What’s Happening: Citywide festival celebrates Launceston’s food and culture
Members of agriCULTURED, a Tasmanian institution dedicated to sharing food knowledge, sustainability practices and bridging the gap between producers and consumers, are preparing for the fourth iteration of the Agri-Food Festival held across Launceston from 1 to 4 August.
Executive Producer Sarah Blacklock said agriCULTURED brought together some of the finest minds in agritourism, agrifood, science, farmers and entrepreneurs.
“Tasmania is forging a unique position within the national agrifood landscape and quietly garnering global acclaim,” she said.
“The terroir of our region plays a pivotal role in producing highly nutritious food, grown ethically and sustainably and we boast some of the most passionate and talented chefs, farmers and producers in Australia.
“As a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, the festival will champion the Launceston regions gastronomic landscape, thriving agricultural sector and culinary heritage.”
Across the event’s four-day program, 2000 gastronomic experts and enthusiasts are expected to attend events in a variety of locations across Launceston including UTAS’ Inveresk campus, Peppers Silo and the city’s Saturday Harvest Market.
“We will welcome visitors from across Tasmania, Australia and New Zealand for a festival with eco-friendly practices that demonstrates a commitment environmental stewardship alongside social responsibility,” Ms Blacklock said.
“This year we are pleased to have Paul West from River Cottage and ABC Backroads fame as our keynote speaker, and a wealth of knowledge from our other experts including Farmers for Climate Action CEO Natalie Collard and Republic of Everyone Founder Ben Peacock just to name a few.
“This year’s theme is cultivating change, and we endeavour to do that by fostering connections between community and country, highlighting food justice and raising awareness about significant issues posed by today’s cost of living challenges.
“We also have a particular focus on females in agriculture and the ethical investment space.”
For more information about the 2024 Agri-Food Festival visit www.agricultured.com.au