CONGRATULATIONS

... are well-deserved by Ian and Jenny Morphy, chef and owners of the Old George and Dragon in the Hunter Valley, at Maitland, NSW. This iconic restaurant has provided sustenance and inspiration to hundreds of food lovers over the twenty-five years it has been in operation. A quarter of a century in the hospitality industry in Australia is a magnificent milestone. Well done! For bookings and more details: www.oldgeorgeanddragon.com.au

HUNTER CONGRATULATIONS

Six Living Legends, between them responsible for over 250 years of contribution to the success of the Hunter Valley Wine industry, were inducted onto the Honour Board in June 2007. Selected by their industry peers, the first Greats to be awarded the mantle are: Max Drayton, Dr Max Lake, Karl Stockhausen, Percival McGuigan, John Tulloch and Brian Walsh.The inaugural 
Legends' names will be etched onto an Honour Board, which will be displayed at the Hunter Valley Visitors Centre.
The Hunter Valley produces approximately 39 million litres of wine annually which is worth more than A$270 million, and in addition attracts over 2.5 million visitors per year, both of which significantly underpin the region’s economy. 

UPTURN FOR YARRA VALLEY & DANDENONGS 

New opportunities in tourism are providing an exciting future for rural landowners in Victoria's Yarra Valley and the Dandenongs with the launch of Sustainable Tourism CRC's Farm and Nature Tourism Business Development program in the region on June 22nd. Held for the first time, the Yarra Ranges Tourism Field Day was the first stage of the tourism business development program which has run successful trials of the program with farmers in northern New South Wales. Initiatives such as Agri-tourism are expected to give visitors a unique way to experience the Yarra Valley and at first hand the highs and lows of rural life. The Victorian rollout of Sustainable Tourism CRC's Farm and Nature Tourism Business Development program is in partnership with Yarra Valley and The Dandenongs Marketing Ltd and the Australian Regional Tourism Research Centr

HUNTER GATHERING AWARDS

The proof is definitely in the pudding with members of the Hunter Chefs and Co winning twelve categories at the recent Hunter Restaurant and Catering Awards. Hunter Restaurant and Catering awards went to the following Hunter Chefs and Co members: Shakey Tables, Pokolbin (Australian Contemporary), Il Cacciatore at Hermitage Lodge, Pokolbin (Italian), Rock Restaurant, Pokolbin (New), Splash at the Vineyards Estate, Pokolbin (Motel / Motor inn/ Guesthouse), Esca at Bimbadgen Estate (Winery, tourism), Terroir Restaurant at Hungerford Hill, Pokolbin (Restaurant Caterer, Wine list, Regional wine list) and Hunter Valley Gardens (Caterer of the Year, Wedding Caterer in a Function Centre, Function Centre Caterer).
As the only local advocacy group for Chefs, apprentices, restaurateurs and fresh produce suppliers in the region, the Hunter Chefs are focussed on promoting the Hunter Region as a premier location for creative and diverse food. 
If you or your business is interested in becoming a member of the Hunter Chefs & Co, please contact Bradley Teale on 4998 4666

TASTE SOMEONE ELSE'S REGIONAL FOOD!

Explore Italy’s tastiest regions with ‘Gusto’ 2007 - A festival of gastronomic diversity, hosted by Australia’s premier Italian chefs, providores and importers. To be held at Sydney Seafood School, Sydney Fish Market, on Sunday 26 August from 10am to 5pm. Hosted by the Council of Italian Restaurants in Australia (CIRA), the all day festival is a must for pleasure seeking food lovers, boasting Australia’s widest selection of top-quality Italian food, wine and traditional cookery know-how and featuring cooking demonstrations, masterclasses, delectable tasting sessions, kids’ cooking classes and guided wine tastings; the festival explores Italy’s diverse regional gastronomy through those in the know. ‘Gusto’ Festival entry and ‘Delizie d’Inverno’ dinner should be pre-booked through Sydney Seafood School on 02 9004 1111 or by email to sss@sydneyfishmarket.com.au.  The full program can be viewed at www.cira.com.au

will run from 10-12 August 2007 at Rosehill Racecourse.  DSRD is a major sponsor of this event, which aims to promote employment, business and investment opportunities in regional NSW. Seminars include Lean Manufacturing, and advice on how to start, manage and grow a successful Home Based Business in Regional NSW.More details from Alexandra Luscombe, Department of State and Regional Development, 02  9338 6974 
Alexandra.Luscombe@business.nsw.gov.au Entry to the Expo and the Seminars is free.   For more information visit www.countryweek.com.au/nsw.html

AZTEC CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL

Once again this year’s Latrobe Chocolate winterfest activities will based around chocolate, with the Aztec Chocolate Festival being the highlight. The Chocolate Winterfest will be held over the weekend of the 8th and 9th July 2006.  However the “House of Anvers” Aztec Chocolate Festival will be held on Sunday only from 10am to 4pm at House of Anvers, 9025 Bass Hwy Latrobe Tasmania. Tasmanian renowned chef Nigel Squibb from Tasfresh cooking up an Aztec storm, lucky door prizes, bands, chocolate sculptures, a chocolate wheel, wine, cheese and specialty Belgian beer tastings by leading beer expert Willie Simpson will combine to make this a fun day.  For more information on the Winterfest weekend see www.chocolatewinterfest.com.au,  www.anvers-chocolate.com.au  or phone: 03 64262958

