Twelve Apostles Gets a $126 Million Makeover: Discover the New Keerray Woorroong Visitor Centre

Keerray Woorroong Visitor Centre

Victoria’s spectacular Great Ocean Road is welcoming a remarkable new attraction, with the opening of the Keerray Woorroong Visitor Centre at the Twelve Apostles on 16 October 2026. The $126 million redevelopment transforms one of Australia’s most famous coastal landmarks into a destination where visitors can explore Aboriginal culture, geological history, local food and breathtaking Southern Ocean views.

The new 3,300-square-metre visitor centre is designed to encourage travellers to spend more time at the Twelve Apostles and discover the wider Great Ocean Road region.

A New Gateway to the Twelve Apostles

The Twelve Apostles are among Victoria’s most recognisable natural attractions, drawing visitors from across Australia and around the world to admire the towering limestone formations rising from the Southern Ocean.

The new Keerray Woorroong Visitor Centre aims to make a visit much more than a photograph of the famous coastline. Visitors will find immersive exhibitions, interactive displays, regional tourism information, guided experiences and opportunities to enjoy local food and drink.

A rooftop garden and observation area, known as the Great Ocean Lookout, will offer sweeping views across the ocean and surrounding coastline.

Discover Eastern Maar Culture and Ancient Landscapes

Keerray Woorroong Visitor Centre

A major feature of the redevelopment is its emphasis on Eastern Maar culture and perspectives. Developed in consultation with Eastern Maar, the visitor centre provides opportunities to understand the region through the knowledge and experiences of one of the world’s oldest living cultures.

Interactive exhibitions, artefacts and audiovisual presentations explore the cultural connections to Country, the evolution of the coastline, the area's geological history and its ecological significance.

The Welcome Garden features native plants and walking trails that introduce visitors to Eastern Maar culture and the natural environment. A dedicated Keerray Woorroong experience brings together stories of climate, geology and environmental change spanning millions of years.

These experiences offer travellers a deeper understanding of the landscape and the cultural heritage connected to this extraordinary part of Victoria.

Local Food, Regional Flavours and Ocean Views

Keerray Woorroong Visitor Centre

Food and hospitality are central to the new visitor experience. A 230-seat café and a walk-up kiosk overlooking the Welcome Garden will provide places to relax and enjoy regional produce.

Local businesses, including Timboon Distillery and Timboon Fine Ice Cream, are among those whose products will feature in the offering. Indoor and outdoor dining areas will allow visitors to enjoy refreshments while taking in the surrounding landscape.

The centre will also provide expert visitor advice, suggested itineraries and local recommendations to help travellers discover nearby towns, attractions, accommodation and hospitality businesses.

A Better Experience for Every Visitor

The redevelopment includes family-friendly, accessible and sensory facilities to support a broad range of visitors. Visitor Ambassadors, talks and guided experiences will help bring the precinct's cultural, historical and environmental stories to life.

Twelve Apostles Visitor Precinct General Manager Andre Smaniotto says the new centre gives visitors more opportunities to discover the stories behind the landmark and develop a deeper connection with the coast.

The project is also expected to benefit regional tourism by encouraging longer stays and distributing visitor spending across local accommodation providers, restaurants and tourism operators.

Bookings Required from 16 October 2026

Keerray Woorroong Visitor Centre

Visitors will need a booking to visit the Twelve Apostles from 16 October 2026. Bookings are initially free and can be made through the official website. Advance reservations are strongly recommended, as visitors without bookings may experience delays if parking capacity has been reached.

A booking fee is planned for introduction in April 2027, with revenue to be reinvested in coastal protection, conservation and visitor experience improvements across the Great Ocean Road coast and parks.

The visitor centre is scheduled to operate every day of the year, with opening hours of 8 am to 8 pm during daylight saving and 9 am to 5 pm during standard time.

Plan Your Great Ocean Road Visit

Keerray Woorroong Visitor Centre

The Keerray Woorroong Visitor Centre redevelopment represents a $126 million investment through the Geelong City Deal. Development Victoria led project delivery, with Grimshaw and Aspect Studios as lead building and landscape architects. The Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority is the site and facility operator.

For travellers planning a Great Ocean Road road trip, the new visitor centre offers another compelling reason to stop, explore and experience the Twelve Apostles beyond the famous views.

Keerray Woorroong Visitor Centre – Twelve Apostles

Website and bookings: https://twelveapostles.org.au/
Address: Twelve Apostles Visitor Precinct, Great Ocean Road, near Port Campbell, Victoria, Australia.
Opening: 365 days a year.
Opening hours: 8 am to 8 pm during daylight saving; 9 am to 5 pm during standard time.

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Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues 2026: Two Days of World-Class Music in Victoria

Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues 2026

Wangaratta is preparing to welcome music lovers from across Australia for the 36th Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues, returning on 31 October and 1 November 2026. Held over the Melbourne Cup long weekend, this celebrated regional music festival will bring together outstanding Australian musicians, international influences and emerging performers for two days of exceptional jazz and blues.

With headline concerts, intimate performances, historic venues and flexible ticket options, the Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues 2026 offers an excellent reason to plan a musical getaway to Victoria's picturesque north-east.

A Celebrated Australian Jazz and Blues Festival

Now in its 36th year, the Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues has established itself as an important event on Australia's live music calendar. The festival celebrates the diversity, creativity and enduring appeal of jazz and blues while bringing visitors to Wangaratta and supporting the region's tourism and hospitality businesses.

