Taste Great Southern returned to the region last weekend, offering a packed four-day program of events for visitors and locals alike to sample some of the Great Southern’s best food and wine.

More than 20 events encompassed long-table meals, masterclasses in whisky making and wine pairing, produce markets, and tours to some of the Great Southern’s top wineries, and involved some world-class culinary talents.

Ahoy Management ran the show, and director Erin Molloy said the weekend could not have gone smoother, offering a great opportunity for chefs, producers and foodies alike to come together to celebrate the Great Southern.

“Taste shines a spotlight on the incredible produce and producers of the Great Southern region, from visiting chefs and sommeliers getting to cook, taste and experience the produce firsthand and meet the producers, to producers themselves getting in front of guests who have the opportunity to try and buy,” she said.

“Our visiting chefs loved working with the local produce available and engaging with the produce in the region — from popping down to the Albany Farmers Markets to stock up for events, to touring the Leeuwin Coast Albany Rock Oyster farm sampling oysters straight from the ocean, and going out on country with Uncle Larry and experience things like blood root for the first time.

“Feedback from guests about the quality of produce has been flowing in, along with the opportunity to feel connected to where it’s come from.

“Some highlights include chef Guy Turland running to the top of Nancy’s Peak ahead of guests to surprise them at the top of their hike with freshly shucked Leeuwin Coast Albany Rock Oysters and Cherubino Porongurups Riesling, before racing down again to cook everyone a feast at Karribank.

“The incredible views at Maitraya Private Retreat while guests enjoyed canapes from Jo Barrett, Evan Hayter, Paul Iskove and Corey Rosario were also something to remember.

“The Taste Market showcasing 18 different wine, beer and spirit producers with chefs Amy Hamilton, Guy Turland, Luke Foyle and Stacks Souffle Pancakes selling out of their local-produce-laden dishes by the end of day.”

Great Southern Minister Reece Whitby said the festival reaching its 22nd consecutive year in 2026 was “testament to the excellence of the region’s producers, chefs and communities”, and an integral part of growing regional tourism and supporting local industry.