Another one bites a crust at wine fest
EXCITEMENT levels are soaring higher than Freddie Mercury’s most tightly spandexed falsetto as the culinary celebration of the year draws near.
Gourmands the city over will stick to light lunches on Saturday ahead of an all-in feast of the senses at the inaugural Cairns Food and Wine Festival.
Organiser Nathan Lee Long was at Munro Martin Parklands as the finishing touches were prepared on Friday. There was an air of exhilaration about what the festival director hoped would be an annual fixture on the Far North events calendar.
“We’ve had a brilliant response with pre-sale tickets and we’re expecting a big
turnout at the gate as well,” Mr Lee Long said.
“We’re already at 1000 pre-sale tickets and we anticipate getting about 1500 through the gate in total.
“There are definitely a lot of nerves involved when you’re watching those numbers grow.”
A mighty list of food vendors has been announced, including Burning Log BBQ, Tropic Spirit Catering, The Bungalow Hotel, Fetta’s Greek Taverna, East Coast Paella Co, The Citrus Life, Watermelon Fiesta, Salty Captain’s Prawns, Kaz’s Cookies and Mama Taco.
Wineries Wirra Wirra, Grant Burge, Tatachilla, Mudhouse, Jansz, Vasse Felix, Rogers & Rufus, Yalumba, Yarra Burn, Pepperjack and Squealing Pig will also feature their top drops.
Mr Lee Long was most geed up for the live acts.
“It’s a line-up that has never been seen before in Cairns and includes some of the best local performers who are world-class in their craft,” he said.
The event will be headlined by The Killer Queen Experience from Brisbane, which has toured internationally with its tribute to Freddie Mercury and his band.
“I’m looking forward to a great day of entertainment, fine food and wine. There’s something for everyone,” Mr Lee Long said.
“Even if you’re not a wine lover, we’ve catered for all with some of North Queensland’s favourite beers.”
General admission tickets are $25, premium reserved seating is $48 and the fivecourse paired dinner is $192.
All tickets include a complimentary stemless wine glass on entry. Visit cairnsfoodandwine.com for tickets or pay at the door.