Proudly supported by the Victorian Government, the festival provides a platform for established performers and emerging talent, giving audiences opportunities to experience a broad range of musical styles in distinctive regional settings.

The 2026 programme will transform Wangaratta into a musical playground, with performances taking place across several venues, including the Main Stage at the Cathedral Grounds, the Old Baptist Church, St Pat's Hall and Holy Trinity Cathedral.

Headline Acts and Outstanding Musical Talent

Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues

The 2026 programme features an exciting collection of Australian performers and musicians influenced by jazz, blues, soul and international musical traditions.

Among the headline attractions are The Bamboos featuring Kylie Auldist and Cookin' on 3 Burners featuring Stella Angelico. Both performances promise to bring energy and distinctive sounds to the festival's programme.

Audiences can also look forward to Fiona Boyes and The Fortune Tellers, Horns of Leroy featuring THNDO, ISEULA New Orleans Special, Checkerboard Lounge, Frank Sultana Blues Band and Yunior Terry's Afro-Cuban Roots.

With such a varied line-up, visitors can explore everything from soulful vocals and blues performances to vibrant horn arrangements and Afro-Cuban rhythms. The programme is designed to appeal to dedicated jazz enthusiasts as well as visitors who simply enjoy discovering great live music.

Discover Music Across Wangaratta's Unique Venues

One of the festival's attractions is the opportunity to experience performances in different venues throughout the town.

The Main Stage at the Cathedral Grounds provides a setting for major concerts, while the Tiny Jazz Series at the Old Baptist Church offers a more intimate musical experience. St Pat's Hall and Holy Trinity Cathedral add further variety to the programme.

This multi-venue format allows visitors to create their own festival experience, moving between headline performances, smaller concerts and other musical events throughout the weekend.

The much-loved Jazz Mass also returns as part of the festival offering, adding another dimension to the weekend's musical and cultural experiences.

Weekend Passes and Day Tickets Available

Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues

The return of the Weekend Pass is a highlight for 2026, providing access to performances across the Main Stage, St Pat's Hall, the Tiny Jazz Series and the Jazz Mass over Saturday and Sunday.

Visitors who cannot attend both days can choose Saturday or Sunday Day Passes instead. These flexible options make it easier to plan a visit around individual interests, travel arrangements and accommodation availability.

Festival Artistic Director Serge Carnovale, founder of Melbourne's renowned Paris Cat Jazz Club, has described the programme as a celebration of the talent and spirit of Australian jazz and blues.

Music lovers are encouraged to review the programme and ticketing information before travelling, particularly if they wish to attend specific performances.

Plan a Musical Weekend in Wangaratta

The festival offers an appealing opportunity to explore Wangaratta over the Melbourne Cup long weekend. Visitors can combine live music with regional dining, local attractions and a broader exploration of Victoria's north-east.

Travellers should consider arranging accommodation early, as major events can increase demand for rooms and other visitor services. Checking performance schedules, venue locations and transport arrangements ahead of time will also help make the most of the weekend.

Whether travelling specifically for the music or adding the festival to a regional Victorian holiday, the Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues 2026 promises a memorable celebration of live performance and musical diversity.

Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues

Website: https://www.wangjazzblues.com.au/
Dates: Saturday 31 October to Sunday 1 November 2026.
Location: Wangaratta, Victoria, Australia.
Venues: Main Stage at the Cathedral Grounds, Old Baptist Church, St Pat's Hall and Holy Trinity Cathedral.

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Discover the Tiny Beaufort Museum Celebrating the Man Who Invented Vegemite

The Cyril Callister Museum

For generations of Australians, Vegemite has been a familiar part of breakfast tables, lunchboxes and family kitchens. But in the Victorian country town of Beaufort, visitors can discover the fascinating story behind the famous Australian spread at the Cyril Callister Museum.

Dedicated to Dr Cyril Callister, the Australian food scientist who invented Vegemite, this small regional museum offers travellers a fascinating insight into the man, the science and the Australian cultural icon that began its journey in 1923.

Discover the Man Behind Vegemite

Cyril Callister was a chemist and food scientist whose work helped create one of Australia's most recognisable food products.

The museum celebrates his life, scientific achievements and legacy, telling the story of how Vegemite was developed and became part of Australian life.

Located in Beaufort, near Chute where Cyril Callister and his siblings were raised, the museum connects the history of Vegemite with the heritage of regional Victoria.

A Museum Packed with Vegemite Memories

The Cyril Callister Museum

Housed inside a repurposed 1950s service station, the Cyril Callister Museum is an unusual and entertaining attraction for visitors travelling through Beaufort and Victoria's Goldfields region.

Inside, visitors can see historic photographs, advertising, posters, Vegemite tins, jars and other memorabilia. Among the collection are examples of Vegemite packaging associated with Australian Army rations during the Second World War and Mothercraft gift packs from the 1950s.

The museum also explores the changing story of Vegemite through old television footage and the famous Happy Little Vegemites advertising jingle.

More Than a Food Museum

The experience combines Australian food history with science, nostalgia and local creativity.

Cyril's Lab recreates the laboratory environment associated with the development of Vegemite and provides interactive science activities for school groups. Visitors can also discover Vegemite-inspired artwork created by local students and artists.

For those with a sweet tooth or an adventurous palate, the museum has also featured unusual Vegemite-inspired treats, including Vegemite pies and Vegemite ice cream.

Plan a Beaufort Food History Visit

Cyril Callister grave

The Cyril Callister Museum is located at 23 Neill Street in Beaufort, a historic Victorian town approximately 2.5 hours northwest of Melbourne by road.

