Garlic bonanza hits Meeniyan

IT WAS a remarkable day at Meeniyan on Saturday as crowds gathered for the annual Meeniyan Garlic Festival.

Building on previous years and listening to community feedback, the event offered something for everyone.

Meandering from the shuttles people delighted in the old car and tractor display put on by Gippsland Historical Automobile Club – South Gippsland Branch, once inside story time for the young ones was to the left and the all-new Gippsland Wine Academy was off to the right.

With 20 vintages from local growers on offer, tables outside the Academy allowed visitors to indulge in a glass and listen to the sounds of Borderline Band Gippsland, John Rees and Gary Marr and the Beady Eyes Band throughout the day.

“It’s exciting – there is a new vigour and vibe under the new management team,” committee member David explained.

“We’ve increased the range of family activities and that has brought a new energy and feel to the festival. We’ve also introduced the Gippsland Wine Academy which showcases 20 wineries and two pop up restaurants.

“We’ve focused on bringing the best of Gippsland to the festival while providing a distinct alternative, supercharging the event and bringing a much higher level that people have come to want from observations over the past couple of years.”

Back on the all-important garlic strip, queues were building as growers tried to keep up with demand after a challenging season.

“The garlic is reflecting the last eight weeks, which has been the toughest garlic harvest in 25 years with high rainfall and limited heat. For many growers it has been a challenging time,” David noted.

“The festival is a chance for growers all over the state to 
collaborate with a wide range on offer – and those who couldn’t make it have also sent garlic down.”

The festival also played host to the 2023 Australian Garlic Industry Association Awards with local garlic grower awardees including Grand Ridge Organics, Mirboo Farm, Koonwarra Farm and Green Hills Farm.

Back in the main arena free activities meant young and mature alike could grab hula hoops, jump on a billy cart or take it in turns rock climbing, not to mention make their own vegetable animal.

David’s comments were echoed by the team who were overwhelmed at the turnout and magnificent weather.

“The kid’s activities are wonderful, the stalls are a mixed bag with something for everyone, there are guest speakers and cooking demonstrations, multiple live music stages…” Deanne stated.

“The support from family, friends, volunteers and the local community of Meeniyan has been incredible – thank you so much.”

The festival also had some surprise guests with Adam Liaw and Poh Ling Yeow taking time at the festival to film the Great Australian Bite and Pete Everett and Millie Ross also spotted in the crowd.