The best of Heathcote is celebrated in a new autumn campaign which begins with the inaugural Heathcote Harvest Festival on Saturday March 12 from 4pm at Barrack Reserve.
The free family event will kick off with a twilight market featuring a variety of local and regional market stalls including local produce, sweet treats, jewellery and crafts.
The festival will have tastings from some of Heathcote's famous local wineries, craft beer, gin and cider producers and food trucks offering a diverse selection from paella to tapas. Live music will start from 4.30pm to 8pm featuring Hot Potato Band and local musicians Vino Sapiens and The Ratbags.
Heathcote Tourism and Development President Peter Young said this was the first time a tourism campaign had focused on autumn which until now was traditionally a quiet time for Heathcote with wineries focusing on producing vintages.
"Heathcote can be enjoyed all year round, but the autumn colours of our beautiful natural surrounds are truly spectacular, and we want everyone to know that it's not to be missed," Mr Young said.
"The Heathcote Harvest Festival brings together the best in one place and it's a great way to launch our new Heathcote Harvest campaign.
"With this new branding, the aim is for Heathcote to become a must-see destination in autumn, a magnet for visitors seeking an amazing array of experiences and things to see and do. We want Heathcote Harvest to become established as an annual feature in the events calendar.
"The COVID-19 pandemic has taken its toll on our business community and we were forced to cancel many of our popular food and wine festivals. The launch of Heathcote Harvest is telling the world that we are back and ready to welcome visitors.
"Come and enjoy our famous boutique wineries, craft beers and explore the great outdoors with our stunning national park, walking and cycling trails, lookouts and our unique Pink Cliffs on your doorstep.
"Heathcote is a perfect autumn getaway to escape, indulge, be active or simply relax. In addition to the Heathcote Harvest Festival, other seasonal events and experiences will include a range of winery experiences, the O'Keefe Challenge, the Valley of the Liquidambars and Heathcote on Show."
City of Greater Bendigo Manager Tourism and Major Events Terry Karamaloudis said the City was delighted to support the new initiative and collaborate with Heathcote Tourism and Development.
"Heathcote is a must-see destination this autumn for visitors looking for a truly memorable getaway," Mr Karamaloudis said.
"The City is backing the campaign and has produced the new branding and provided support and resourcing with marketing, industry development, networking and briefing sessions so Heathcote Harvest becomes a successful annual event."
