Image Supplied: Under One Sky
Tasting Australia presented by Journey Beyond returns today with its welcoming Town Square hub and connection in focus across a diverse program shaped by South Australia’s best food and drinks.
More than 150 events will feature over the next 10 days and nights, from cross-country train travel aboard The Ghan to a seafood-inspired day trip to the Eyre Peninsula and a fresh style of wine appreciation in the Aroma Bar. Limited tickets are still available to highlights including lunches and dinners in Town Square’s new bistro Good Neighbour presented by Mitolo Family Farms, beverage masterclasses and a closing night party featuring Scandinavian culinary stars Punk Royale.
Free programming this year includes the new Homemade series, where chefs and South Australian producers share tips for home cooking success, plus the new Latte Art Smackdown and the return of Tasting Australia’s hotly contested Waiters’ Race.
Image Supplied: Good Neighbour - Sarah Glover X Kane Pollard
Fourteen food vendors are ready to delight Town Square visitors – nine making their first appearances at the festival – and will be joined by Seppeltsfield and Never Never bars and an Amuse Main Stage set to host local musicians and evening DJs.
This year’s festival coincides with the Australian Tourism Exchange (ATE) – Tourism Australia’s annual flagship tourism tradeshow. Town Square will welcome around 2,500 delegates from ATE, including over 700 travel buyers from 30 countries, for a special event on Monday 11 May which aims to highlight South Australia’s renowned produce and beverages to those who package, sell and promote the state in their markets around the world.
Minister for Tourism Emily Bourke said the festival was renowned for sharing South Australia’s unique culinary culture with visitors from near and far.
"Tasting Australia distils what we are so proud to have here all year round – world-class destinations and venues inviting visitors to celebrate the simple pleasures,” Minister Bourke said.
Image Supplied: Town Square - Meghan Coles<
"The festival directly supported 280 local businesses last year, providing an important boost, and also fosters real connection across events showcasing the calibre of South Australian food and drinks. "After attracting 65,000 attendees last year, the free entry festival hub ‘Town Square’ returns to Victoria Square/Tarntanyangga, giving visitors a taste of the state’s regional hospitality and produce offerings and enticing them to visit regional South Australia beyond the festival.”
Tasting Australia Festival Curator Duncan Welgemoed said there was much anticipation for the days and nights ahead.
"This festival is an invitation to taste life in all its depth – to arrive curious, stay present and share the experiences that become part of our story,” he said. "Bring your family, meet friends, go exploring and try something new. That sense of possibility is what Tasting Australia is all about.
"Whether you’re enjoying a meal, relaxing over a drink or learning a new home cooking skill, this is the chance to pull up a chair and taste the moments that matter.”
Journey Beyond Executive General Manager Marketing Justine Lally said the festival would inspire travellers craving adventure through the free-entry Journey Beyond Lounge and immersive activation The Indian Pacific Experience.
"Everyone is welcome to visit the Journey Beyond Lounge, open to all it’s an essential stop in Town Square. With VIP vibes and plenty of room to relax, it’s the perfect place to sit back with a refreshing beverage and soak in the sights, sounds and aromas of the bustling Town Square,” she said.
"Following the huge success of The Ghan Experience last year, we’re excited to bring another iconic rail journey to life. Discover The Indian Pacific Experience and get a taste of this uniquely Australian adventure and gain a glimpse of life on board. Afterwards, visit the Journey Beyond Lounge, where our Travel Centre experts will be ready to help you plan and book your journey on the Indian Pacific.” The 19th edition of Tasting Australia presented by Journey Beyond is taking place in Adelaide and regional South Australia until 17 May.
Visit tastingaustralia.com.au for more information and to purchase tickets.
