SOUTH BURNETT BRINGS OUT ITS BEST FOR QUEENSLANDERS

The ninth annual Tarong Mine Wine and Food in the Park Festival will again showcase the district’s achievements in wine production, as well as drawing tourists to the South Burnett region, Minister for Tourism, Fair Trading, Wine Industry Development and Women Margaret Keech said today.

Mrs Keech said the South Burnett region was the home of many great wines, and had forged a reputation as one of the best wine-producing areas in Queensland.

“The Tarong Mine Wine and Food in the Park Festival is on at Memorial Park, Kingaroy, tomorrow (Saturday) and is a chance for visitors to sample some great Queensland wines from our multi-award winning wineries,” she said.

“The festival will feature a 56 metre long wine tent, where patrons can taste a large range of fabulous South Burnett wines, award winning cheeses and other local produce.”

“There will also be a culinary cook-off and 11 hours of non-stop entertainment from some of Australia’s top music acts.”

Mrs Keech said the event was not only essential for the promotion of Queensland wines, but an important part of the region’s tourism industry.

“Events such as the Tarong Mine Wine and Food in the Park Festival provide an excellent opportunity to showcase the local food, wine, produce and hospitality which out regions have on offer,” she said.

“The festival was made possible by a Queensland Events Regional Development Grant which support events that play a key role in fostering regional tourism and economic development.

“In 2006, the event attracted thousands of patrons, and with this year’s theme being bring a friend, we expect to see a lot more revelers in 2007.”

Mrs Keech invited Queenslanders to jump in their car and drive to Kingaroy to experience what the South Burnett has to offer first hand.

The festival starts at 10am tomorrow, with an entry fee of $5 for those over 18 years. Entry is free for people under 18.

“This festival is just another way the Beattie Government is encouraging regional tourism and supporting our award-winning wine industry,” Mrs Keech said.

For more information visit: www.winefood.southburnett.com.au

Media contacts:

Wine Industry Development Division Kylie Hickling 3247 5963

Minister’s Office : Jo Gibbons 3224 2007