Taste Bundaberg Festival returns in August with a 10-day program jam-packed with the region’s freshest produce, celebrity chefs, markets, masterclasses, and tantalising dining experiences.
Launching Friday 30 August with ‘Fri-YAY’ at Jayteens Park Bargara, the program showcases the region’s vibrant food producers and chefs with over 30 events across the Bundaberg food bowl.
Highlights include the Taste Bundaberg Market at Alexandra Park on Saturday 7 September, The Secret Supper at a mystery location revealed only to diners on the night, and a gala dinner with celebrity chef Colin Fassnidge.
Unveiling the program at Alloway Farm Market, Bundaberg Regional Council Mayor Helen Blackburn said there was lots to look forward to in this year’s program.
“I’m thrilled to announce that this year the gala Saturday night event with Colin Fassnidge will be The Mayor’s Beach Ball,” Mayor Blackburn said.
“It promises to be a fantastic night of dinner and dancing under party lights in the Sperry tents, by the beach at Jayteens Park Bargara, with funds raised supporting the Mayor’s Christmas Appeal.”
In addition to the gala dinner, Mayor Blackburn said a new celebrity chef would add extra sparkle to this year’s program.
“Justine Schofield has joined the festival as a new Taste Ambassador, bringing with her a wealth of experience from her time on MasterChef and her popular show and books, Everyday Gourmet.
“Justine will be cooking with the region’s freshest produce on the Taste Bundaberg Market cooking stage, as well hosting a masterclass for amateur chefs looking to enhance their skills in the kitchen.”
Mayor Blackburn said the festival’s focus on the region’s growers and producers was a wonderful opportunity for everyone to support the local agricultural community.
“We have introduced the Taste Trail this year with an interactive map of over 20 growers, producers and chefs who are selling direct to the public from their farm stalls and shop fronts.
“We are so lucky to have an abundance of fresh produce in the region, and it’s important that the community support each other by buying local.”
Council’s Tourism, Airport and Information Technology Services portfolio spokesperson Councillor Steve Cooper said it was terrific to see new events and hosts join the program along with returning favourites.
“We’ve got some great new events this year including A Night on the Greens at Sandhills Sports Club, complete with barefoot bowls, and a wonderful seafood-focused night, Sunset Feast at Surf Club, on the beautiful Bargara coast,” Cr Cooper said.
“There are also opportunities to dine at working farms and to meet local growers and producers, giving attendees a unique look into the agricultural heart of our community in a way that is rarely open to the public.
“I would encourage everyone to check out the program online and mark Wednesday 3 July in the calendar to buy your tickets.”
The Taste Bundaberg Festival event program is available now at tastebundabergfestival.com.au.
Tickets will go on sale Wednesday 3 July.
