AGRICULTURE: THE HEART OF VICTORIA GALA DINNER
Melbourne is undoubtably one of the top foodie destinations, boasting amazing eats of incredible quality. How exciting to be able to enjoy a menu exclusively comprised of rural and regional Victorian produce right in the heart of this beautiful city.
Agriculture: The Heart of Victoria Gala Dinner celebrates the best of Victorian produce and the farmers who are an integral part of the food to table journey. Set on Dockland’s Central Pier and hosted by Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) and The Royal Agriculture Society of Victoria (RASV), the Gala includes food, beverages and a fashion collection by Australian Wool Innovation.
Flowers Victoria, assisted by Box Hill TAFE floristry students and The Road Stall, have cleverly designed centrepieces that are colourfully illuminated throughout the darkened room.
The MC for the evening is Olympic swimmer and TV personality, Giaan Rooney. Football legend, Kevin Sheedy shares about bridging the city to rural gap through sports such as AFL, and Victorian Minister for Agriculture and Regional Development, the Hon. Jaala Pulford reveals the role that the government plays in supporting Victoria’s flourishing agricultural industry.
The four-course menu featuring award-winning food, wine, cider and beer begins with a spicy dish of blue mussels and a tea smoked duck breast with fruity quince sauce and cabbage slaw.
Main course is a meaty fest with beef, chicken and lamb all making notable appearances. The slow roasted lamb shoulder rubbed with sumac, cumin, fennel and served on top of aromatic vegetable moghrabieh is a definite favourite, with the crunchy side salads bringing wonderful freshness to the meal. As plates are passed around guests are able to share in the banquet, designed and prepared by The Atlantic’s chefs.
Formalities conclude and a creamy chocolate cremeux is brought to the table for dessert. It holds a slight bitterness that is deftly balanced by the sweetness of mint ice-cream and cookie crumble. A cheeseboard is the final touch, complimenting the fragrant wines and ending the meal in style.
What a stunning way to celebrate the abundance and diversity of Victorian produce. From wool to wine, this night has surely revealed the significance of our agricultural industry, locally, nationally and internationally. To the producers - thank you for your unwavering dedication. We will eagerly continue to explore all that Victoria has to offer.
By Rachel Mason
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Major Sponsor: Coles