THREE local Beefsteak and Burgundy clubs will stage the International Beefsteak and Burgundy Convention in Coonawarra this weekend.
Convention chairperson Rick Paltridge said it had been a three-year collaboration between the respective Black Swans, Penola and Coonawarra beefsteak and burgundy clubs to attract delegates from across Australia to the one-off event.
“There are over 220 national delegates and another 100 members from within the Limestone Coast network of clubs who have registered for the convention,” Mr Paltridge said.
“The support for our 2018 convention has exceeded our expectations and I think it would be fair to say that it has even surprised the national organisation that oversees the management of any convention event.”
Mr Paltridge said the local planning committee – composed of representatives from the three clubs – focused on showcasing the region’s great range of wines and local produce while encouraging visiting delegates to explore the Limestone Coast.
“We get to live in a really beautiful part of Australia and the convention provides us all with a great opportunity to welcome visitors to our region, as well as making sure they have a memorable time and leave with a really positive impression about our communities and hospitality” Mr Paltridge said.
Mr Paltridge said the majority of delegates would start arriving ahead of Friday’s registration event, where guests will receive a curated bag of local produce and wine, including a custom-made pinewood cheese board inscribed with convention details.
He said two dinner events at Katnook Estate over Friday and Saturday were among the key events, along with brunch at Rymill Coonawarra.
“With over 270 people attending each event, there will be an enormous amount of behind-the-scenes work by a committed team of sub-committee members and volunteers, as well as professional caterers, to get the venues, special wines and foods prepared,” he said.
“It is an enormous undertaking, but we are confident the convention will be a great success.
“We have also planned a range of additional experiences, including tours of Yallum Park and the Mary MacKillop Interpretive Centre, visits to two local gardens, a golf competition and a masterclass wine session – which was actually booked out months ago – for those interested in seeking broader insights about the Coonawarra and Penola region.”
The committee estimates the convention will inject around $500,000 into the local economy with many Penola and Coonawarra accommodation providers nearly booked-out, with some larger groups opting for Mount Gambier.
