditative as they walk around and enjoy the nature surrounding them.”

The second installation, Fibre Optic Symphonic Orchestra (FOSO), will be an abstract installation with a light-responsive symphonic orchestra. Eighty-two-meter high, five-meter diameter light installations, in the form of the iconic Hill’s Hoist, will represent the musicians. Visitors can either walk through the light-scape or view from the escarpment as sound is translated into colour and beamed across the landscape.

British/Australian artist Bruce Munro, known globally for producing large-scale immersive, site-specific light installations is designing both works. He has produced more than 45 exhibitions around the world, including the famed Field of Light at Uluru. Each one is inspired by his interest in the human experience and pairs his emotive themes with natural landscapes.

The project is set to open in two phases with Victoria’s Trail of Light premiering in late 2023 and FOSO opening in the second half of 2024. Wentworth Shire Council, in partnership with Mildura Regional Development, secured $4.99 million of final funding as part of the NSW Regional Tourism Activation Fund. In addition, there is $1.26 million from other local contributors, bringing the total project value to $6.25 million. In Victoria, Mildura Regional Development secured $3 million in Victorian Government funding in May 2022 for the Victorian installation at Lake Cullulleraine.

Mildura Regional Development CEO, Brett Millington said “We’re excited to be able to deliver the whole project of Light/State, which we know will add value to our regional economy and build on further cross-border opportunities.”

The project will also provide infrastructure such as roads, site transfers, parking spaces, glamping and increased accommodation options. Hospitality venues will also be a part of the boom, ensuring punters are well-catered for during their stays.

The after-dark installations are predicted to attract 300,000 overnight visitors over the installation’s first two years, significantly lifting Mildura’s profile as a region to live, work and invest. The project is expected to inject up to $150 million into the local economy per annum and will undoubtedly attract visitors from afar, curious to see this iconic land lit up after dark.

THE DETAILS
WHAT: Light/State Installations
WHERE: Mildura, VIC and Wentworth, NSW
WHEN: Opening late 2023 and into 2024
MORE INFO: Light/State

We wish to acknowledge the Latji Latji and Ngintait people as traditional owners of this land and to pay our respects to their Elders, past and present.

A culinary tour of the continents is coming to Bunjil Place all throughout March

Words by Anthea Riskas
Images supplied

No need to pack your passport, Global Flavour Feast at Bunjil Place is bringing a world of food and entertainment to you!

This family-friendly series of outdoor events will take you on a culinary journey every Friday night in March, to discover the tastes and entertainment offerings from a different continent each week.

Friday 3rd March – Americas

First up is the Americas, with vendors bringing the heat of Caribbean jerk-style cooking, fried chicken and ribs and traditional dishes from Chile and Argentina via social enterprise Wellsprings for Women, who train women from refugee and migrant backgrounds in hospitality skills. Add some live Latin music via Los Locos and you’ve got yourself a fiesta!

Friday 10th March – Australasia

Week 2 will be closer to home, with the theme being Australasia and showcasing the best of Polynesia and Samoa alongside the humble, but classic sausage sizzle – guaranteed to be better than Bunnings.

Bunjil Place

Friday 17th March – Europe

Week 3 you’ll head to Europe with not just food but dance performances and workshops from Greece, Turkey and beyond.
Australia’s largest Greek dance school, MANAISS will be performing traditional dance and also teaching workshops for those who would like to learn some traditional moves.

Friday 24th March – Africa

The final destination on this delicious journey, is Africa, with a huge line-up that will let you experience taste sensations from South Africa, Morocco, Sudan and Egypt as well as enjoy the exuberant beats of West African drumming and dance.

There’s never been a better excuse to avoid cooking on a Friday night!

THE DETAILS

Who: Global Flavour Feast
What: Outdoor Food & Entertainment
When: Every Friday in March, 5.30-9.30pm
Where: Bunjil Place Plaza,  Narre Warren
Cost: FREE
More Info: Bunjil Place

We wish to acknowledge the Wadawurrung people as traditional owners of this land and to pay our respects to their Elders, past and present.

A regional accommodation space with a special story to tell

Words by Della Vreeland
Images by Abbie Melle

Stories are meant to move us. They inspire us, inform us, and educate us on the past, present and future. They seep through the pages of a book, they sound through the notes of a song, and they erupt from the colours on a canvas.

They also live in every nook and cranny of The Storekeeper’s House.