SINGING THE BLUES

The Australian Blueberry industry is gearing up for another successful year. Over the past few years the Australian Blueberry industry has become the world’s leading producer of quality blueberries. Last year the Australian Blueberry industry produced roughly 2300 tones of blueberries, with 30 percent going to international markets. Currently there are two significant blueberry breeding programs in Victoria and NSW. These projects continue to lead the way for the future of blueberries, making Australian fruit sought after world wide.The Australian Blueberry industry is situated in the South Eastern States of Australia, including farms in NSW, Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia and South-East Queensland. Production timing varies from state-to-state with the bulk of blueberries available during October to February. 
For more information:www.abga.com.au/welcome.htm

FINE FOOD FINER THAN EVER

This year for the first time Fine Food will fill all six halls of the Sydney Convention & Exhibition Centre plus three additional halls of Wharf 8. In all there will be over 1,000 exhibitors, including over 220 international exhibitors from 20 countries showcasing the latest food, drink and equipment to an estimated 30,000 trade buyers. This important exhibition has grown significantly every year since it was first staged in 1987. 
Some of the features at Fine Food this year include the Sydney Culinary Challenge where we will see the best chefs in Australia competing against each other, Bakeskills Australia where teams of apprentice bakers from each State compete in a live bakery on the show floor, the Official Great Aussie Meat Pie Competition, The Best Of The Best Pizza competition, plus much more
Entry is restricted to persons working in the food industry. Visitors can obtain further details and pre-register at www.finefood.com.au 
Fine Food will run at the Sydney Convention & Exhibition Centre from Monday 24th to Thursday 27th September 2007. Opening hours are Monday 10am – 6pm, Tuesday 12noon - 9pm (late night), Wednesday and Thursday 10am – 5 pm.

ORGANIC FEASTS

The Queensland Gold Coast hinterland's Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat has created a specialty retreat program entitled, ‘A Feast of Nutrition’. The four-day fully inclusive program commences on Sunday 12 August and Sunday 11 November and features seminars led by Dr Libby Ellis  and organic cooking demonstrations conducted by the Gwinganna chefs. Phone 1800 219 272 or visit www.gwinganna.com for more details.   

MORE FROM ORANGE

A new generation of chefs from what is rapidly becoming the gourmet capital of New South Wales, will be featured at the sixth annual ‘Taste Orange for MS’ food and wine event at the Country Embassy, Level 47, 19 Martin Place Sydney, on Monday 23 July from 7-10.30pm. With Michael Manners now closing his famous Selkirk’s restaurant in Orange, he will take on the role of event ambassador and introduce the next generation of young chefs from the region:

• Tony Worland of Tonic in Millthorpe
• Scott Want of Union Bank, in Orange
• Shaun Arantz of the The Old Schoolhouse at Mayfield Vineyard
• Anna Wong of Neila’s in Cowra

Each of the chefs will present a course of one of his or her signature dishes and the food will be matched with the region's finest wine by Peter Bourne - "The Wineman".
The ‘Taste Orange for MS’ gourmet event is made possible by the support of Orange City Council. The purpose of the dinner is to showcase the culinary delights of the area, to encourage Sydneysiders to visit Orange and to raise funds to support people with multiple sclerosis (MS).
Tickets are $145 for the ‘Taste Orange for MS’ dinner and are available from Maggi on (02) 9411 4522 or mmorgan@mssociety.com.au

BONDI MEETS THE BUSH

The Orange Region is coming to Bondi from, September 10 -16, 2007. The full program of activities including dinners, tastings and workshops will be updated on the Taste Orange website over the following weeks. Taste Orange will be held Sunday on September 16 at the Bondi Pavilion and will features a wide range of wine and food stalls, the Taste Orange Long Lunch Table, music, and a full program of wine and food demonstrations and tastings. For further information contact: Kim Currie – Executive Officer, Brand Orange,  02 6360 1990 or  0407 720 472, or  info@winesoforange.com.au

Hurry to participate in the best of Bendigo

On Sunday June 24th, 2007 , four of Bendigo's best eateries will be your indulgence in just one afternoon.  You will be blown away by each venue's award winning cuisine, strolling along the Bendigo streetscapes between each course to fine the next visual & edible delight! 
Lunch begins at The Bridge Bendigo, moving down Bridge Street to Bazzani ITALIANO.  Your trip continues along Pall Mall to GPO, finishing at Wine Bank on View.
The Bridge, Bazzani & GPO each will serve 2 specialty shared courses, finishing with premium cheeses at Wine Bank.  A glass of wine will be served on arrival at each venue, with other beverage choices available for purchase as required. 
Tickets are $86.00 each – 7 courses & 4 glasses of wine-payable in full by June 18th to confirm your seat at this event.

Email Kathie Bolitho at Bazzani Italiano

Sally and Gordon have been visiting Western Australia for two weeks, researching this site. That's why things have been fairly quiet on this page for a fortnight. Some great things are happening in the West. Watch out for a report soon as we get back up to speed - S&G

2007 Inland NSW Tourism Awards

The 2007 Inland NSW Tourism Awards will be held in Wentworth in Outback NSW. These awards celebrate tourism businesses in Outback NSW, New England North West, Central NSW and the Riverina.
More information: www.inlandtourismawards.com.au

Food & wine trends

Food and wine tourism represents a significant growth area in the Australian tourism industry with our myriad of high quality food and wine experiences available. In 2006 one in seven travellers or 14 per cent of international visitors visited a winery during their stay, up from 10 per cent in 2000. 

