ALL things local will be on show at Seasons of New England.
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The must-see food, wine and artisan product event will be back for its fifth year in March.
The main street buzzes and people feel appreciated, it’s hard to understand how much it means to a small town to be discovered by so many people in one go.
- Tara Toomey.
Organiser Tara Toomey said the event’s success has much to do with being held in a town of less than 3000 people.
“The town really turns out to welcome the patrons of the event,” Ms Toomey said.
“The main street buzzes and people feel appreciated, it’s hard to understand how much it means to a small town to be discovered by so many people in one go.
“But the best part is that the people who discover Uralla by coming to the Seasons of New England go on to return to the New England and become regular visitors.”
More than 100 exhibitors will show their wares at the event.
The first event attracted more than 50 stalls and has continued to grow each year.
Dobson’s Distillery has taken part in Seasons of New England since its inception, and it’s the only event they take their gin to.
Based in Kentucky, the distillery is run by Stephen Dobson and his son Josh.
Every year festival-goers are surprised that small towns create unique products, Stephen Dobson said.
“Distilling is a very good industry for a small country town, it brings jobs and is environmentally clean,” Mr Dobson said.
“The produce we make is shipped all around the world and we hope it’s a great introduction to those who have never visited the New England.”
Visitor numbers to the distillery have grown since the pair first signed up for Seasons of New England.
“Since Tara Toomey first floated the idea I have seen a consistent growth in numbers who attend,” Mr Dobson said.
“It’s always great to talk to fellow lovers of quality – be that our spirits or any of the amazing producers who we are lucky to have in the area.
“It’s the only show we attend, which is indicative of its value to us as a showcase.
“And because we love to support local.”
Event organiser Tara Toomey said each year retailers in hospitality and tourism come to take New England products home to their customers.
“By having everyone together in one spot it really makes it easy to get a feel for the enormous talent on offer here,” Ms Toomey said.
Seasons of New England is on at Hampden Park Uralla on Saturday March 24 from 9am to 4pm. Entry is free for children, $2 for adults.
Madeline Link
Madeline Link is a journalist at the Newcastle Herald, with a focus on Lake Macquarie City Council. To keep up with my stories, follow my Twitter @madeline_link, for tips email madeline.link@newcastleherald.com.au.
Madeline Link is a journalist at the Newcastle Herald, with a focus on Lake Macquarie City Council. To keep up with my stories, follow my Twitter @madeline_link, for tips email madeline.link@newcastleherald.com.au.