The museum is currently open Thursday to Sunday from 11am to 2pm. Admission is $5 for adults, while children under 18 enter free. A self-guided museum experience allows visitors to explore the collection at their own pace. Guided tours are also available for groups and include a cuppa and a Vegemite-inspired treat.

Whether you are a lifelong Vegemite lover, interested in Australian inventions, fascinated by food history or simply searching for unusual things to do in regional Victoria, the Cyril Callister Museum is a memorable stop in Beaufort.

Cyril Callister Museum

Website: https://cyrilcallisterfoundation.org/
Email: info@cyrilcallisterfoundation.org
Phone: 0414 082 754
Address: 23 Neill Street, Beaufort VIC 3373

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Ballarat Crowns Its 2026 People’s Choice Pie

Emma Conroy, owner of Emma's Bakery

Ballarat has crowned its favourite pie for 2026, with Emma’s Bakery taking the top honour in the city’s popular Ballarat’s Best Pie competition.

After a month of pastry, creativity and thousands of public votes, Emma’s Bakery won the People’s Choice Pie title with its Meredith Dairy goat deluxe pie, highlighting Ballarat’s reputation for regional produce, innovative food and memorable culinary experiences.

Emma’s Bakery Takes the People’s Choice Crown

The winning Meredith Dairy goat deluxe pie brings together locally sourced ingredients and traditional pie-making craftsmanship.

The pie features goat shoulder that has been slow cooked until tender, with a cube of Meredith Dairy goat cheese placed in the centre. As the pie is eaten, the creamy goat cheese melts into the rich filling, creating a distinctive take on the classic Australian pie.

The combination of regional produce and creative cooking helped Emma’s Bakery capture the public vote and take first place in the 2026 People’s Choice competition.

Creative Flavours Take Second and Third Place

Mrs Browne Bakes Banana and honey
 miso caramel gold fever hand pie

Mrs Browne Bakes claimed second place with its Banana and honey miso caramel gold fever hand pie, a sweet creation inspired by Ballarat’s famous goldfields.

The hand pie combines banana, honey, miso, smoked salt, eggs and cream in a caramelised filling, finished with a crisp fuilletine crunch. Its unusual combination of sweet and savoury flavours provided a creative interpretation of Ballarat's food heritage.

Third place went to Sovereign Hill for its Slow-cooked blade steak pepper pie. The hearty pie features slow-cooked steak encased in golden pastry and draws inspiration from Ballarat’s goldfields during the 1850s.

Sovereign Hill’s creation also received the Best Bakery Pie award in the overall competition.

Ballarat’s Best Pie Celebrates Local Food

The 2026 Ballarat’s Best Pie competition ran throughout August, bringing together 30 restaurants, bakeries, breweries and artisans from across Ballarat.

More than 23,000 pies were sold and enjoyed during the month, demonstrating the popularity of the annual food trail with both local residents and visitors.

The competition showcased an impressive range of flavours, from traditional comfort food to inventive new creations. Several new participants also joined the trail, introducing fresh ideas and flavours to Ballarat’s culinary scene.

Many participating venues recorded sell-out days as demand grew throughout the month, creating a strong boost for local hospitality businesses during winter.

Discover Ballarat Through Food

Meredith Dairy Goat Deluxe Pie

from Emma's Bakery

Ballarat’s Best Pie demonstrates how food can provide a delicious way to discover a destination. Regional produce, local businesses and creative recipes combined to create an event that encouraged visitors to explore the city while supporting its hospitality industry.

For travellers planning a Ballarat getaway, the city's historic attractions, cultural experiences, dining scene and regional produce provide plenty of reasons to stay longer and explore.

Visit Ballarat

Website: https://www.visitballarat.com.au/
Address: Ballarat, Victoria, Australia

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Nyaal Banyul Unveils 360° Virtual Tour of Geelong’s New Waterfront Events Destination

Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre

Event organisers and business travellers can now explore one of Victoria’s newest major events venues from anywhere in the world, with Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre launching an immersive 360° Virtual Tour.

The new digital experience allows prospective clients, event planners, delegates and visitors to step inside Nyaal Banyul and explore its contemporary event spaces, meeting rooms, exhibition areas and waterfront setting without needing to make an initial site visit.

The virtual tour provides a convenient new way to discover Geelong’s growing business events offering and visualise how conferences, exhibitions, meetings, gala dinners and special events could come to life at the landmark venue.

Explore Nyaal Banyul From Anywhere

Available through the Nyaal Banyul website, the interactive 360° Virtual Tour provides a detailed look inside the venue and its versatile spaces.

For event organisers planning from interstate or overseas, the technology offers an opportunity to understand the scale and configuration of the venue before travelling to Geelong for a physical inspection.

Users can explore different areas at their own pace, helping them develop a clearer picture of potential event layouts and how delegates and guests might move through the venue.

Nyaal Banyul General Manager Rick Aylett said the virtual experience makes discovering the venue easier for prospective clients while showcasing its facilities and waterfront location.

A New Tool for Event Planners

Nyaal Banyul Geelong

The 360° Virtual Tour complements Nyaal Banyul’s growing suite of event planning resources.

For professional conference organisers and corporate event planners, digital venue tours can be particularly useful during the early stages of event planning. They allow teams to compare spaces, consider possible layouts and begin imagining how their event could operate before committing to an in-person site inspection.

Nyaal Banyul offers 3,700 square metres of flexible event space, including a 1,000-seat theatre, providing capacity for a diverse range of conferences, exhibitions, meetings and entertainment events.