Australian Tourism Awards new online applications

The Qantas Australian Tourism Awards and the NSW Tourism Awards have introduced an online awards process for two categories - Category 1 - Major Tourist Attractions and Category 15 - Tourism Education and Training. Entrants can go to www.australiantourismawards.com.au/nsw and register their details, nominate and pay, and complete their submission. No printed submissions will be accepted for either of these categories. More categories will be going online in 2008. All entrants are encouraged to browse the site and get familiar with the new process. June will be the last chance for operators to attend a workshop about the changes for this year including submitting online. The schedule is: Sydney - 4 June and 20 June, Moruya - 5 June, Port Stephens - 5 June, Wollongong – 7 June and Blue Mountains - 19 June.

For more information about entries or the workshops contact NSW Tourism Awards Coordinator, Shan Lawson at awards@ticnsw.com.au

Southern Highlands on show at Parliament House

Food and wine from the Southern Highlands region will be featured in a week-long showcase at NSW Parliament House in June. The showcase, presented by Southern Highlands Food and Wine, in partnership with the Department of State and Regional Development, the Department of Primary Industries and Tourism NSW, will be launched on Monday, 18 June by Tony Kelly, Minister for Regional Development. The promotion will give Sydney providores, chefs, restaurateurs, food and beverage managers, retailers and media the opportunity to build business relationships with around 26 participating suppliers from the region, and to sample a selection of the freshest seasonal produce and finest gourmet foods from the region. The food will be accompanied by boutique beers and premium, cool climate wines. Producers on show include Highlands Heritage Pork, Tennessee Orchards, Alpine Berry Farm and Small Cow Farm. The region's gourmet produc e and wine will then be featured on the Parliament House dining room menu for the rest of the week.

COMING UP

• UnWINED in the Riverina, 8-11 June Griffith's wineries offer a weekend of wine, food and entertainment over two days. Activities include tutored tastings, cooking demonstrations, wine tastings, food and music. www.unwined-riverina.com 

Have a beer with the locals

Jovial atmospheres, wide verandahs and frosty beers are plentiful in Queensland’s Outback. And now, with the new Great Outback Queensland Pubs guide, it’s even easier to find your perfect drinking hole. 
The guide includes a fantastic selection of watering holes that should not be missed when travelling through Queensland. Drink a toast to bush poet Banjo Paterson at the North Gregory Hotel in Winton where Australia’s unofficial anthem, Waltzing Matilda, was first performed. Or head to Nindigully Pub for a classic Outback-style pub experience with riverside fishing right out front! To get your hands on a free copy of the guide visit www.outbackholidays.info 

SLOW DOWN

The coastal town of Goolwa south of Adelaide is the first Cittaslow to be proclaimed outside of Europe. This happened in March 2007 and was closely followed by Katoomba in the Blue Mountains of NSW. These towns are now included in a select group of towns which have been identified in 50 countries. While Cittaslow towns and cities (no more than 50,000 population) developed from the SlowFood movement, there is much more involved. The Cittaslow manifesto defines them as 'towns where people are still curious about times pasts, rich in theatres, squares, cafes, workshops, restaurants and spiritual places....where people are still aware of the slow passing of the seasons, marked by genuine products, respecting tastes, health and spontaneous customs.' More details: www.cittaslow.net

‘Life’s a dish’ in 12 Bendigo restaurants

‘Life’s a Dish’ is a novel idea to tempt lovers of fine regional food and wine to dine at one or more of 12 premier Bendigo restaurants and collect a souvenir plate to remind them of the experience.
The inspiration came from the Buon Ricordo, a program that began in 1964 in Northern Italy as a way to preserve traditional recipes and cooking techniques. Today the movement features more than 110 restaurants across Italy.
‘Life’s a Dish’ is a partnership between 12 Bendigo restaurants, the City of Greater Bendigo and Bendigo Pottery - Australia’s oldest working pottery – to highlight Bendigo as an emerging food destination. For more information and images contact Aileen Walsh on 0407 706 769.

Thredbo Valley Distillery - Australia’s only schnapps distillery

If you’re travelling from Canberra to the snowy mountains, there’s one place that’s definitely worth a stop. Australia’s only schnapps distillery, the Thredbo Valley Distillery is home of Wild Brumby Schnapps and is located along The Alpine Way in the picturesque Thredbo Valley. You can find this unique boutique distillery on a gorgeous rural property, and as the sheep graze outside you can head inside and warm up with a hit of purely Australian schnapps and liqueurs. Delicious flavours on offer include pink lady apple, williams pear, raspberry, mango and a pear and honey blend. Owner Brad Spalding also produces several premium schnapps varieties with a much higher alcohol content including premium apricot and apple flavours. Brad also bottles and sells his own Grappa and has just released an aniseed myrtle vodka. The 20 acre property features a cellar door, cafe, art gallery and studio, a granite sculpture walk and working raspberry farm.

Murrumbateman Moving Feast returns

Last year’s inaugural Murrumbateman (NSW) Moving Feast was so popular that it is being held again. On the last weekend in September, a dozen wineries will offer fine local food matched with premium wines. Participants can attend the Murrumbateman Cool Climate Wine Show tasting, win prizes and have the chance to taste and buy nationally acclaimed wines. For $15, they will receive a souvenir glass with wine and a serve of food at each winery they visit. Part of the Canberra District wine region, the Murrumbateman area is recognised for outstanding Riesling and Shiraz Viognier wines. Sparkling Shiraz, Cabernet sauvignon, Chardonnay and botrytis whites are some of the other fine wines produced by small family wineries.

