Wine and food festival hopes later is better 

At this time of year, Sunbury and District Grape Growers
Association would normally be preparing for the biggest annual event on
its calendar – the Sunbury Region Wine and Food Festival. 

But this
year’s festival will be later than usual, on October 27.

Association president Peter Simmie [pictured right with Chris
Smith of Galli Estates] said the later date is expected to attract a
bigger audience. 

“Hopefully, with better weather and a different venue
in Rupertswood Mansion, [previously it was held at Craiglee Vineyard]
more people will come,” he said. “Normally we get 200. This time we hope
to get 2000.”

Mr Simmie said the association wanted to make the festival — for
winegrowers from Bulla, Clarkefield, Sunbury, Keilor, Diggers Rest,
Rockbank, Parwan, Melton and Bacchus Marsh — more than just about wine,
with food tastings, children’s activities and a nursery.