The Bacchus Marsh Strawberries and Cherries Weekend is on again.
Last week, growers from Naturipe Fruits strawberry farm, one of a record number of 31 strawberry and cherry producers involved in this year’s festival, offered a sneak peek of what’s in store for visitors at the festival’s launch.
A ‘trail’ of way stations spread thoughout Bacchus Marsh and the Avenue of Honour, will give visitors a taste of what the town has to offer. Anyone who completes the whole trail will be entered to win the ‘Ultimate Bacchus Marsh Experience’, which includes a two-night stay in town and a five-course dinner for two.
Bacchus Marsh Tourism Association’s Tina Seirlis says there will be something for everyone, with entertainment and activities including a fireworks show at Maddingley Park, starting at 9.15pm on Saturday.
She says the weekend will be a great chance to showcase the cafes and eateries in town, as well as other shops and community groups.
Moorabool mayor Paul Tatchell said the event had helped put Moorabool on the map.
“Moorabool really is a land of agriculture and we really are a presence; we really are a brand,” Cr Tatchell said.
“If we took agriculture out of the Moorabool region, it would be like taking the beach from the Great Ocean Road.”
Cr Tatchell said the weekend events were an integral part of economic development in the shire.
Moorabool council has given Bacchus Marsh Tourism Association $27,000 to help with future events.
This year is the eighth annual Strawberries and Cherries Trail Weekend. It takes place on Saturday and Sunday, November 22-23, from 10am until 5pm. For more information, visit http://on.fb.me/1oTgTfm.
