Thousands flocked to Aratula over the weekend for the 2018 Winter Harvest Festival.
Eat Local Week’s signature event continues to go from strength-to-strength with the authentic food festival proving a massive hit with lovers of fine fare yet again.
The rain which had lingered ominously in the previous 24 hours cleared to reveal a magnificent day in the country as the enthusiastic crowd, estimated to number 14,000, sampled all the Scenic Rim has to offer.
Eat Local week coordinator Genevieve Windley said it was easily the biggest turnout in the event’s history with every stallholder selling food made from ingredients produced locally.
“There’s lots of smiling faces, everyone is happy and everything is running smoothly,” she said.
“I’m seeing people with bags and armfuls of fresh produce.
“There’s a lot of new collaborations this year and people are loving them.
“From beer ice-cream to milk and honey vodka, to beetroot cordial, and dragon fruit and finger lime beer.”
Ms Windley said the Winter Harvest festival was organised by a small but extremely hard working team, with countless volunteers, local clubs, businesses and farmers all pulling together to ensure its success.
“We’re very thankful for everyone’s support.” she said.
Scenic Rim Regional Council mayor Greg Christensen said the increase in the number of people passing through the gate indicates the brand of the area is strengthening.
“What an absolute cracker,” he said.
“The weather is perfect and there’s crowds of people enjoying the experience of great food from the people who grew it.
“That’s what’s great about this – it’s connecting a new generation of people with the origins of great produce and great produce makes great food.
“Every member of our community should be proud that the res of south-east Queensland wants to come and try what we enjoy every day.”
