WINERIES along the Warburton Highway will be opening their shed doors to the public in October for the annual Shed Fest wine festival.
Yarra Valley resident and awardwinning actor John Woods launched the festival in Wandin last week at his cafe, the Yarra Valley Deli and Wine Bar.
This year there will be 15 wineries along the Warburton Highway, from Wandin to Wesburn, participating in the festival, to be held from 11am to 5pm on Sunday, 9 October.
Wineries will open their shed doors and offer guests award winning wines, fantastic regional fare, live music and entertaining games for the whole family.
This is the third year the festival has run and chair of the festival committee, Judy Zuk from Five Oaks Vineyard in Seville, said this would be the biggest event yet.
“Last year we had 12 wineries participating and we’ve increased that to 15, and we’re anticipating 3000 visitors to the area on the day,” she said.
Mrs Zuk said the participating wineries had been working closely to prepare for the festival which has developed a strong following in a short period of time.
“We get people coming from right across the Yarra Valley and all over Melbourne to experience the distinctive wines produced along the Warburton Highway,” she said.
“The festival has earned a reputation for being a wonderful opportunity to meet wine makers, sample local produce and enjoy a fun family day out.”
Unofficial patron of the festival John Woods said this year’s Shed Fest would be a good chance for people to see what makes the wineries of the Upper Yarra unique.
“Traditionally this is the quieter side of the Yarra Valley and this year it is going to get a little less quiet,” he said.
“Shed Fest is great because it showcases the wines, food and people who make the wineries along the Warburton Highway so unique.”
Shire of Yarra Ranges mayor David Hodgett said he was a strong supporter of the festival.
“Shed Fest has quickly become an important player in attracting visitors to the Yarra Valley,” he said.
“It is a great day for families and a great way for people to celebrate the wonderful wine and food this part of the valley produces.”
For more information about the wineries participating in this year’s Shed Fest, and the food, wine and entertainment on offer, visit the website www.shedfest.com.au.
Dion Teasdale
