There’s no need to leave the state for world-class dining experiences. Find it all at Taste Great Southern 2022 – an unmissable celebration of the amazing flavours of the Great Southern region. Here’s our guide.
The heart of the pristine Great Southern region will come alive in May with more than 30 unique culinary experiences and events featuring world-class chefs, over a packed 11-day program. From Albany to Frankland River, and Denmark to Katanning, local producers and award-winning winemakers and brewers of the region will be showcased throughout the dynamic program. Think long-table lunches, a regional food and wine festival, dinners, dégustations, community markets, music events, wine sessions and much more – a true feast for the senses.
Supported by an exciting lineup of nationally renowned visiting and local chefs, Taste Great Southern will transport guests and visitors to another world amidst a backdrop of rugged coastline, mountains and forest ranges. Headlining this year’s festival is chef and author Analiese Gregory – undoubtedly one of the most exciting cooks of her generation and a trailblazing talent.
Photography: Tourism Western Australia
Don’t miss Analiese, who will be cooking at several events for Taste Great Southern, including Catch of the South at the Albany Boatshed on Friday 6 May; at the Albany Farmers Market on Saturday 7 May; and at In The Raw – a seafood and wine event presented by Leeuwin Coast. She will also be demonstrating at Emu Point Boat Harbour on Sunday 8 May with Fervor’s Paul Iskov, and Young George and Ethos Deli + Dining’s Melissa Palinkas, with wines by Larry Cherubino.
Our hit-list of musts include Jazz at the Cellar Door on Saturday 7 May at Mount Barker’s Plantagenet Wines – a perfect pairing of outstandingly crafted wines with the stunning sounds of the Gemma Farrell Quintet, the Lucy Iffla Quartet and Brass Party, which are all part of the Perth International Jazz Festival “On Tour” series.
On Monday 9 May, the Great Southern Wine Journey at the new Hilton Garden Inn, Albany, is a must for discerning wine lovers who will have the opportunity to taste riesling and alternative reds from the region in a unique masterclass, alongside canapés showcasing exceptional local producers.
The Gardens at Bullimah will play host to the Women of the Region Dinner on 11 May. This four-course banquet, prepared by chefs Sally Francis (Runes Catering) and Melissa Palinkas, will showcase the very best of Great Southern produce, with local wines presented by some of the region’s leading women of wine. Get a group together and book your table for an unforgettable night out.
Then on Friday 13 May, kick back and relax with Great Southern wine, beer and delicious food at the Albany Boatshed for Southern Sessions. Rob V, followed by headliner Matty T Wall will provide the perfect laidback soundtrack to an evening with friends and family.
Photography: Amazing Albany
Come Saturday, put Albany Food & Wine Festival at the top of your list for a day out like no other. Award-winning wine, craft beer, local food, live music and talented chefs will grace Albany Agricultural Society Exhibition Pavilion, where guests can sip, taste and savour 100+ wines from Great Southern wineries, snack on tapas made with regional produce and enjoy the talents of local musicians. Sommelier Foni Pollitt (Mayfair Lane) will be hosting wine sessions throughout the day, or if you’re feeling a little fancy, you can treat yourself to an exclusive food, wine and beer retreat. The festival is the perfect place to discover new wines, savour great food and enjoy a cooking demo or wine session, right in the heart of Albany.
Saturday will also see a fine-dining dégustation celebrating the six Noongar seasons on a plate at Goreng Boodja Merintj. A collaboration between Badgebup Aboriginal Corporation, Fervor, and Gypsy Kitchen, the dinner will explore the bushfood ingredients of the seasons, with matched wines from Hawker Ridge Estate and a new brew from Beerfarm. Noongar Elders will share their knowledge at an event not to be missed.
Photography: Tourism Western Australia
Beyond the table, there is so much to see and do in the beautiful Great Southern region. Clear time in your schedule and discover dramatic coastlines, idyllic towns, fertile farmland, ancient forests, mountains and stunning wildlife. Hike up Bluff Knoll, board a research vessel to spot migrating whales, walk among tall trees at the Valley of the Giants or discover First Nations traditions, culture and bush tucker at Kojonup. Make your Taste Great Southern visit an adventure to remember.
Visit tastegreatsouthern.com.au to plan your itinerary.
Photography: Tourism Western Australia. Bluff Knoll
The Government of Western Australia and WA Good Food Guide proudly supports Taste Great Southern.
