Please note: Images in this article were taken before current COVID-19 safety measures were in place.
WATCH THE VIDEO: Melburnians are helping those who need it most following the bushfires.
Close to 6000 punters rolled up at Port Melbourne’s Timber Yard function centre with empty stomachs and empty shopping bags to take part in High Country Comeback on Sunday 2 February.
Event organiser Janelle Boynton, who heads up Feathertop Winery, moved from St Kilda to Poropunkah near Mt Buffalo in 2003 and is now very much part of the Alpine community. She was chuffed with the event result, and no wonder.
“Attendees spent roughly $500,000 at our 95 businesses and contributed over $10,500 to our North East CFA houses and wildlife rescue,” she tallies. “This was one way for Melburnians to shop directly with us and plan their next trip to the High Country.”
The day showcased growers and producers from Victoria’s High Country, many of whom copped a major dent in their tourism trade because bushfires discouraged tourists from venturing to regional Victoria. Their tagline for this event: “We’re coming to you, so you can come back to us”.
In essence, it was a chance for High Country businesses to showcase their products and experiences and let Victorians know that now is the time to visit and help restore economic equilibrium.
From boutique gin, cider, beer and wine to cheese, bakery items, jam, walnuts, olive oil, jewellery, soap, leather goods, mountain bike tours and accommodation packages – not to mention slow-roasted brisket and pork rolls – there were plenty of items from the region to tempt market-goers.
So plan a trip to the High Country, or visit farmers’ markets in the region, which feature many of the businesses who came to Melbourne:
Click on our video to see more.
