Thousands of food and wine lovers flocked to Halls Gap at the weekend to enjoy one of regional Australia’s longest running and favourite food and wine festivals.

The Grampians Grape Escape featured more than 120 food and wine artisans along with a line-up of Australian music and entertainment. 

Festival director Kate Kirkpatrick said the event, which provided a substantial boost to the region’s economy, was a roaring success.

“This year’s event well and truly exceeded our expectations,” she said. 

“Exhibitors were thrilled with the support from festival-goers.

 “As a community event, the importance and impact of this festival is widespread. Everyone was in great spirits and soaked up the festival atmosphere.” 

Chef and host of the popular TV series River Cottage Australia, Paul West, and MasterChef AU contestant and star of The Cook’s Pantry, Matt Sinclair, wooed crowds with their culinary secrets during master classes and cooking demonstrations throughout the festival.

Northern Grampians Shire mayor Tony Driscoll welcomed a boost to the region’s economy.

He said based on past performances, council staff estimated the flow-on to the municipality to be about $1.8-million.

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