Geelong’s Waterfront Events Destination

Nyaal Banyul occupies a prominent position on the Geelong waterfront, providing event organisers with a destination that combines modern facilities with the character and attractions of one of Victoria’s most popular regional cities.

Geelong is approximately an hour’s drive from Melbourne, while Avalon Airport is around a 20-minute drive away. The venue also provides convenient access to the city’s accommodation, dining and waterfront attractions.

For delegates, this creates opportunities to extend a business trip into a broader Geelong and Bellarine Peninsula experience, with local food, coastal attractions and regional tourism experiences available before or after an event.

A Venue Already Welcoming Major Events

Since opening, Nyaal Banyul has quickly established itself as a significant addition to Victoria’s regional business events infrastructure.

The venue has hosted conferences, community gatherings, celebrations and major functions, demonstrating the flexibility of its spaces. Its event calendar includes national conferences and large-scale gatherings, while more than 1,000 guests recently attended the venue’s first black-tie gala ball.

With further events already scheduled, the 360° Virtual Tour provides an additional way for the global events industry to discover what Nyaal Banyul can offer.

Experience the Venue Before You Arrive

Nyaal Banyul Geelong

The launch of the 360° Virtual Tour reflects the changing way business events are planned, giving organisers the ability to explore venues digitally before making travel arrangements.

For international event planners considering Australia, interstate organisations searching for a distinctive conference destination, and local businesses planning their next major gathering, the virtual tour offers an accessible introduction to Nyaal Banyul and its waterfront location.

As Geelong continues to strengthen its position as a business events destination, Nyaal Banyul is giving potential clients a new reason to look closer.

Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre

Website: Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre
360° Virtual Tour: Take a Virtual Tour
General enquiries: +61 3 6145 9700
Sales: +61 3 9235 8890
Email: media@nyaalbanyul.com.au
Address: 80 Western Beach Road, Geelong VIC 3220, Australia

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Echuca Crowned Victoria’s Top Tourism Town for 2026

Discovery Centre at the historic Port of Echuca

Echuca has been crowned Victoria’s Top Tourism Town for 2026, putting this historic Murray River destination firmly in the spotlight for travellers seeking an Australian getaway filled with heritage, nature, food, culture and unforgettable river experiences.

Visit Echuca Moama is celebrating the award, presented by the Victoria Tourism Industry Council, which recognises Echuca’s evolution into one of Australia’s most immersive river-life destinations.

Located just 2.5 hours from Melbourne, Echuca offers an easy escape where the Murray River is far more than a scenic backdrop. It is central to the town’s history, lifestyle, recreation and visitor experiences.

Where the Murray River Shapes the Experience

Echuca’s greatest attraction is its connection with the Murray River.

Historic paddlesteamers, houseboats, redgum forests and riverside walks combine to create a destination where visitors can experience the character and beauty of Australia's inland waterways.

The town is equally suited to active travellers and those looking for a slower escape. Visitors can take to the water for boating and watersports, explore the river by paddlesteamer or simply find a peaceful spot beside the Murray and watch the world drift by.

This diversity makes Echuca particularly appealing for couples, families, groups and travellers planning a long weekend in Victoria.

A Journey Through River History

paddlesteamer

Echuca's heritage remains an important part of its tourism appeal.

The town's historic port and paddlesteamers provide a fascinating connection with the era when the Murray River was a major transport route. Today, visitors can experience this history while enjoying the surrounding river landscape and discovering stories that have helped shape the region.

Echuca also provides opportunities to learn more about Yorta Yorta Country, with evolving cultural storytelling and interpretation helping visitors develop a deeper understanding of the area's Indigenous heritage.

Food, Wine and Festivals

While the river remains central to Echuca's identity, the destination's food and dining scene continues to grow.

Visitors can combine riverside experiences with local restaurants, cafes, regional produce and nearby wine experiences, making Echuca an appealing destination for food-focused holidays.

The town also has a strong calendar of events throughout the year. Upcoming highlights include the Festival of Stories in October and the Pop & Pour Festival in November, giving visitors additional reasons to plan a spring or early summer escape.

Rochester Adds to Murray River Country's Success

Rochester Silo Art

Echuca was not the only destination from the region to receive recognition at the 2026 Victorian Top Tourism Town Awards.

Rochester was named a finalist in the Small Tourism Town category, highlighting the growing tourism appeal of destinations across Murray River Country.

Together, the recognition demonstrates the strength and diversity of the region as a visitor destination, with communities offering their own experiences while sharing the broader character of the Murray River landscape.

A Perfect Spring Escape from Melbourne

With spring approaching, Echuca offers an ideal opportunity to enjoy the outdoors.

Fresh air, abundant birdlife, riverside walks and the changing colours of the landscape provide a refreshing contrast to city life. The relatively easy drive from Melbourne also makes Echuca particularly convenient for a weekend getaway or longer regional holiday.

Whether the perfect day involves an adventure on the water, exploring historic streets, enjoying local food or relaxing beneath the redgums, Echuca offers travellers the freedom to create their own version of river life.

Discover Victoria’s Top Tourism Town for 2026

paddlesteamer

Echuca's recognition reflects the commitment of local tourism operators, councils and the wider community to creating memorable visitor experiences and welcoming travellers to the region.

For those planning a Victoria road trip, Murray River holiday, family escape, food and wine getaway or relaxing long weekend, Echuca deserves a place on the itinerary.