New Winter Night Markets

New to Canberra’s winter calendar this year are the special Winter Night Markets. Commonwealth Place on the edge of Lake Burley Griffin will come alive on three mid-winter evenings in late August with entertainment to warm the body and soul. Browse for gifts at the funky night markets which will feature crafts, jewellery and home wares, and warm up with delicious gourmet food and wines, local produce, mulled wine, coffee, curry and roasted chestnuts. Reminiscent of a European winter market, the night markets will be held at Commonwealth Place over three evenings in August and will also include live entertainment. The markets will be held on Thursday 23, Friday 24 and Saturday 25 August, open 5.30–9.30pm.

Throw another Kakadu plum on the Barbie

An Australian first, a web-based food TV show accessible world-wide will see the dream for entrepreneur, celebrity chef and scientist, Vic Cherikoff come true. This month, Vic and his business partner and fellow celebrity chef, Benjamin Christie launched their web-based food television channel on Joost, the world’s first broadcast-quality internet TV service (www.joost.com).“There are predictions Joost will conservatively attract 25 million viewers by the end of the year and rise to over 100 million in short order, making it bigger than the Food Network in the USA,” Vic said. “The platform is still in beta test mode but we welcome requests to join the buzz by going to our website (www.australianfoodtv.com) and registering for an invitation. You’ll then be able to watch our shows along with dozens of other channels all growing in number by the day.

CONGRATULATIONS ALL!

The International Taste & Quality Institute (iTQi) held its annual Awards Ceremony on June 1 in Brussels to officially celebrate superior tasting foods and drinks from around the world submitted to its European Juries of Chefs and Sommeliers. This prestigious event was attended by members of the Government, diplomats, officials and the international Press. Superior Taste Award were granted in 2007 to the following Australian companies:

 Rylstone Olive Press for the product Cudgegong Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Contact: Mrs. Jayne Bentivoglio, Owner/Manager: +61 2 6379 1485; jbenti@bigpond.com.au

Safcol Australia Pty Ltd for the product Safcol Tuna in Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Contact: Mr. Lokesh Sharma, Marketing Manager: +61 2 8755 1006; lsharma@safcol.com.au; www.safcol.com.au.

Tamborine Mountain Distillery for the products Apricot Brandy liqueur, Choc N chilli Liqueur and Moulin rooz Absinthe
Contact: Mr. Michael Ward, Managing Director: +61 7 5545 3452; info@tamborinemountaindistillery.com; www.tamborinemountaindistillery.com.

Organic milk wins gold at Sydney Royal Show 

South Coast Dairy, a subsidiary of the Berry (NSW) Rural Co-operative Society Ltd, was awarded a gold and three silver medals at this year's Sydney Royal Show dairy produce awards. The gold medal milk was an organic light product scoring 19 out of a possible 20 points and named best milk of the show. South Coast Dairy is supplied by milk processors Country Valley & Highland Organics. The producers of the milk are dairy farmers EL & TL Smillie. Both operations are certified organic through ACO.

HOT STUFF

Take note, the Sawtell Chilli festival is on again at Coffs Harbour on July 7th from 10.30am to 4pm. All the usual hot items will be there from places such as Byron Bay Chilli  Company, Seatonfire Chilli, Redback Chilli and many more. A regional cuisine degustation dinner is planned for July 6th. More details from Julia on 0412 005 537, or www.sawtellnsw.com.au/chilli07

CONGRATULATIONS!

Esca Bimbadgen, the acclaimed restaurant located within Bimbadgen Estate winery in New South Wales' Hunter Valley, has been named ‘Best Winery Restaurant’ and ‘Best Tourism Restaurant’ in the Hunter Restaurant and Catering Awards for 2007 at a gala dinner in Newcastle on 28 May 2007. Executive Chef Bradley Teale has been at the helm of the Esca Bimbadgen kitchen since it opened and manages the Modern Australian menu design, taking great care in maintaining the integrity of the origins/flavours of a dish, and prides itself in utilising produce that is sourced locally or grown on the estate including lemons, figs, quinces and fresh herbs.This latest award adds to a long list, bringing the total to 11 awards of excellence over the past 5 years, in addition to major industry awards including regional tourism awards and a distinction at the NSW Tourism Awards held last November. www.bimbadgen.com.au

Tastes of the Gold Coast and Organic Expo 2007 

During August, the Gold Coast is host to a wonderful festival showcasing some of the many highlights of the area and its produce. Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat (www.gwinganna.com) is excited to be taking part this year with an organic cooking demonstration featuring great recipes, gifts and special offers. Keep an eye on our website for more details or visit www.tastesofgoldcoast.com.au 
Gwinganna will also be visiting Melbourne for the annual Organic Expo from 7-9 September. Visit www.organicexpo.com.au or drop in and say hello.

BANK STATEMENT

Belgravia at Union Bank's June newsletter is just out and they report that people can meet the chef, Scott Want, at this month’s Orange Farmers’ Market on  Saturday, June 9. Scott will be cooking from 9. 30- 10. 30am, and of course there’ ll be tastings on offer. For more information about Orange’ s fantastic market, (held on the second Saturday each month) visit: www.unionbank.com.au

The 2007 Australian Gourmet Traveller Travel Awards have been announced:

CONGRATULATIONS TO:

Best Five-Star Hotel: The Observatory, Sydney
Best Resort: Hayman, QLD 
Best Boutique Hotel: The Islington, TAS
Best Spa/ Health Retreat: The Golden Door, Elysia, NSW 
Best Outback Accommodation: Longitude 131°, NT
Best Eco-Tourism: Maria Island Walk, TAS
Best Destination Winery: Tarrawarra Estate, VIC 
Best Indigenous Tourism: Anangu Tours, NT 
Best Adventure Tourism: Orion Expedition Cruises Ends.

