Prepare for a weekend of delicious seafood and drinks, music and exhibitions, nature and first nations learnings.
Excitement is brewing as Mallacoota gears up for its much-anticipated Wild Harvest Seafood Festival, with the tantalising program for a weekend brimming with culinary delights, entertainment, and amazing cultural experiences.
Scheduled to run from the 26th to the 28th of April 2024, the festival promises to showcase the deep-rooted connection between the Mallacoota community and the ocean. From delectable seafood feasts to captivating exhibitions, from mesmerising lantern parades to immersive nature walks, there’s something for everyone to savour and enjoy.
Keep up with the latest food and booze news across the region here.
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Among the highlights of this year’s program are:
- Lantern Parade (Fri 26 Apr): A traditional Welcome to Country followed by a dazzling parade of illuminated lanterns, setting the tone for the festivities ahead.
- EGCMA Mallacoota Inlet Cruise on the M.V. Loch-Ard (Fri, 26 Apr): Embark on a scenic lake cruise aboard the historic M.V. Loch-Ard, gaining insights into the local waterways, inhabitants, and natural environment.
- Wild Harvest Seafood Market (Sat 27 Apr): Indulge in a culinary extravaganza with food vans, craft stalls, live music, and an abundance of fresh seafood. Dive into the vibrant atmosphere while learning about Mallacoota’s oceanic environment.
- Bush Foods Walk with Noel Butler (Sat, 27 Apr): Join Budawang Elder Noel Butler and his wife Trish for an enlightening walk, exploring the richness of indigenous culture and heritage.
- Seafood and Sunset Lake Cruise (Sat, 27 Apr): Cruise along the Mallacoota lakes at twilight, savouring local delicacies and drinks as the sun sets over the glistening waters.
- Live Music from Dust & Echos (Sat, 27 Apr): Enjoy a free concert by Dust and Echos, a beloved band renowned for their soulful blend of Country, Blues, and Rock, at the Mallacoota Hotel.
- Paella Picnic (Sun, 28 Apr): Relax and unwind with a steaming bowl of paella against the stunning backdrop of Mallacoota’s scenic vistas.
- Family Sand Sculpting Competition (Sun, 28 Apr): Let creativity flow at the Reclink team’s sand sculpting event, featuring a seafood-themed challenge for the whole family.
- “End of an Era” Exhibition: Delve into the rich history of Australia’s oldest small-scale commercial fisheries, paying tribute to their legacy and cultural significance.
In addition to the captivating lineup of events, the festival offers an array of activities for younger attendees, including the popular Parks Victoria Junior Ranger program and educational sessions with FishCare.
For those eager to explore Mallacoota’s pristine lakes system, guided tours aboard the M.V. Loch-Ard offer a unique opportunity to learn about estuary health and marine habitats.
The Wild Harvest Seafood Festival is poised to be a weekend of culinary delights, cultural immersion, and natural exploration, celebrating Mallacoota’s rich maritime heritage.
For more information and updates, visit the festival’s website at wildharvestseafoodfestival.com.