Its combination of history, nature, culture, festivals and river experiences makes Echuca a destination that can be enjoyed at almost any pace.

Visit Echuca Moama 

Website: https://www.visitechucamoama.com.au/
Phone: 1800 804 446
Location: Echuca, Victoria, Australia

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre Welcomes More Than 12,000 Visitors in Its First Month

Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre

Geelong has marked an impressive milestone in the opening month of its newest major business events destination, with Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre welcoming more than 12,200 attendees across 15 events during July 2026.

The new venue is already strengthening Geelong's position as a leading regional destination for conferences, exhibitions, gala dinners, community celebrations and major business events, while delivering benefits for hotels, restaurants, tourism operators and local businesses.

A Strong First Month for Nyaal Banyul

Since opening, Nyaal Banyul has hosted a diverse program demonstrating its ability to serve both the local community and national business events market.

July's events included the Community Open Day, Geelong Careers Expo, Barwon Health Foundation Gala Ball, Business Managers Victoria Annual Leadership Conference, Associations Forum National Conference and the Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative NAIDOC Ball.

Together, these events brought thousands of people through the doors and provided an early indication of the venue's potential to attract visitors from across Victoria, Australia and beyond.

Nyaal Banyul General Manager Rick Aylett said the venue had enjoyed a strong beginning.

The first month has demonstrated that the centre can move seamlessly between large conferences, gala events, exhibitions and community celebrations.

A New Business Events Destination for Geelong

Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre

One of Nyaal Banyul's key strengths is its ability to combine major business events with community use.

The venue has been designed to welcome local residents while providing professional facilities for conferences and national events. This combination is helping create a destination that contributes to Geelong's visitor economy throughout the year.

The arrival of delegates and event attendees also creates benefits beyond the venue itself. Visitors require accommodation, dining, transport, entertainment and other tourism services, generating opportunities for businesses throughout the region.

Supporting Geelong's Visitor Economy

Tourism Greater Geelong and the Bellarine Executive Director Tracy Carter said the opening had already demonstrated the value of the new convention and events centre.

National conferences can bring significant numbers of delegates into the city, filling hotel rooms and encouraging visitors to explore Geelong's hospitality, cultural and tourism precincts.

For many business travellers, a conference can also become an opportunity to extend a stay and discover the wider Bellarine Peninsula and surrounding region.

This connection between business events and leisure tourism is increasingly important for regional destinations seeking to grow visitor numbers outside traditional holiday periods.

Benefits for Local Businesses

Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre

The early success of Nyaal Banyul is also creating economic opportunities for local suppliers and small businesses.

Delegates staying overnight can spend money at hotels, cafes, restaurants, shops and attractions, while event organisers require a wide range of professional and operational services.

Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment Natalie Suleyman said the centre was already helping strengthen regional Victoria's visitor economy by encouraging overnight stays and visitor spending.

This broader economic impact highlights why modern convention centres can play an important role in regional tourism development.

Geelong Steps Onto the National Events Stage

With more than 12,000 visitors attending events during its first month, Nyaal Banyul has made a significant early impression.

Its first program demonstrates the flexibility required of a contemporary regional convention centre, from community gatherings and career expos to national conferences and major gala celebrations.

As the venue's events calendar develops, Nyaal Banyul has the potential to become an important driver of business tourism in Geelong and regional Victoria.

For conference organisers, associations and event planners seeking a destination outside Australia's capital cities, the opening of Nyaal Banyul provides another compelling reason to consider Geelong for future events.

Nyaal Banyul's strong opening month signals an exciting new chapter for Geelong's business events industry. With conferences, exhibitions, community events and celebrations already attracting thousands of visitors, the venue is helping connect the city with national audiences while supporting the businesses and tourism experiences that make the region an increasingly attractive destination.

Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre 

Website: https://www.nyaalbanyul.com.au/
Location: Geelong, Victoria, Australia

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

The Shared Table Crowned Ballarat's Best Pie 2026: A Delicious Celebration of Regional Victoria

2026 Ballarat's Best Pie competition

Ballarat Celebrates Australia's Most Creative Pie Competition

Ballarat has once again proven why it is one of Australia's premier regional food destinations, with Buninyong's acclaimed restaurant, The Shared Table, taking out the coveted title of Ballarat's Best Pie 2026. The winning creation, the Sher Wagyu Reuben Pie, impressed an expert judging panel and emerged victorious over 29 outstanding savoury and sweet pie entries from bakeries, restaurants, hotels and cafés across the region.

The annual Ballarat's Best Pie competition has rapidly become one of Victoria's most anticipated culinary events, drawing food lovers from across Australia to discover the city's exceptional local produce, talented chefs and innovative flavours.

The Sher Wagyu Reuben Pie Delivers a Winning Recipe

The championship-winning Sher Wagyu Reuben Pie is a remarkable fusion of traditional comfort food and contemporary culinary creativity.

Crafted using premium locally sourced ingredients, the pie features slow-braised Sher Wagyu beef infused with rich pastrami flavours, combined with sauerkraut, melted cheese, tangy dressing and pickles. Everything is enclosed within a distinctive rye flour pastry that perfectly complements the classic Reuben sandwich inspiration.

The judges praised the pie for its originality, exceptional balance of flavours and outstanding craftsmanship, earning it not only Ballarat's Best Pie 2026 but also the award for Best Savoury Pie.

Owner Dianne Ray said winning against such a talented field of competitors was an unforgettable achievement.

