A southern extension of the Great Dividing Range, the Pyrenees foothills and ranges create a remarkable diversity of microclimates that provide a wealth of variety for winemakers. The 44 vineyards in the region grow about 25 varieties of grapes, but the Pyrenees’ strength and reputation lies in its savoury, spicy reds and in particular, premium shiraz and cabernet sauvignon. Chardonnay and sauvignon blanc also respond beautifully to the soils and climate here.
 
It seems logical that the area, given its diversity of landscape and climates, should also produce a wide variety of quality produce. Lamb from around the town of Avoca has a reputation for being among the best in the country and is a perfect match with the local shiraz. Olive oil, smoked eel and trout are also finding their way onto local menus.
 
Come and experience all this and more combined with the regions premier thoroughbred racing at the all new Pyrenees Festival of Racing & Tasting.
 
Held over the ANZAC Day long weekend, the festival starts on Friday 23rd April with a Pyrenees Pubs Night. Locals and visitors can enjoy a wholesome meal at one of the many iconic Pyrenees Pubs, and while doing so they will also be supporting the heart of any country town - the local pub!

 

Then on Saturday the 24th of April, jump onboard the Winery Bus-A-Bout for a hassle free day of Pyrenees wine and food. Buses will circuit the regions’ finest including Pyrenees Ridge Estate; Lamplough Estate; Amherst Winery; Eurabbie Estate; Mount Avoca; Blue Pyrenees Estate; Summerfield Winery; Warrenmang Vineyard and Resort; Taltarni Vineyards; Dalwhinnie Wines and Redbank Winery. Buses will arrive at each winery every 30 – 40 minutes giving you plenty of options to stay longer or continue on the tour.

 

The Bus-A-Bout tour is $20 pre booked by Friday the 16th of April or $30 there afterwards (subject to availability) and includes the tour, tastings, map and a souvenir wine tasting glass.  Travel and Tour packages are also available from Maryborough and Ballarat.

 

In the evening why not come back to the racecourse to watch the latest family movie on the big screen for free. There will be plenty of food available on site or you can bring a picnic to enjoy on the lawn while the kids participate in some of the great activities before the move starts. Lovers of the outdoors are encouraged to book a campsite and stay the weekend at the racecourse. At $10 per site per night it is a great opportunity to enjoy a few quiet drinks along with your own barbie and be ready for a day at the races without having to worry about transport.
 
Sunday is ANZAC Day and will start with a Dawn Service in the main street. Stay a few hours to enjoy the riverside markets from 9am before heading back to the racecourse for the Mount Avoca ANZAC Day races.
 
The day will showcase country thoroughbred racing at its finest and traditional ANZAC Day activities such as 2UP, the Last Post and National Anthem live, World War 2 Ex-Military Vehicle Parade and the Creswick Light Horse Troup.
 
The ever popular eight piece Biggish Band will keep the crowd entertained as well as endless free activities for the kids.

All this, in addition to the Pyrenees Food & Wine Village featuring local gourmet food and wineries Mount Avoca; Lamplough Estate; Eurabbie Estate; Warrenmang Vineyard and Resort; Taltarni Vineyards and Redbank Winery
 
After a weekend of taking in all the Pyrenees Region has to offer take your time getting home by going back to some of the wineries to pick up some last minute wines or visiting some of the regions art galleries and state forests.
 
Get caught in the moment at the Pyrenees Festival of Racing & Tasting!
 
For more information on the Festival of Racing and Tasting please visit www.avocaraceclub.com.
 
For further information contact: