Council is inviting more people than ever before to experience Graze the Day. The Timboon event - which attracted 1500 revellers last year - is now free to attend.
Taking place on Saturday 28 November at the Timboon Amphitheatre, Graze the Day showcases the region's finest artisan producers, cultural experiences, live music and family-friendly activities.
The decision reflects Council's commitment to increasing accessibility and ensuring more residents and visitors can enjoy one of the region's signature events.
Mayor Kate Makin said making Graze the Day free was an investment in community connection and participation.
"We recognise that many households continue to face cost-of-living pressures, and we want as many people as possible to enjoy this fantastic event.
"Making Graze the Day free creates an opportunity for more people to come together, support local producers and enjoy everything that makes our region special."
Manager Economy & Prosperity Katy McMahon said the move would help strengthen the event's core purpose of celebrating local food, culture and community.
"Graze the Day has always been about celebrating community, connection and local experiences.
"Opening the event to everyone means we can welcome more people to enjoy the music, food, producers and activities, while showcasing the best of the 12 Apostles Coast and Hinterland."
"The Community 2040 Vision identified festivals and events as an important way to encourage people to visit and support our towns. By making Graze The Day free this year, we're creating even more opportunities for locals and visitor to experience Timboon."
Visitors can enjoy performances by Smoke Stack Rhino, The Hootie Tooties and Flynn Gurry, alongside artisan producer and maker stalls, food vendors, workshops and family-friendly activities.
Event highlights include a cultural greeting and Smoking Ceremony, community mural project with Sherry Johnstone, cultural activities such as native damper making workshops, BMX demonstrations and scooter clinics, circus workshops and face painting.
Anyone who has already purchased a ticket will receive a full refund. Ticket holders will be contacted directly with information about the refund process.
Mayor Makin said Graze the Day offered the perfect opportunity to gather with family, friends or colleagues ahead of the festive season.
"Christmas is just around the corner, and Graze the Day is the perfect excuse to get together and enjoy a relaxed day out.
"Bring a picnic rug or camp chair, enjoy the free entertainment and discover some of the incredible food, drinks and products our region is known for.
"The celebrations don't stop on Saturday either. We're pleased to support the event at Schulz Organic Creamery and Cafe on Sunday - giving visitors another reason to stay and enjoy everything Timboon has to offer."
Graze the Day will be held from 11 am to 5 pm on Saturday 28 November at the Timboon Amphitheatre, Eastern Maar Country.
The celebrations will continue on Sunday 29 November at Schulz Organic Creamery and Café from 10 am - 3 pm, with a free event featuring live music from Bill Gray, and a bake sale.