She explained that The Shared Table has always embraced the philosophy of creating "Delicious and Surprising" dining experiences by blending international influences with quality regional ingredients. Their award-winning Reuben Pie perfectly reflects that vision, combining familiar flavours in an exciting new way.

Australia's Leading Food Experts Choose the Winners

"Struck Gold & It's Sticky" pie by Cookie Cult,

winner Best Sweet Pie in Ballarat's 2026 competition

The prestigious awards ceremony was held on Saturday 1 August at Itinerant Spirits in Ballarat.

Hosting the event was MasterChef Australia semi-finalist and Good Chef Bad Chef co-host Tim Bone, who led an impressive judging panel featuring Herald Sun Food and Wine Editor Kara Monssen, acclaimed Melbourne chef Alejandro Saravia and respected food writer Richard Cornish.

Their combined culinary expertise ensured every entry was judged on flavour, pastry quality, presentation, creativity and overall eating experience.

Ballarat's Best Pie 2026 Award Winners

The competition showcased the extraordinary diversity of Ballarat's food scene.

The major award winners included:

• Ballarat's Best Pie 2026: The Shared Table – Sher Wagyu Reuben Pie
• Second Place: Cookie Cult – Struck Gold & It's Sticky Pie
• Third Place: The Buninyong Hotel – Sri Lankan Chicken Curry Pie
• Best Savoury Pie: The Shared Table – Sher Wagyu Reuben Pie
• Best Sweet Pie: Cookie Cult – Struck Gold & It's Sticky Pie
• Best Bakery Pie: Sovereign Hill – Slow-Cooked Blade Steak Pepper Pie
• Brilliantly Unexpected Pie: Flying Chillies – Pandan Flower Pie

Each winning pie highlights the innovation, cultural diversity and premium regional produce that have become hallmarks of Ballarat's thriving food industry.

A Culinary Adventure Throughout August

Buninyong Hotel Sri Lankan chicken curry pie

Visitors to Ballarat can enjoy every competing pie throughout August, making the city one of Australia's ultimate destinations for food tourism.

More than 30 participating venues across Ballarat, Buninyong and surrounding communities are serving their signature creations, allowing visitors to design their own self-guided pie trail.

A Ballarat's Best Pie Map is available from the Ballarat Information Centre or can be downloaded online, helping travellers discover bakeries, cafés, pubs and restaurants participating in this year's event.

Last year alone, more than 20,000 competition pies were sold across the city, providing an important boost for local producers, hospitality businesses and regional tourism.

Vote for the People's Choice Pie

Food lovers also have the opportunity to become judges themselves.

Visitors can vote for their favourite pie in the People's Choice Award by scanning the QR code available at participating venues or voting online throughout August.

Every vote automatically enters participants into the draw to win a luxury Ballarat getaway for two valued at more than $1,200.

Voting closes on 31 August, with the People's Choice winner announced in early September.

Ballarat's Big Bite Aims to Make History

The Shared-Table Sher Wagyu Reuben pie

The pie celebrations continue with Ballarat's Big Bite, one of the city's most entertaining community events.

Held at Ballarat Civic Hall, the event invites thousands of locals and visitors to enjoy a complimentary breakfast pie while attempting to create the largest gathering of people eating pies simultaneously.

Beginning early in the morning, Ballarat's Big Bite combines community spirit, live entertainment and regional food excellence in a unique celebration that reflects the city's welcoming character.

Regional Food Tourism Continues to Shine

Ballarat's Best Pie has evolved into far more than a cooking competition.

It has become a major tourism attraction that encourages visitors to extend their stay, explore local businesses and experience the region's outstanding hospitality.

From traditional Australian meat pies to globally inspired creations featuring Korean, Sri Lankan, Japanese, Filipino and European influences, the competition showcases Ballarat as one of Victoria's most exciting food destinations.

Whether visitors are passionate pie enthusiasts, weekend travellers or lovers of regional cuisine, Ballarat offers an unforgettable culinary journey filled with innovation, local produce and warm country  hospitality.

Visit Ballarat

Website: https://www.visitballarat.com.au
Ballarat's Best Pie: https://www.visitballarat.com.au/ballarats-best-pie
Email: info@visitballarat.com.au
Phone: +61 3 5333 6530
Address: Ballarat Information Centre, 225 Sturt Street, Ballarat VIC 3350, Australia

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Ballarat's Best Pie 2026: Australia's Ultimate Winter Food Trail Returns This August

The Shared Table Photo: Chris-MccConville

Winter is the perfect season for comfort food, and nowhere celebrates the humble pie quite like Ballarat. Throughout August 2026, this historic Victorian city will once again become a delicious destination for food lovers as Ballarat's Best Pie returns with its biggest and tastiest competition yet.

Now in its fourth year, the month-long culinary celebration invites visitors to discover creative pie creations from local bakeries, restaurants, breweries and artisan food producers, making it one of Victoria's most mouth-watering winter events.

With 30 participating venues, celebrity judges, public voting and the chance to win a luxury getaway, Ballarat's Best Pie has become a must-visit food festival for travellers looking to combine regional flavours with heritage charm.

A Month of Delicious Discoveries Across Ballarat

From 1 to 31 August, visitors can follow an edible trail through Ballarat, sampling everything from traditional bakery favourites to innovative gourmet creations inspired by international cuisine and locally sourced ingredients.

Last year's competition attracted enormous public interest, with more than 20,000 pies sold throughout the city, highlighting Ballarat's growing reputation as one of Australia's leading regional food destinations.

This year's expanded competition welcomes several exciting new entrants alongside returning favourites, ensuring there is something to tempt every palate.

