We kick off the week with our Farm to Fork cooking demonstrations, a showcase of culinary excellence and local flavours. From Monday to Thursday, join us for an exclusive series of demonstrations led by renowned personalities in the culinary world.
On Monday, celebrate Truffle Day with celebrity chef Matt Golinski, whose expertise will guide you through the delicate art of cooking with truffles, Balancing Heart Vineyard will also be present at the morning ‘Farm to Fork’ event, educating attendees on the perfect wines to complement that perfect meal. Tuesday local restaurant Varias will showcase local produce and the skills being taught at the Queensland College of Wine and Tourism. As the week progresses, immerse yourself in the vibrant world of berries with the team from Jamworks on Berry Day, and experience the heart of local produce with Local John Speranza on Apple Day.
Monday 26th February 2024 - Truffle Day - 11am - 2pm
Chef – Celebrity chef Matt Golinski
Maker– Truffle Discovery Centre
Winery – Balancing Heart Vineyard
Tuesday 27th February 2024 - Produce Day 11am - 2pm
Chef – Queensland College of Wine & Tourism restaurant, Varias
Primary Producer – Andreatta’s, Specialising in tomatoes and capsicums
Winery – Banca Ridge Wines
Wednesday 28th February 2024 - Berry Day 11am - 2pm
Chef – Jamworks
Primary Producer – Eastern Colour Specialising in apples and strawberries
Winery – Heritage Estate Wines
Thursday 29th February 2024 - Apple Day 11am - 2pm
Chef – John Speranza
Primary Producer – David McMahon, Specialising in apples
Winery – Ballandean Estate Wines
Each demonstration is a unique opportunity to learn from the best, engage with our local food heritage, and sample exquisite dishes. Not to forget Wines, with Balancing Heart Vineyard, Heritage Estate Wines, Banca Ridge Wines and Ballandean Estate Wines all on hand during the week to help you pair the right wine with your meal and discuss the latest information on harvest season.
In addition to these mouthwatering demonstrations, we offer daily tours of local producing farms from Monday to Thursday. These tours are a rare chance to meet the passionate individuals behind our region's exceptional produce, witness the care and dedication that goes into every harvest, and perhaps even pick a few samples straight from the source.
The festival culminates with the three-day Queensland Country Bank Food and Wine Fiesta. This event is a celebration of local excellence, featuring 18 local wineries, breweries, and producers. It's an unparalleled opportunity to taste the best our region has to offer, we have Granite Belt on a plate for you!