Rockhampton set to host 2015 Capricorn Food and Wine Festival
Published on 13 February 2015
Rockhampton Regional Council is excited to announce the annual Capricorn Food and Wine Festival will be set against the backdrop of the mighty Fitzroy River when it relocates to Rockhampton on 18-20 September this year.
Formally held at the Mercure Resort on the Capricorn Coast, the high profile event previously saw over 4000 people attend which is expected to double on Rockhampton’s Riverfront Precinct.
Food and Wine Festival Event Director, Timothy Buchholz, says the festival outgrew its previous location after establishing itself as a high calibre event in the Central Queensland Region over the past two years.
“The relocation opens up exciting options for us in the way we stage the event, along with greater catering and entertainment options, enhancing the festival experience for everyone,” he said.
Mr Buchholz said many venues were assessed and the riverfront was the most obvious and cost effective location, offering potential for growth.
“While the ‘hub’ of the festival will be the Fitzroy Riverbank, the city of Rockhampton and its bourgeoning hospitality industry will have the opportunity to be involved and profile itself to food and wine lovers who have made the Festival a ‘must do’ event on their social calendar.”
Rockhampton Region Mayor Margaret Strelow said signature events like these support the Region’s economic growth with the potential for the CBD riverfront to become an iconic location, showcasing Central Queensland.
“The festival will showcase the abundance of regional food from paddock to plate, while strengthening agricultural prosperity by connecting local producers to the Region’s burgeoning gourmet culture,” Mayor Strelow said.
Riverfront developments will reap the benefits of this and other upcoming events, with 600 hotel rooms within walking distance accommodating a range of budgets.
“We are working hard to secure a number of events this year, with our calendar already scheduled for a major event nearly every month.”
The Festival organisers would like to sincerely thank Mercure Capricorn Resort and the Capricorn Coast for supporting the festival, as well as the loyal fans who have attended over the past two years.