Located in the rural town of Tatura, just 20 minutes southwest of Shepparton, The Storekeeper’s House is indeed a story, a homage, an ode to the past. Celebrating its rich history, it has been lovingly restored by owners Carrie Donaldson and her husband Luis who spent two gruelling years undertaking an extensive restoration of the property to get it to where it is now. Where a tale of yesteryear can be told, and the inspiration for tomorrow can unfold.

The Storekeeper’s House was first built in 1905 by Thomas Flanagan, one of Tatura’s earliest businessmen, and had been held in the family for generations. Thomas founded Flanagan’s Store – a large general store that specialised in drapery and haberdashery and later expanded to ironmongery goods, boot-making and repairs.

Scattered throughout the house, you’ll find bits and bobs that will transport you to the time and reality of Thomas Flanagan – so you too can relive his story. There’s an antique cash register, vintage price tags, yarn, thread and spools, vintage hat and shoe moulds, keys and coat-hangers from the days of yore. All a nod to the home’s former founders.

Storekeepers House Tatura

Then there are the original features of the home – the short iron roof with corrugated glass skylight in the butler’s pantry, the original cast iron lacework and cast iron stove, exposed bricks, timber flooring, and even a surprise safe embedded in the lounge room fireplace.

But what we love most is how tastefully the entire home has been designed, with a relaxed rustic aesthetic that introduces contemporary elements into every room (hello lux French flax linen, clawfoot bath, rain showers, golden fittings and premium bath and body products), as well as sweet vintage knick-knacks, dried foliage, gilt-framed oil paintings, original photographs and antique furniture – making for a coherent design that is soul-warming and joy-inducing.

Goulburn Valley Accommodation

Carrie and Luis have also done a brilliant job hiding all those dull everyday items (kitchen cupboards and draws, television, microwave and toaster) so they just blend into the background instead of dominating the space. There’s nothing we love more than entering a living room and not having the television as the statement piece!

It’s also the little things that complete one’s stay away. The fact that there’s bread, spreads, tea, coffee and milk awaiting when you arrive. The fact that there’s a cupboard full of games or that Netflix is all signed in for guest use. The fact that there are practical items ready to further enrich your stay. Feel like a picnic under the stars? There’s a basket all packed. Want a game of croquet with the kids on the lawn? It’s all ready by the door. Fancy a trip to the market but forgot your bags? The bags are a-hanging by the pantry.

And while there’s a whole heap to discover around the Goulburn Valley region where The Storekeeper’s House is located, you’ll be forgiven for simply wanting to curl up in one of the leather couches with a hot cocoa in-hand and a soft woollen throw (no matter the season), and to simply soak up the story you find yourself now a part of.

THE DETAILS

WHAT: The Storekeeper’s House
WHERE: Tatura, Goulburn Valley
FIND OUT MORE: The Storekeepers House

We wish to acknowledge the Yorta Yorta people as traditional owners of this land and to pay our respects to their Elders, past and present.

Hunt Gather Gander gives country markets a fresh spin

Words by Anthea Riskas
Images supplied

It’s a big call to promise a line-up of never-before-seen stallholders, but if anyone has the confidence and expertise to pull it off, it’s the producers of Hunt Gather Gander, a new series of events, put together by a family who’ve been staging craft markets around Victoria since 1975.

The premise is simple: Gather with friends, have a gander at the entertainment on offer and hunt around for a bargain.

The promise is that there will be live music, kids’ activities, lawn games and a mash-up of stallholders that will include handmade, vintage and secondhand goods, designer and boutique brands, and food and drink.

The idea is that by expanding the exhibitor criteria to facilitate a broader range of retailers, introducing all-day entertainment, and providing picnic tables, the organisers are hoping to invite a younger, curious audience to come and visit and take part in an experience, rather than just wander around some stalls.

The organisers are hoping that by expanding the exhibitor criteria to facilitate a broader range of retailers, introducing all-day entertainment, and providing picnic tables, visitors will enjoy an experience that takes the country market to a whole new level.

With dates locked in for 3 different locations in 2023 – Mornington, Yarra Glen and Werribee – there’s a heavy focus on the uniqueness of each Hunt Gather Gander event. The region itself will dictate the line-up and ambience, by focusing on the best of what the local producers, creators, artists, makers, growers and small businesses have to offer, as well as leaning into the natural surrounds.

The first Hunt Gather Gander is set to take over Mornington Racecourse on Saturday 25th February, with Yarra Glen Racecourse to follow on Saturday 8th April and then a Springtime re-emergence on Saturday, October 28th amongst the grounds of the majestic Werribee Park Mansion.

Entry to the first seaside day out is $10, with parking and kids under 12 free.

And if you’re a local vendor, applications are still open, so get in touch via the details below if you want to be featured as part of this exciting new endeavour.

THE DETAILS

Who: Hunt Gather Gander
What: A new series of outdoor shopping and entertainment events
When: February, April & October 2023
Where: Various locations around Victoria
How much: $10 with kids free
More Info: Hunt Gather Gander

We wish to acknowledge the traditional owners of this land and to pay our respects to their Elders, past and present.

The Bin Chicken is about to take flight in South Geelong

Words by Anthea Riskas
Images supplied

Aaron Dixon is nothing if not determined – he’s been sitting on (and paying for) his vacant piece of grassy land on Little Fyans Street since 2021. Permits, pandemic restrictions, power connections and a chronic illness diagnosis have all played part in delaying his plans for a Food Truck Park in South Geelong.

But The Bin Chicken is now just a few short weeks away from launching and Aaron’s enthusiasm is just as infectious and obvious as it was 2 years ago when he first came up with the idea. “Geelong needs this,” is his simple answer as to why he hasn’t given up.

Aaron wants to give the local food truck vendors a weekly, central place to trade that’s not based on events, highlighting this style of dining as an experience in and of itself.

The casual, backyard-style lawn can hold 120 people and the invite extends to kids, pals and pets, to come and gather on weekends, listen to some tunes, sample some cuisine, and make yourself at home amongst the pallet furniture and corrugated iron fence covered in colourful street art.

This isn’t Aaron’s first foray into opening a venue, he successfully ran a similar space – The Bird Watching Society – in Prahran for a few years, but with this change in location and personal circumstances, has come a cascade of new ideas and ambitions.

Social inclusion, accessibility, and a focus on collaborating with community-based Orgs is an important delineation between the two projects, “Initially we’ll only be here 3 days a week, so I’m happy to throw the keys to people and say, ‘Use it’ if it helps,” as a place to stage fundraisers or events.

And when The Bin Chicken finally welcomes its first visitors in mid-February, they can expect to find food from vans like Pizza Pawn and Workers Barbecue, live music from buskers and DJs, a regular makers market and even Geelong’s first non-alcoholic bar – a concept that’s had huge traction with the sober-curious in Melbourne over the past 12 months.

Some of these ideas might be new, but the planning has been a long-time in the making and as far as its founder is concerned this Food Truck Park “with personality” has been worth waiting for.

THE DETAILS

Who: The Bin Chicken
What: Food Truck Park
Where: 46 Little Fyans Street, Geelong South
When: Opening mid-February 2023
More Info: The Bin Chicken South Geelong

We wish to acknowledge the Wadawurrung people as traditional owners of this land and to pay our respects to their Elders, past and present.

Midsumma Festival hits the regional road

Words by Anthea Riskas
Images supplied

Since debuting in Melbourne in 1988, Midsumma Festival has evolved into an internationally recognised, queer cultural institution, renowned for representing and gathering the best and most diverse LGBTQIA+ artists, performers and audiences as part of their programming.

With the organisation’s renewed strategic focus on increasing engagement across broad sectors of the community, this year’s events extend far beyond the city and the 2023 line-up has been heavily funded to include the Regions.

Some towns have been working on their involvement and projects since November 2022, so now it’s time to hit the road and celebrate LGBTQIA+ communities statewide!

Ballarat

Ballarat Frolic Festival
https://www.instagram.com/chayla.photographer/

The Frolic Festival is jamming 12 events, into 4 days, across Ballarat that range from cabaret to Indigenous-led bushwalks, history tours, a warehouse party and much more.

Frolic warmly welcomes youth, ND folk and any solo attendees, as well as organising return transport for locals who want to take part in Victoria’s Pride street party in Fitzroy on Sunday 12th February.

THE DETAILS
WHAT: Frolic Festival
WHERE: At various locations across Ballarat
WHEN: 9 – 12 Feb 2023
MORE INFO: Frolic Festival

 

 

Traralgon

Gippsland Day OutGippsland Pride Initiative Inc presents the first ever, family-friendly, 1-day, outdoor festival Gippsland’s Day Out!