QUEENSLAND DOINGS

2007 Restaurant & Catering Awards heat up Queensland
The hospitality industry’s most prestigious and largest awards program in Queensland celebrates the culinary diversity and excellence of restaurants and venues across six regions. The 2007 Awards for Excellence begins with the Darling Downs Regional Awards on 19 June. The North Queensland Regional Awards will be held in Townsville on 16 July, followed by Gold Coast Regional Awards at Southport on 23 July. Brisbane will celebrate its regional awards on 30 July and Far North Queensland will have its awards in Cairns on 13 August. The Sunshine Coast Region will combine the awards event with a Chef’s Showcase Dinner highlighting some of the hottest talent on the coast at the Ramada Hotel on 27 August. 
Winners from each region will compete in the Restaurant & Catering Queensland HOSTPLUS State Awards for Excellence in Brisbane on 17 September, followed by the National Awards for Excellence in Adelaide on 29 October. 
More information: James Visser Restaurant & Catering Queensland
Ph: +61 7 3360 8888, email: jvisser@rcq.org.au 

Bunnyconnellen opens cellar door 
Local award winning olive producer and exporter Bunnyconnellen, will open its doors as a weekend cellar door with a celebration on Sunday 3 June.
Established in 1996, the 12 acre olive grove and vineyard will offer visitors fine food and wine and the sights and aromas of a working olive grove and vineyard. Musical entertainment will also be provided. Bunnyconnellen is 45 minutes from Toowoomba near Crows Nest and the purveyor of what owners Peter and Janie Simmonds like to call ‘convivial pleasures’ (adjective- fond of feasting, drinking and merry company; jovial). More information: Peter and Janie Simmonds Ph: +61 7 4697 9555  www.bunnyconnellen.com.au  email: bunnyconnellen@bigpond.com

Rosalie Village Cheese Carnivàle
In only its second year, the Brisbane Cheese Awards and Carnivàle on 9 and 10 June, is already reputed as the largest and most successful cheese festival in Australia.
Festival president Norris Lewis says up to 60 of Australia’s 65 serious cheese producers will take part in the Primary Industries’ Brisbane Cheese Awards 2007 on Saturday 9 June. At the Rosalie Village Cheese Carnivàle on Sunday 10 June, cheese producers will offer free cheese tastings, cheese master classes and cooking with cheese demonstrations. There’ll be 30 cheese stalls where people can taste cheese and buy cheese to take home, as well as wine booths and the 12 cafes and restaurants in Rosalie Village will provide a range of food tastes from pizza to tapas and Thai.
The streets of Rosalie Village at Paddington will be closed for this multi-cultural Brazilian-themed event which is expected to attract a crowd of more than 8000 to enjoy and take part in the fun and festivities.
More information: www.rosalievillagefestival.com

New Cairns visitor experience
The Australian Coffee Centre at Mareeba and Down Under Tours has launched a new visitor experience. The tour will allow visitors to travel in luxury coaches on an itinerary that includes Kuranda village, Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and Kuranda Scenic Railway. The new day tour has been developed due a demand for an experience which combines the three iconic attractions with a luxury transfer option. Skybury CEO Ian MacLaughlin said the day tour is especially designed for visitors who enjoy the convenience of a coach experience, with additional appeal to inbound and wholesale operators overseas. 
More information: Paul Fagg, Skybury Ph:+61 7 4093 2194   paulf@skybury.com.au 
www.downundertours.com

River House meets its 50km radius
River House Restaurant will host two 50km radius dinners featuring produce grown within 50km of Noosa on 13 and 14 June. Five courses will be matched wines from the prestigious Mount Langi Ghiran, Yering Station and Parker Coonawarra Estate.
“Absolutely everything used in the kitchen over the two nights will be local, nothing will have spent days being transported or kept in storage. The produce quality will be secondary to none. The event provides the opportunity for growers to socialise with customers whilst all being a part of celebrating quality local produce. It is all about bringing the paddock to the plate,” said David Rayner.  Ph: +61 7 54497441 
info@riverhouserestaurant.com.au

WHAT'S ON

Glengallan Seasonal Farmers Markets (3 June) 
Seasonal farmers markets held on the first Sunday of each season at Glengallan Homestead and Heritage Centre. Fresh food right where it is grown, 8am to 1pm, New England Highway, 15km north of Warwick.
More information: +61 7 4667 3866 glengallan@flexi.net.au 

Great Barrier Feast on Hamilton Island (8 to 11 June)
Some of Australia’s most acclaimed chefs and winemakers will share their secrets at the annual Great Barrier Feast on Hamilton Island over the Queen’s Birthday Long Weekend. The weekend event will be hosted by food experts Curtis Stone (Surfing the Menu) and celebrity chef pals, Tobie Puttock of Restaurant Fifteen and Naked Chef, Jimmy Shu from the internationally recognised Hanuman restaurants and Frank Camorroa, from Melbourne’s Mo Vida. www.hamiltonisland.com.au or 13REEF (137333).

Olivado Moreton Bay Seafood Festival (9 - 10 June)
Relax and unwind, enjoy the sea air and feast on succulent seafood and wine at the Olivado Moreton Bay Seafood Festival 2007 at the Raby Bay Foreshore Park, Cleveland / Raby Bay on the Queen’s Birthday Long Weekend. Food, cooking, celebrity chefs, music and all kinds of activities including mud crab tying, oyster shucking and mud crab racing. Watch the experts as they vie for the title of best mud crab wrangler and oyster shucker, then cheer on your favourite in the mud crab races! 
More information: www.moretonbayseafoodfestival.com.au

A la Carte in the Park (17 June)
The Gold Coast’s premier food and wine event, A La Carte in the Park turns 20 this year! The multi-cultural cuisine on offer ranges from Australian, Spanish, Japanese, Chinese, Thai, Indian, Mexican, Italian and Vietnamese to seafood, steak and pancake restaurants. A free event with live bands, face painting, clowns and entertainment featuring the fabulous wines of the Gold Coast at Anzac Park, Southport.
More information: +61 7 5526 7833, email: goldcoast@rcq.org.au

Chefs in the North Dinner (5 July)
A six-course degustation menu prepared by chefs of national renown is the black-tie prelude to the opening of the world class Australian Festival of Chamber Music in Townsville from 6 to 15 July. A spectacular culinary event where fine food, wine and music merge seamlessly under a stunning marquee on the grassy lawns of Jupiters Townsville. More information: www.afcm.com.au
Media contact: Kath Rose, Ph:+61 7 3357 9054  kath@kathrose.com

Christmas in Winter (16 July)
Enjoy a fire-warmed Christmas night in the eclectic Thunderbolt Farm restaurant, Stanthorpe. Outside mercury can drop to zero or less, but inside the fire is toasty warm. Christmas carols fill the air and the Christmas tree and decorations complete the experience. More information: Keith & Claudia Beverley +61 7 4683 5117
www.thunderboltfarm.com.au 

A la carte on the beach (26 August) 
Restaurant & Catering Queensland, Gold Coast Branch presents this wine and food festival by the beautiful beach at Coolangatta to showcase the multi-cultural cuisine and local produce that is available on the Gold Coast. The multi-cultural cuisine on offer ranges from Australian, Spanish, Japanese, Chinese, Thai, Indian, Mexican, Italian, Mediterranean, to Seafood, Steak and Pancake Restaurants. Queen Elizabeth Park, Coolangatta.
More information: +61 7 5526 7833 goldcoast@rcq.org.au

2008 Regional Flagship Events Program open for entries

Tourism NSW is encouraging events organisers in regional NSW to submit expressions of interest for the 2008 Regional Flagship Events Program. NSW Minister for Tourism, Matt Brown announced that under this program annual one-off grants of $10,000 and funding of $60,000 over three years were available to assist organisers with marketing and promoting their event to a wider audience. Regional events starting between 1 January and 31 December 2008 are eligible for the grants. Events funded under this program in previous years have included the NSW Tourism Award-winning Hunter Valley Steamfest, and the highly successful Parkes Elvis Festival. Information on the Regional Flagship Events Program is available at www.tourism.nsw.gov.au/corporate or from the Regional Flagship Event C oordinator on (02) 9931 1506.

CHEERS FOR CHEESE 

From 21 May to 18 November 2007, Bega Cheese www.begacheese.com.au will donate ten cents from every block of Bega Cheese sold to provide much needed financial support to drought stricken communities around Australia. Bega Cheese, located in the Bega Valley, NSW, is owned and operated by 100 local dairy farmers. It has been a part of the Australian landscape since 1899 and is a company that is passionate about Australian farming. Like Australian farmers across the country, Bega Cheese and its dairy farmers have experienced the devastating hardship that comes with drought. But with hardship comes the amazing ability for rural communities to unite and lend a hand. The funds will be distributed nationally by the Country Women’s Association of Australia (CWAA) – to families and communities affected by drought. Bega Cheese expects to raise in excess of Au$600,000 and will make an advance donation of Au$100,000 to expedite the assistance to the community.If you know of other companies making a difference to drought-affected communities, please let us know.

Star City to host 2007 NSW Tourism Awards

NSW Minister for Tourism, Matt Brown has announced that Star City’s Grand Harbour Ballroom will be the backdrop for this year’s NSW Tourism Awards on Thursday 15 November. Minister Brown said Star City was considered to be the most competitive venue for service, style, accessibility, entertainment options, accommodation and event costs. Nominations for the 2007 NSW Tourism Awards close on 31 July 2007 and entries close at 5pm, 4 September 2007. The finalists will be revealed in October. For more information about entering the awards, contact Shan Lawson at awards@ticnsw.com.au  

Upcoming Tourism Events

2007 South Coast Tourism Awards
The 2007 South Coast Tourism Awards will be held at the Catalina Country Club in Batemans Bay on Wednesday 27 June. The Awards are the main event for tourism on the South Coast of NSW, recognising excellence in tourism carried out by South Coast tourism businesses and organisations.
More information: www.scpromotions.com.au 

2007 Inland NSW Tourism Awards
The 2007 Inland NSW Tourism Awards will be held in Wentworth in Outback NSW. These awards celebrate tourism businesses in Outback NSW, New England North West, Central NSW and the Riverina.
More information: www.inlandtourismawards.com.au

BUDERIM BEER

Buderim Ginger’s all-new and long-awaited, premium Ginger Beer with a genuine ginger taste has just been released. It contains no artificial flavours or colours – just refreshing real ginger. Listed as an official icon by the National Trust of Queensland, Buderim Ginger represents an important part of the state’s history winning a lasting place in Queensland’s cultural identity. Buderim Ginger’s latest creation is sure to tempt the tastebuds of the nation.

