A makeover for the Tenterfield Food and Wine Festival pre-empted back in 2013 when the festival went into recession on the back of increased costs and decreasing attendance is now well under way.
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Slated for November 12 this year, the festival will retain its emphasis on local food and wine but also extend its coverage, being rechristened the Food, Wine and Craft Beer Festival.
Harry Bolton said he and his fellow Rotary Club members are all enthused over relaunching the event, and are seeking input on ways to innovate it.
Participation will also not be restricted to Tenterfield outlets, although they will be given priority.
“We’d like to see the focus on Tenterfield produce,” Mr Bolton said.
He hopes the rejigged festival will attract a wide audience.
Entertainment and the fitout of the venue will also be reassessed, as will other events to tie into the Saturday festival.
On the drawing board are open gardens, a theatre night, after parties and perhaps a lunch or dinner at a local eatery.
“We’re looking for other ideas, maybe a function on the Friday night or a long lunch on the Sunday,” Mr Bolton said.
“We want to make it a drawcard, to bring people to Tenterfield and try and add value.”
The festival remains at the Tenterfield Memorial Hall, running 11am to 5pm with entry including a wine-tasting glass and $3 for a tasting plate. Popular components of the event such as entertainment by Chris Markham, Josh Moylan and Cameron Bolton remain.
“For $100 you can have a smash-up day, without having to drink or eat for the rest of the week,” Mr Bolton said.
Anyone interested in participating in the festival or coordinating an accompanying event should contact Mr Bolton or any Rotary member.