Whether visitors prefer rich savoury fillings or indulgent sweet treats, the competition showcases the remarkable diversity and creativity of Ballarat's thriving hospitality industry.

Top Culinary Experts to Crown Ballarat's Best Pie

Craigs Royal Hotel Photo: Chris-McConville

The competition officially begins on Saturday, 1 August, with the 2026 Ballarat's Best Pie Awards Ceremony at Itinerant Spirits, commencing at 3.00 pm.

Food enthusiasts are invited to attend as an impressive judging panel crowns this year's champions.

The expert panel includes MasterChef Australia contestant Tim Bone, Herald Sun food and wine editor Kara Monssen, acclaimed Melbourne chef Alejandro Saravia, respected food writer Richard Cornish and City of Ballarat Mayor Cr Tracey Hargreaves.

Together, they will evaluate entries across five major categories:

• Ballarat's Best Pie (First, Second and Third Place)
• Ballarat's Best Sweet Pie
• Ballarat's Best Savoury Pie
• Ballarat's Best Bakery Pie
• Brilliantly Unexpected Pie

The awards celebrate not only exceptional flavour but also creativity, presentation and craftsmanship.

Extraordinary Flavours Take Centre Stage

One of the highlights of Ballarat's Best Pie is the remarkable variety of fillings created by participating venues.

Among this year's standout savoury contenders is Kilderkin Distillery's Highland Bramble Lamb Pie, featuring tender lamb, blackberries and Scottish herbs served alongside mint pea mash.

Craig's Royal Hotel brings Korean flavours to regional Victoria with its Korean Galbi-jjim Pie, combining slow-braised short ribs with root vegetables in a rich savoury gravy.

The Shared Table offers an inventive Sher Wagyu Reuben Pie inspired by the famous sandwich, blending braised wagyu beef, sauerkraut, cheese, pickles and pastrami flavours inside flaky pastry.

Seafood lovers can enjoy Tuki Trout Farm's Rainbow Trout Escabeche Pie, while Aunty Jacks delivers a playful Chicken Parmigiana Pie wrapped in buttery pastry and finished with mozzarella velouté.

Sweet Creations Worth Travelling For

Flying Chillies Photo: Chris McConville

Dessert lovers are equally well catered for, with several irresistible sweet pies appearing throughout the festival.

Returning after winning Ballarat's Best Pie in 2025, Mrs Browne Bakes presents its Banana and Honey Caramel Miso Gold Fever Hand Pie, combining rich caramel flavours with feuilletine crunch for added texture.

Flying Chillies introduces a unique Drunken Pandan Onde Onde Pie featuring palm sugar gin caramel, pandan cheesecake and coconut whipped cream.

Meanwhile, Mondegreen Café offers the delightfully nostalgic Off The Wagon Ice Cream Pie, complete with biscuit crust, chocolate ice cream, raspberry jam and fluffy marshmallow.

These imaginative desserts demonstrate why Ballarat continues to earn recognition as one of Victoria's leading culinary destinations.

Vote for Your Favourite and Win a Luxury Escape

The judging does not end with the experts.

Visitors are encouraged to taste as many pies as possible before casting their vote in the People's Choice Award, running throughout August.

The winning pie will be announced in early September, while everyone who submits a vote will automatically enter the draw to win a luxurious Ballarat escape for two valued at more than $1,200.

This interactive element encourages visitors to explore multiple venues across the city while supporting local businesses and discovering Ballarat's vibrant food scene.

Why Ballarat Should Be on Every Food Lover's Travel List

Kilderkin Distillery Photo: Chris-McConville

Ballarat has long been celebrated for its fascinating gold rush history, beautifully preserved Victorian architecture and thriving arts culture. During August, however, the city adds another compelling reason to visit.

Ballarat's Best Pie combines regional produce, culinary innovation and community spirit into a unique winter festival that attracts visitors from across Victoria and beyond.

Whether planning a weekend getaway or a dedicated gourmet road trip, travellers will find plenty to savour as they explore Ballarat's cafés, bakeries, breweries and restaurants, one delicious pie at a time.

Ballarat's Best Pie 2026

Dates: 1–31 August 2026
Awards Ceremony: Saturday 1 August 2026, 3.00 pm
Venue: Itinerant Spirits, Ballarat
People's Choice Voting: 1–31 August 2026
Winner Announced: Early September 2026
Location: Participating venues throughout Ballarat, Victoria

Ballarat's Best Pie

Website: https://ballaratsbestpie.com.au
Visit Ballarat Website: https://www.visitballarat.com.au

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HORIZONTAL FESTIVAL REVEALS FULL 2026 PROGRAM

Three days of food, wine, music and conversation across the Southern Highlands

Horizontal Festival has unveiled the full program for its 2026 return to Centennial Vineyards, bringing together chefs, winemakers, producers, musicians and makers for a long weekend celebrating the very best of New South Wales' food and wine culture.

Running from 2-4 October, the Festival invites guests to move beyond the traditional food and wine festival experience with a thoughtfully curated program of tastings, conversations, immersive culinary experiences, live music, art and community events set among the vineyards of Bowral.

Named after the wine world's concept of a horizontal tasting, where different producers of the same vintage are explored side by side, Horizontal Festival is built around discovery. Throughout the weekend, guests are encouraged to compare, question and connect, exploring the people, places and stories that shape every glass, every plate and every conversation.

Festival Creator and Director Amanda Fry said this year's program reflects the Festival's ambition to create experiences that bring people closer to the food they eat, the wine they drink and the people behind them.