2007 HM AWARDS    

Nominations for the 2007 HM Awards for Hotel & Accommodation Excellence are now open and are available online, via a new, dedicated website, www.hmawards.com.au  The Awards are open to staff and properties across Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific, and nominations close at 5pm on Wednesday 20th June, 2007. Thirty-eight HM Awards will be awarded in 2007 and recognise excellence over a range of categories, from people and departments to properties and chains.

MURRAY'S CRAFT BEER WINS AT AUSTRALIAN INTERNATIONAL BEER AWARDS   

Murray’s Craft Brewing Co (located at The Pub With No Beer – work THAT one out!) has won Silver medals for both its entrants in this year’s Australian International Beer Awards (AIBA) with Murray’s Nirvana Pale Ale and Murray’s Sassy Blonde.The AIBA is Australia’s most prestigious beer event and the second largest of its type in the world. A renowned barometer of diversity in beer brewing across the world, the 2007 event attracted 941 beers from a record 189 exhibitors across 39 countries. Both beers are available on tap at The Pub With No Beer in Taylors Arm, north coast NSW, and have recently been bottled for sale in selected retailers, hotels and restaurants in NSW, Newcastle, the NSW North Coast and most recently Melbourne. www.murraysbrewingco.com.au 

DIARY NOTE

The Shoalhaven Coast Winter Wine Weekend is scheduled for  June 9th - 11th. More news after the launch party will be held on  June 1st at Coolangatta Estate but knowing that the Festival Patron is local treasure and internationally recognised cooking school prinicipal, Elise Pascoe, you can be sure that the wine will be well-matched with sumptuous local food. Details of Cellar door activities and opening hours for participating wineries can be found at www.shoalhavencoast.com.au or phone 1300 662 808 (Shoalhaven Visitors Centre).

UPCOMING SYDNEY FOOD EVENTS

• Sydney Italian Festival:
22 May – 11 June www.sydneyitalianfestival.com.au
• Sydney Writers' Festival (this year is emphasising  food):
28 May – 3 June www.swf.org.au  
• Manly Food and Wine Festival:
2 – 3 June www.manly.nsw.gov.a u/foodandwine
• The Rocks Aroma Coffee Festival:
22 July www.therocks.com.au  

CAMEMBERT IN ORANGE

“MONSIEUR CAMEMBERT”, the triple ARIA award winning Gypsy Rock ensemble will be performing some of their deliciously wicked and critically acclaimed repertoire at Borrodell on the Mount (P 59), the vineyard and cellar door in the Towac valley, near Orange, NSW,  from 7pm on Saturday 12 May. Their European and ethically influenced music will inspire and enliven all those in attendance, with a feast of frivolity, fine wine and food!
 “Borrodell on the Mount”, Lake Canobolas Road, Orange, NSW, $90 includes music and dinner served from the Sisters Rock Restaurant. Bookings essential – 02 6365 3425, www.borrodell.com.au

CONGRATULATIONS!!

The world's smallest 'Pot Distillery' Tamborine Mountain Distillery's (p. 169) in Queensland recently took on the biggest world distillers and and beat them, winning GOLD at the recent World Spirits Competition held Austria!  Jubilant owner, Michael Ward says ‘We’ve won Gold with our Absinthe! Known commercially as Moulin Rooz'.  Distiller, Alla Ward distilled individual botanicals (including the bitter wormwood) to make up the complex and aromatic pastis style bitters to create this high 60% ALC.VOL of liquid gold. This win was added to by more wonderful achievements of another gold medal received for their Australian Herbal Liqueur and a silver medal for the 2 Rooz Vodka Neutral. For more information contact Michael Ward 07 5545 3452 or www.tamborinemountaindistillery.com  or info@tamborinemountaindistillery.com

Walkabout the wineries in Rutherglen

Over the Queenís Birthday long weekend, head to the north-east of Victoria for the annual four-day† Rutherglen Winery Walkabout festival and†spend up to three days among the 20 participating Rutherglen wineries, sampling the unique range of varietals on tasting at each winery.†Besides tasting delicious wine, the festival also features live music and local produce markets tutored wine tastings, great food and a series of unique breakfasts and dinners. Rutherglen is one of Australiaís oldest wine-growing districts, renowned for producing robust red wines that cellar well for many years and crisp, modern-style whites, but is best known for its superb fortified wines, especially muscats. Return for the Winery Walkabout in June, the 10-day Tastes of Rutherglen Gourmet Getaway in March and the Rutherglen Tour de Muscat cycling weekend in November.†For more information on the Rutherglen Winery Walkabout Weekend and accommodation options, phone the Walkabout Event Hotline on 1300 787 929 or visit www.rutherglenvic.com.au

Merlo takes the language of coffee to regional Queensland†

This May,†Merlo Coffee, the iconic Queensland coffee house establshed in 1996, is bringing their popular Coffee Appreciation Sessions to Mackay, Townsville and Rockhampton.†Coffee Appreciation Sessions are free, but bookings are essential.