This celebration of Gippy’s LGBTQIA+ community will play host to two stages of live music and DJs, Drag shows, kids’ entertainment and activities, as well as providing an indoor sensory chillout space and food and drink vendors from around the region.

THE DETAILS
WHAT: Gippsland’s Day Out
WHERE: Gippsland Performing Arts Centre
WHEN: 11 Feb 2023
MORE INFO: Gippsland Pride Initiative Inc

 

Shepparton

Pride BallIn another first, GV Pride are hosting Shepparton’s Inaugural Pride Ball and with a “Glitz and Glamour” dress code, guests can be sure to enjoy a fabulous and fun night that includes live Drag entertainment, a two-course meal and DJs to help dance the night away.

THE DETAILS
WHAT: Pride Ball
WHERE: The Woolshed, Kialla
WHEN: 11 Feb 2023
MORE INFO: Humanitix

 

 

 

Morwell

Midsumma Regional VACCA presents Queer & Koorie: A Showcase of LGBTQIA+ Mob, a multi-generational and family-friendly day of connection and storytelling through art, music and creativity.

This event will create a safe, inclusive, accessible and sustainable space aiming to bring together Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal LGBTQIA+ community with wider Community and allies, to enjoy traditional dance and other Cultural activities like basket weaving and painting.

THE DETAILS
WHAT: Queer & Koorie: A Showcase of LGBTQIA+ Mob
WHERE: Morwell Town Common (Elgin Street)
WHEN: 4 Feb 2023
MORE INFO: Gippsland Pride Initiative Inc 

For the full rundown of Regional events head to Midsumma Festival.

We wish to acknowledge the traditional owners of this land and to pay our respects to their Elders, past and present.

A food grower’s haven at Creative Harvest in West Gippsland

Words by Tehya Nicholas
Images supplied

Picture this: rows and rows of straw-tucked vegetable sprouts reaching their way towards the sun. A rusty wheelbarrow bursting with fresh herbs. Fruit trees laden with colourful, plump spheres in a sprawling backyard. All this might sound a little dreamy for an city dweller who, contained to their (approximately) 54 square metre apartment, may aspire only to keep their temperamental peace lily alive.

But wouldn’t it be nice if we knew more? If we could see the possibilities of a functioning, flourishing veggie garden — and better yet, learn the ways of the gardeners that tend to them? Creative Harvest, West Gippsland’s open food garden weekend, is back on 28 and 29 January 2023 to inspire and educate all the hopeful home growers out there, from the beginner to advanced.

The two-day event opens the gates to fifteen private food-producing gardens—from small suburban backyards to large family farms. Creative Harvest is all about sharing gardening know-how and sampling some of the fresh fruit and veg grown by locals. This year, the event’s sixth iteration, 30 local artists and creatives including beekeepers, winemakers, jam makers, jewellers, mosaic makers, painters, printmakers and sculptors, will be dropping by select gardens to share their work.

“Creative Harvest is a celebration of sustainability and community and a showcase for West Gippsland’s creative movers and shakers. We aim to demonstrate how simple it is to start or expand your own thriving food garden – in your kitchen window box, small backyard or on a large lifestyle block,” said Kristy Plumridge, Chair of the Creative Harvest Committee.

And what better timing? Post-pandemic, people are looking to unshackle themselves from the supermarket monopoly and grow their own food. Whether it’s a strawberry or two on a windowsill or a towering tomato plant by the backdoor, any homegrown produce is a step towards self-sufficiency and sustainability. The organisers are expecting their biggest turnout this year, up from the 1000-strong crowd of 2022.

An additional four hands-on workshops will take place across the weekend as well. Visitors can buy tickets to learn skills in hot composting, preserving and fermenting homegrown produce, growing veggies from seed or extracting dye from local flora. If you’re looking for more of an informal education, growers and makers will be milling around all weekend for a yarn.

Enjoy a great weekend in West Gippsland; bring the family, or your friends, or your dog. Just don’t forget to bring a basket for the tasty Gippsland produce you’re bound to discover. Tickets can be purchased online and Single, Family & Senior Weekend Passes are also available.

THE DETAILS
WHAT: Creative Harvest
WHERE: West Gippsland, multiple locations
WHEN: 28 and 29 January 2023
MORE INFO: Creative Harvest

We wish to acknowledge the Bunurong people as traditional owners of this land and to pay our respects to their Elders, past and present.