SEASONS of New England was bigger and better than ever this year.
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Held in Uralla, more than 100 regional growers, producers and makers took part to show off all the New England has to offer.
Festival organiser Tara Toomey said the event was an unequivocal success.
“I think the reputation is growing, I think people are really looking for somewhere to find everything New England in one place,” she said.
“It was bigger than we’ve had ever, not only in terms of more stalls but there was much more turnover for stallholders.”
Last year the event was attended by more than 4500 people, this year festival numbers only continued to grow.
“What is really powerful is how many of the people came to us were really there to shop,” Ms Toomey said.
People travelled from Brisbane, Sydney, Newcastle and inland as far as Moree to come to Seasons of New England.
Buyers attended the event to scout products for their clients in metropolitan areas.
“One of our aims is to get our New England products out to other areas so that the region overall is discovered,” Ms Toomey said.
“It’s become known as a food, wine and creators event.
“It’s known for a really high standard, people really want to sample more of the region.”
More than 50 per cent of people came from outside the New England.
This year four wineries, two distilleries and a cider business served up ice cold beverages at the fully licensed event.
Some of those were discovered by powerful buying groups from bigger cities.
I think the reputation is growing, I think people are really looking for somewhere to find everything New England in one place.
- Tara Toomey.
Ms Toomey said the organisers are open to new ideas for next year.
“There’s always really good ideas that come out of every event,” she said.
“I ask our partners and the exhibitors themselves for feedback – there are a few things in the melting pot that are really positive and exciting.”
The Uralla Lantern Parade also doubled its numbers this year as the expo provided food to keep people in town.
Hundreds of colourful lanterns were released into the sky in commemoration of Earth Hour.