AUTUMN ITINERARY

AN AUTUMN ITINERARY TO DELIGHT THE SENSES

FOR THE BOOKWORM The village of Clunes will come to life in May as part of the annual Clunes Booktown Festival. With over 15,000 people descending upon the goldfields town, the event features author talks, panel discussions, literary experiences as well as the chance to discover the largest collection of rare, out-of-print and collectable books in Australia.

FOR THE FOODIE Plate Up Ballarat will return to Ballarat this year, albeit in a different format, showcasing the best food and wine offerings in the western region. Keep your eyes peeled for various pop-up events as cafes, restaurants and eateries the city-over open their doors and present culinary experiences that will stimulate the taste buds and warm the hearts. See full article in this issue

FOR LOVERS OF THE OUTDOORS The Macedon Ranges is one of the most popular regions to visit during the autumn period. Set aside time to visit the beautiful Botanic Gardens in Kyneton, Malmsbury and Gisborne, or explore the gardens that open for the Macedon Autumn Weekend. You’ll be in awe at the striking colours and calming natural beauty.

FOR SOMETHING NEW The city of Ballarat is becoming more renowned for its café and restaurant offerings, and the newest kid on the block Johnny Alloo is one to put on your hit list. With an all-day breakfast menu that will have you salivating at first glance, as well as decadent lunch options, this eatery serves up the best seasonal flavours for your dining pleasure. Autumn-time is a most magnificent time of the year in our region. Our townships’ stunning streetscapes are painted in the distinct colours of the season, with trees boasting hues of crimson, orange and yellow. Here’s some suggestions for how you can delight all your senses and explore the wonders of the region this autumn.

FOR FAMILIES Trentham comes alive on 2nd May for the 13th annual SpudFest. Everything spud related is on show with games, entertainment and fun for the whole family. trenthamspudfest.org.au

FOR THE MARKET GOERS We are lucky in that our region boasts a number of Farmers Markets, so you can stock up on the freshest, seasonal produce from our paddocks, patches and vines. Daylesford, Creswick, Trentham, Talbot and Clunes are just some of the places with monthly markets, so make a day of it and do a spot of shopping while exploring the rich offerings of these goldfields towns.

FOR YOUR DIARY Although a little early for this issue, but well worth noting in your diary for next year is Ballarat’s Begonia Festival and Heritage Weekend, Ballan’s Autumn Festival and the highly popular Lost Trades Fair, which moves to Bendigo this year. All good reasons to visit the region.