Shore Leave Festival makes its much-anticipated return next month, casting a spotlight on the untamed beauty and culinary richness of WA’s Midwest. Set against Geraldton’s rugged coastline and framed by its thriving food culture, the festival is a five-day immersion into a region defined by exceptional seafood, remarkable producers and a strong sense of place.
From April 23 to 27, the city comes alive with long table lunches, chef-led dinners, bustling markets and cooking demonstrations—all showcasing the bounty of the Midwest. It’s a rare opportunity to experience the region through the eyes—and hands—of some of WA’s most exciting chefs, winemakers, distillers and growers.
To help you plan your journey north, we’ve curated our top picks from the program—where world-class produce meets unforgettable settings, and the Midwest reveals itself in full flavour.
The Abrolhos Long Table Lunch
On April 23 & 24, escape to the pristine Abrolhos Islands for a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience at the Abrolhos Long Table Lunch. After soaring over turquoise waters to East Wallabi Island aboard a private plane, you’ll step onto the soft sand of this remote paradise, greeted by stunning ocean views that set the stage for an unforgettable long-table feast.
On the pans, Scott Bridger of Bib & Tucker and Ben Ing, co-owner of Alberta’s and former head chef at the renowned Noma, will create a world-class spread that celebrates the region’s finest seafood. Expect Western Rock Lobster at the heart of the menu, alongside a selection of sustainable local delicacies from the sea. This is one festival highlight you won’t want to miss. Secure your ticket here.
The Abrolhos Long Table Lunch
Mid West Paddock to Plate
After cooking on the picturesque shores of the Abrolhos, chefs Ben Ing and Scott Bridger will venture inland to prepare a multi-course, wine-paired dinner under the stars on the rolling open paddocks of Yanget Farm—a truly unique farm-to-table experience.
As one of the oldest working farms in the region, Yanget Farm’s rich pastoral history provides the perfect backdrop to explore food provenance firsthand while savouring a feast that celebrates the Midwest’s finest produce. This is more than just a meal—it’s a rare chance to connect with the land, the people, and the incredible produce that defines the Midwest. Reserve your spot here.
Mid West Paddock to Plate
Ginstronomy
Gin lovers, take note—Ginstronomy returns to Bob’s Boutique Bar in The Gerald Apartment Hotel on 25 April for its fourth year, bringing together some of WA’s best distillers for a night of gin tastings and live music from local talent Ian Weggler and James Softly.
Settle in for a G&T as Head Chef Rodi Aasmaa showcases the best of the Midwest. Expect a masterclass in pairing food with gin—perfect inspiration for your next post-festival soiree. Book your ticket here.
Ginstronomy
Skeetas Seafood Soirée
Picture this: a long, sun-soaked afternoon on Geraldton’s waterfront, indulging in a five-course shared feast featuring the region’s freshest seafood. This dreamy seafood experience awaits at Skeetas Seafood Soiree on April 27. Over this multi-course affair, sip on wines from the award-winning Leeuwin Estate and locally crafted brews from the iconic Finlay’s Kalbarri. It’s the perfect way to cap off your Shore Leave itinerary. Book your spot at the table here.
Skeetas Seafood Soirée
Get a Taste of Shore Leave at These Free Festival Events
In between your itinerary of ticketed events at Shore Leave, make time to explore the free experiences on offer. Discover the rich flavours of the region at the Midwest Food Marketplace, where local producers and chefs come together to showcase the best of the Midwest. Buy crays straight from local fishers and indulge in freshly grilled lobster straight off the boat at the Beach Price Markets, and don’t miss The Helm Kitchen, where top chefs bring the best local seafood to life with live cooking demos and expert tips that you can carry home with you after the festival ends.
For more information and to book your tickets, head to the Shore Leave Festival website.
