Walk into any cool café, restaurant or bar in Bendigo and you’ll see the word “local” in lights.
As Bendigo Community Farmers’ Market coordinator Hayley Davis says, as a food and wine brand, Bendigo has “just exploded”.
“For a long time the north-west did really well promoting its produce into its shops and cafes but we’re there now,” she says of the region’s love affair with the locals.
“The public is embracing it and hopefully things like the farmers’ market are helping people become even more aware of what’s grown on our doorstep.”
Bendigo’s doorstep is smack bang in the middle of the state’s bountiful food bowl, and as such, the best of the region’s produce tumbles into the city’s lap.
In Bendigo you’ll find the likes of award-winning Holy Goat cheese from Sutton Grange, walnuts from Strathfieldsaye, Salute Olives and Simply Green Tomatoes from Boort and free range pork from McIvor Farm Foods in Tooborac.
For visitors, part of the fun is meeting the makers and growers themselves at the Bendigo and Heathcote Farmers’ Markets, not to mention at their cellar doors and farm gates.
Many producers are throwing open their doors to fellow food and wine lovers, offering a wonderful way to see the region.
Fall in foodie love in the city’s heart; Bendigo’s best food boutiques take the time to share their stories each Saturday as part of the Food Fossicking Tour.
You’ll visit Bendigo Wholefoods, The Good Loaf sourdough bakery, Indulge Fine Belgian Chocolates, The Epicurean Deli and restaurant Masons of Bendigo.
As well as the farmers’ markets, Bendigo’s events schedule now features many great food and wine events. Look out for the Festival of Lamb, Bendigo On the Hop, and the Bendigo Heritage Uncorked, among many more.
As Hayley’s says, “Bendigo is the happening place”.