Sneak preview of Grampians event

Preparations are in full swing for next month’s Grampians Grape Escape with organisers busy preparing for up to 30 weekend events and attractions at Halls Gap.

Grampians Grape Escape, in its 28th year of celebrating the growth and recognition of the region’s wine, produce and music, is on May 4 and 5.

The festival represents one of the biggest events on a Grampians Tourism calendar with people travelling from across Victoria and interstate to get involved.

As well as an enormous variety of food and drink, attractions include culinary masterclasses and cooking demonstrations.

There will also be workshops and exhibits from wineries, producers and regional artisans and live musical performances.

Organisers provided a ‘sneak preview’ to all activities at a preparations launch at Seppelt Winery in Great Western.

Speakers at the launch included Grampians Tourism chief executive Marc Sleeman, Northern

Grampians mayor Kevin Erwin and Grampians Winemakers Association president Leigh Clarnette.

Guests heard about the event’s eclectic schedule, how family children’s activities were part of the program, that musical performers would include Lloyd Spiegel, Orange Whip and Little Georgia and that the event’s traditional Barrique Auction would again attract spirited bidding.

Guest chefs will include adventure chef and author Sarah Glover and restaurateur and My Kitchen Rules judge Colin Fassnidge.

Food curator and sustainable living advocate Rebecca Sullivan and television presenter Emmylou Maccarthy will also lead demonstrations and masterclasses.

Major backing from international renewable energy company Neon Australia and its nearby Bulgana Green Power Hub provides insight into the event’s growth as a significant tourism attraction.

During the launch guests had an opportunity to sample some of the leading wines that will be on offer during the festival.