Townsville
Monday 14 May, 6.30pm
CÈst Si Bon, 48 Gregory St, North Ward, Townsville
Ph: 07 4772 5828

Mackay
Thursday 17 May, 7.30am
Coral Cay Resort, 16-18 Nebo Road, Mackay
Ph: 07 4957 7677

Rockhampton
Friday 18 May, 5.30pm
The Coffee House, 51 Williams St, Rockhamptom
Ph: 07 4927 5722

Merlo Coffee was established by Brisbane boy Dean Merlo and heralded†the beginning of the coffee revolution in Queensland. Merlo is now one of the countryís leading espresso coffee companies with two coffee factories and five Italian espresso bars inspired Bar Merlo stores throughout Brisbane.
More information: www.merlo.com.au. (Advise:Kath Rose. kath@kathrose.com)

Sample Mornington Peninsula’s finest drops

The Mornington Peninsula, a 90 minute drive from Melbourne, has more vineyards per kilometre than anywhere else in Australia – 174 vineyards at last count. Sample its specialities – pinot noir and chardonnay – or perhaps the local pinot gris, which is also winning acclaim – at the annual Winter Wine Weekend, from 9 – 12 June. Every year, the Mornington Peninsula Cellar Doors make visitors especially welcome over the Queen’s Birthday long weekend. Christened Winter Wine Weekend, cellar doors across the Peninsula will be abuzz with their freshly bottled 2006 vintage pinots and chardonnays alongside other very individual varieties, blends and styles. Over 200 wines from 50 wineries will be on show at the opening event in Red Hill – the Winter Wine Festival - on Saturday 9 June. Taste wines and listen and learn  of the region's key winemakers at free seminars during the day, and over the weekend also enjoy a gourmet frankfurt, steaming paella, or emu snag. For more information about any events as part of this great occasion, phone the Mornington Peninsula Tourism Office on (03) 5989 2377. Full program or brochure available at www.visitmorningtonpeninsula.org
 For further details on Winter Wine Weekend call 03 5989 2377 or visit www.mpva.com.au

OTHER UPCOMING FOOD & WINE SHOWS

The Good Food & Wine Show
Melbourne Exhibition Centre
1-3 June 2007
www.goodfoodshow.com.au

The Good Food & Wine Show
Sydney Convention
& Exhibition Centre
15-17 June 2007
www.goodfoodshow.com.au

WA Wine & Food Festival
Perth Exhibition
Convention Centre
6-8 July 2007
www.wineandfood.com.au

Security Expo
Sydney Convention
& Exhibition Centre
10-12 July 2007
www.securityexpo.com.au

Retail Expo
Melbourne Exhibition Centre
14-16 August 2007
www.retailexpo.com.au

Fine Food & Hotel Australia
Sydney Convention
& Exhibition Centre
24-27 September 2007
www.finefood.com.au

Wine & Spirits Australia
Wharf 8, Darling Harbour
24-26 September 2007
www.wineandspirits.com.au

The Good Food & Wine Show
Brisbane Convention Centre
9-11 November 2007
www.goodfoodshow.com.au

Fine Food & Hospitality
Queensland
Brisbane Convention Centre
9-11 March 2008
www.foodqueensland.com.au

Keep this Date alive!

Live Green presented by Smeaton Hackett Events in conjunction with the City of Sydney will be held from 10am to 4pm, 25 August 2007, Victoria Park, Camperdown, NSW, and will feature organic & local produce stalls, an organic bar and demonstration kitchen featuring renowned chef and author Kylie Kwong, a City of Sydney Precinct – presenting the city’s services and plans for a greener future, practical workshops and seminars and entertainment. For more information

To book stalls: seamus@shevents.com.au 

TASTINGS AT THE TOP

Voyages Cradle Mountain Lodge will play host to Tastings at the Top  - Tasmania’s tastiest and deliciously indulgent food and wine event – from June 23 to 26 this year. Food consultant Helen Waterworth and Peter Bourne, otherwise known as Sydney’s Wine Man, will take guests on a mouth-watering culinary journey.
Producers displaying their wares this year include boutique cheese makers Heidi Farm, Elgaar Farm and Tasmanian Highland Cheese, inland salmon farm 41 Degrees South and Springfield Deer Farm, in addition to a host of emerging specialty producers. Top quality wines includeTamar Ridge, Devil’s Corner, Pirie Estate and Hardy’s Bay of Fires. For bookings contact Voyages Hotels and Resorts on:1300 134 044
Cradle Mountain Lodge: +61(0)3 6492 1303
Email: travel@voyages.com.au 
Web: www.cradlemountainlodge.com.au  

Tourism Risk Management Guide available

The APEC International Centre for Sustainable Tourism has developed a free Tourism Risk Management Guide that supports businesses and destinations to learn about mitigating and responding to the impact of crises. The Guide includes materials for training programs and information on developing a risk management strategy. It is available in CD-ROM and PDF formats. For more information, please contact ian@aicst.org

Queensland’s whispered secrets

Great Barrier Feast on Hamilton Island
8 to 11 June: Some of Australia’s most acclaimed chefs and winemakers will share their secrets at the annual Great Barrier Feast on Hamilton Island over the Queen’s Birthday Long Weekend. The weekend event will be hosted by food experts Curtis Stone (Surfing the Menu) and celebrity chef pals, Tobie Puttock of Restaurant Fifteen and Naked Chef, Jimmy Shu from the internationally recognised Hanuman restaurants and Frank Camorroa, from Melbourne’s Mo Vida. www.hamiltonisland.com.au or 13REEF (137333).
Media contact: Susan Boyd 0412 365 122

Olivado Moreton Bay Seafood Festival
9 - 10 June: Relax and unwind, enjoy the sea air and feast on succulent seafood and wine at the Olivado Moreton Bay Seafood Festival 2007 at the Raby Bay Foreshore Park, Cleveland / Raby Bay on the Queen’s Birthday Long Weekend. Food, cooking, celebrity chefs, music and all kinds of activities including mud crab tying, oyster shucking and mud crab racing. Watch the experts as they vie for the title of best mud crab wrangler and oyster shucker, then cheer on your favourite in the mud crab races! More information: www.moretonbayseafoodfestival.com.au Media contact: Janine Crawford +61 7 3286 5411