Wednesday, March 20, 2024
The local government has announced the resurgence of the Norwood Food & Wine Festival, infusing it with a dynamic blend of sports celebration, specifically a ‘festival of footy,’ and premier musical performances, notably featuring The Temper Trap. This rejuvenation is part of the larger $78.6 million Driving the Nation Fund initiative, in collaboration with the NRMA, aiming to invigorate the region with new electric vehicle (EV) charging stations as well.
Set against the backdrop of the AFL Gather Round event, where Richmond faces St Kilda at Norwood Oval, the festival is slated for a day-long celebration along The Parade from Portrush Road to Osmond Terrace. It takes place from 11am to 8pm on Sunday, April 7, aligning with one of the high-profile AFL matches, thus guaranteeing a confluence of footy enthusiasts and festival-goers in a grand celebration of sports and culinary delights.
The Temper Trap, a band renowned for their performances at two AFL Grand Finals, will take the lead in a rich lineup of live entertainment designed to attract more visitors to the Norwood precinct. The event is not only about music but also emphasizes the culinary prowess of South Australia, with local bars, cafes, and restaurants joining forces with some of the state’s finest wine, beer, and spirit producers for an afternoon festivity that embodies the spirit of South Australian hospitality.
Admission to the festival is complimentary, with the day’s AFL games broadcasted on large screens along The Parade and within various venues, ensuring that attendees do not miss out on the sporting action. This festival is expected to deliver a significant economic uplift to the local community, showcasing South Australia’s rich culinary and wine culture to a broader audience and leveraging the influx of visitors for the AFL Gather Round.
Participation from local businesses such as arkhé, The Bath Hotel, 30 Acres, Amadio Wines, and Argo, among others, ensures a diverse offering ranging from seafood to charcoal-fired delights, decadent desserts, and inventive cocktails. The event will also spotlight premium South Australian producers and distilleries, providing a comprehensive taste of the state’s gastronomic excellence.
Moreover, the festival will feature a Tasting Australia cooking demonstration stage, led by celebrity chef Callum Hann, along with performances by local musicians, thereby enriching the cultural and entertainment value of the event.
The successful AFL Gather Round previously generated a substantial economic contribution of over $83 million to the South Australian economy, underscoring the potential of this year’s festival to further enhance the region’s tourism and economic prospects. The AFL’s decision to release additional tickets for the highly anticipated matches, including the showdown between reigning Premiers Collingwood and Hawthorn, signifies the event’s popularity and its capacity to attract a wide audience.
Premier Peter Malinauskas emphasized the community’s enthusiasm for the AFL Gather Round and the festival’s role in extending the event’s benefits beyond the central business district to the wider state. With a focus on local businesses capitalizing on the visitor influx, the Norwood Food & Wine Festival represents a significant opportunity for the showcase and celebration of South Australian culture, cuisine, and community spirit.
The AFL CEO Andrew Dillon and Mayor Robert Bria, along with local business owners, have expressed their excitement and readiness to welcome both locals and visitors to this premier event, highlighting the anticipated economic and cultural benefits. The Temper Trap’s engagement further solidifies the festival’s appeal, promising an unforgettable experience of festivity, music, and football.
Tags: community, culinary, economy, entertainment, festival, Footy, innovation, music, sustainability, Tourism
Saturday, April 27, 2024
