Tasting Australia returns to showcase SA’s nation-leading food and wine
South Australia’s premium produce and world-class beverages will be in the spotlight over the next 10 days, as Tasting Australia presented by Journey Beyond gets underway across the state.
More than 150 events across all 12 of the state’s tourism regions will connect foodies and festivalgoers to the unique flavours of South Australia.
Tasting Australia follows Adelaide Festival and Adelaide Fringe, plus major sporting events including the Santos Tour Down Under, Adelaide International, LIV Golf and the AFL Gather Round. Together these events contribute to record high results for the State’s tourism industry.
This year’s program highlights include a festival-first takeover of The Ghan with the iconic Darwin to Adelaide train journey through the outback, a seafood-inspired day trip to the Eyre Peninsula, and a day to celebrate Yorke Peninsula’s talented producers.
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 – enticing them to visit regional South Australia beyond the festival.
New flavours are being served with nine first-time vendors to Town Square such as Patch Kitchen, Dirty Doris and Hokey Pokey from the Adelaide Hills. Other Town Square attractions include the Seppeltsfield (Barossa) bar and Never Never (Fleurieu Peninsula) Martini Bar, as well as a main stage line-up of local musicians and DJs.
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.
This year’s festival coincides with the Australian Tourism Exchange (ATE) – which is 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.
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.
Minister for Tourism, Emily Bourke said 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.
"The festival hub in Victoria Square gives people the opportunity to get a taste of the world-class food and drink that South Australia has to offer, inspiring them to travel to our regions and explore further," Minister Bourke said.
"Last year the festival directly supported 280 local businesses, providing an important boost, and fostering real connection across events showcasing the calibre of South Australian food and drinks"
Tasting Australia Festival Curator, Duncan Welgemoed said 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.
"Bring your family, meet friends, go exploring and try something new. That sense of possibility is what Tasting Australia is all about," Mr Welgemoed said.
Journey Beyond Executive General Manager Marketing, Justine Lally said the festival will 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." Ms Lally 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"