"The idea behind Horizontal Festival has always been simple: slow down, gather together and discover something new. We want people to taste wines they've never tried, meet producers they've never heard of and sit around tables where conversations happen naturally.

"This year's program is our most ambitious yet. It celebrates the extraordinary diversity of New South Wales through food, wine, music and shared experiences, but above all it's about creating moments of connection that people will remember long after the weekend is over."

New to the festival this year is Wine & Conversation, hosted by acclaimed wine writer Nick Ryan, and the Festival's curated tasting circles invite guests to discover NSW wines through guided conversations rather than formal masterclasses. These are all included in the entry price. Also a first for 2026, the Wilson & Dorset Connection Tent offers a relaxed space for solo travellers, newcomers and fellow food and wine lovers to meet, unwind and share the Festival experience.

Across the Festival Hub, more than 80 wineries, distilleries, breweries and artisan producers will showcase the best of New South Wales' food and drink culture. Festival highlights include Bimbadgen, Lerida Estate, Dawning Day, Bilpin Cider, Bread & Brewery, Ester Spirits, Millsheds Distillery, Black Gate Distillery and Nine Circles Distillery, alongside gourmet food experiences from Amigos Food Truck, Fire 2 Flare, The Pines Gelato, Artisan Delish Salami, Sacred Sydney Honey, The Oyster Experience, Berry Donut Van and PhycoHealth.

Platinum Pass guests will also enjoy access to exclusive tastings featuring premium wineries including Brokenwood and Centennial Vineyards.

NEW MALDON SALT CULINARY STAGE

New for 2026, the Maldon Salt Culinary Stage will present a rolling program of live conversations and presentations with some of Australia's leading chefs, producers and food thinkers.

Included with every Festival Hub ticket, the stage offers a behind-the-scenes look at the ideas, techniques and creativity shaping Australian food today. More conversation than demonstration, each 30 to 45-minute session invites guests to hear directly from the people behind the produce.

The program begins on Friday night with Matt Moran, Mark Best, Nathan Ponder and Simon Evans, before continuing across the weekend with appearances from Axell Torres, Lyndey Milan OAM, SJ Pienaar, Richard Robinson, Stephen Santucci and Mark Holland. Francis Mallmann also joins the Culinary Stage on Saturday, giving Festival guests another opportunity to hear from the internationally acclaimed chef during his rare Australian east coast visit.

OUR FOOD STORIES

For those wanting to delve deeper, the Festival's Our Food Stories workshop series returns with a collection of intimate ticketed experiences led by Francis Mallmann, Mindy Woods, Mark Best and Simon Evans.

Rather than traditional cooking demonstrations, each workshop invites guests to gather around shared tables where conversation, cooking and shared meals unfold together.

Internationally acclaimed Argentine chef Francis Mallmann returns to Australia's east coast for the first time in 15 years with Godfather of Fire, an immersive masterclass exploring live-fire cooking through storytelling, shared meals and practical techniques.

Bundjalung chef Mindy Woods will guide guests through Indigenous ingredients and food knowledge in Ancient Flavours, while Mark Best opens the creative process behind some of Australia's most influential dishes in Teaching Creativity. Simon Evans completes the series with Simon's Garden Party, an interactive experience inspired by the relaxed generosity of cooking and sharing food with friends.

THE SOUNDTRACK TO THE WEEKEND

Music remains central to the Horizontal Festival experience, creating the atmosphere from the moment guests arrive until the final glass is poured.

Australia's renowned party band Furnace and the Fundamentals will headline Friday night's celebrations, bringing their high-energy live show to the Main Stage after sunset.

Across the weekend, Wollongong collective Sultans of Spin will soundtrack every Festival session with carefully curated sets ranging from laid-back afternoon grooves to sunset dance floors, creating the perfect accompaniment to exceptional food, wine and conversation beneath the vines.

FAMILY DAY

Sunday's Family Day returns with a relaxed program designed to welcome visitors of all ages, creating opportunities for families to experience the Festival together.

The Maldon Salt Culinary Stage will present a family-friendly program featuring Mindy Woods, sharing Indigenous flavours and fun cooking experiences for children, alongside appearances from Lyndey Milan OAM, cheesemaker SJ Pienaar and oyster producer Grant Logue, who will bring the fascinating world of oysters to life through tastings, storytelling and demonstrations.

Throughout the day, families can enjoy live music from Sultans of Spin, lawn games, artisan shopping, food trucks and interactive experiences before the Festival concludes with a special family-friendly headline performance. Guests will also have the opportunity to explore the Royal Flying Doctor Service aircraft and learn more about the Festival's official charity partner.

Available exclusively for Sunday's Family Day, reduced-price kids' tickets make it even easier for families to experience Horizontal Festival together.

SATELLITE EVENTS

Beyond Centennial Vineyards, the Festival continues to expand across the Southern Highlands through its growing program of satellite events.

Visitors can begin the long weekend with Bites & Barrels with Matt Moran, before enjoying the return of Battle of the Banger in Berrima on Sunday evening and Jam Exchange on Monday, celebrating the art of preserving, local produce and community. The extended Festival concludes with Osborn House Fiesta del Fuego with Francis Mallmann, a six-course live-fire dining experience showcasing regional produce.

Horizontal Festival returns to Centennial Vineyards, Bowral from 2–4 October 2026, with satellite events running across the Southern Highlands from 1–5 October.

Tickets and full details: www.horizontalfestival.com.au

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/