Ararat Rural City Council has welcomed the return of Central Highlands Growers & Producers Hub's Forage and Feast festival from January 12 to February 15 next year, with local hospitality businesses once again set to showcase the region's food, wine, and farm experiences.
Ararat Rural City Council Mayor, Cr Bob Sanders, said the festival was fast becoming a fixture on the regional events calendar, drawing visitors to discover the stories behind local farm gates, cellar doors, and kitchen doors. "Forage and Feast is about encouraging people to slow down, meet the makers, and understand just how much care goes into every bottle, loaf, and plate that comes out of our part of the world," Cr Sanders said. "Events like these keep people in our region longer, support local jobs, and help our producers and hospitality operators to build long-term, sustainable businesses."
The month-long festival program will again feature experiences in the Ararat Rural City, including the Taste & Stay experience at Mount William Station and the Black & Ginger Wines Antipasti & Vino d'Italia event.
Both offerings highlight the depth of food, wine, and agritourism talent across the Grampians and Central Highlands, pairing locally grown produce with the landscapes and heritage settings that make the region distinctive. Council is encouraging residents and visitors to explore the full program, make a weekend of it, and book early to avoid missing out on the most popular sessions.
Cr Sanders said the Ararat region's growers, makers, and hospitality operators continued to play a significant role in the wider Forage and Feast program. "From olives to bakeries, eggs to wineries, our producers are putting Ararat Rural City on the map as a place where quality is matched by genuine country hospitality," he said. "Council is proud to support opportunities that showcase local talent, attract new visitors, and strengthen partnerships with our neighbours across the Central Highlands."
The Forage and Feast festival is coordinated by Central Highlands Growers & Producers Hub, in partnership with councils and tourism partners across the region.
