Ararat Rural City Council is encouraging residents from across the municipality to get behind Forage and Feast 2026 and support local tourism businesses throughout the month-long festival.
Running from 12 January to 15 February, Forage and Feast will showcase the broader region's outstanding growers, makers, wineries, and hospitality operators through a curated program of food, wine, and farm-based experiences.
There will be two events hosted by Ararat Rural City businesses on the program, featuring Black and Ginger Wines and Mount William Station, bringing visitors into the municipality and encouraging locals to rediscover what is on offer in their own backyard.
Mayor Cr Bob Sanders said the festival was a welcome opportunity to highlight the strength and diversity of the local visitor economy.
"Forage and Feast is a great chance to put our paddock-to-plate stories front and centre, and to remind people that some of the best food and wine experiences in the Central Highlands are right here at home," Cr Sanders said. "Events like these keep people here longer, fill our cafes, pubs, cellar doors, and farm gates, and help local operators keep staff in work right through the summer."
Cr Sanders encouraged residents to explore the program, book into an event, and invite friends and family to visit during the festival period. "This is the perfect excuse to eat and drink locally, try something new, and back the businesses that back our community all year round," he said.
Council is supportive of Central Highlands Growers & Producers Hub and our regional partners to promote Forage and Feast 2026.
