Here's How To Experience Shore Leave Festival in 2024
13 March 2024
Nestled in the heart of the Midwest region, Geraldton’s 2024 Shore Leave Festival is gearing up for a spectacular celebration of all thing’s seafood, adventure, and showcasing the unique flavours of the region. From the 24th to the 28th of April, this culinary extravaganza promises an unforgettable experience for attendees of all ages. With an inviting lineup of events showcasing the best the Midwest has to offer, here’s how to experience Shore Leave Festival in 2024.
Fresh Seafood Galore
The Shore Leave Festival is a bucket list foodie event, and the schedule planned for this year’s edition is nothing short of gourmet. From fresh catches to innovative seafood dishes, attendees can expect a feast for the senses.
The "Abrolhos Long Table Lunch" and “Skeetas Long Table Lunch” events, stand out as must-attend foodie experiences located amidst unspoilt Islands and a waterfront deck. Expect the best of the best, tantalizing your tastebuds with a variety of fresh local seafood.
Seafood enthusiasts can devour scrumptious garlic butter drizzled lobster at “The Western Rock Lobster Back of Boat BBQ” located at the Helm along the Geraldton Foreshore. A great opportunity to interact with the people behind the catch, this event aims to deepen the connection between consumers and the source of their seafood.
The “GFC Lobster Factory Tours” event gives attendees an inside look at Australia’s largest single fishery. We can guarantee that you will be impressed by Geraldton’s Fishermen’s Co-operative’s 90-tonne lobster facility!
Adventure Awaits
Beyond the delectable seafood offerings, Shore Leave Festival offers a variety of adventure-packed activities, ensuring there's something for everyone.
The “Wondrous Gems Tour” is a cultural heritage discovery that takes attendees through the architectural gems of John Cyril Hawes. History fanatics can enjoy the “Point Moore Lighthouse Tour” marvelling at the tallest metal lighthouse and listening to stories about the beginning of the early lighthouse keepers.
For those with a taste for a more relaxed exploration, the "Foodie Farm Tour" on Sunday 28th of April provides a delightful journey through the region's culinary hotspots. Led by local experts, this tour promises to reveal Geraldton and Chapman Valley’s hidden gems, introducing event goers to sample a range of the best the Midwest region has to offer.
And for the sophisticated liquor tasters, the “Mid West Liquor Trail” and “Bob’s Ginstronomy” can challenge ones senses with palettes of sweet, bitter and sour flavours. Get intimate and knowledgeable insight from passionate and friendly locals. Don’t miss out on these unforgettable evenings.
Please note that you have to be 18 years of age or older to partake in the Mid West Liquor Trail and Bob’s Ginstronomy.
Unique Midwest Flavors
Shore Leave Festival prides itself on celebrating the unique flavours that make the Midwest region stand out and the “Midwest Paddock to Plate” certainly does that. Taking place on Saturday 27th of April, this culinary event located on Yanget Farm brings together local chefs, farmers, and artisans to showcase the diverse and authentic farm- to-table experience.
Attendees will get the chance to indulge in a flavour sensation where East meets West at “Nine Spices”. Guests will be taken on a traditional Middle Eastern journey to taste the flavours and spices that Chef Nadeem, came to Australia to showcase. Dining with the backdrop of the iconic St Francis Xavier Cathedral and below the shimmering night skies, this immersive experience brings together culture, community, and friendship. This is a hot ticket so be sure to book ahead to secure your spot.
Family-Friendly Festivities
Shore Leave Festival isn't just a feast for the foodies, it's a family-friendly festival that ensures every member of your clan has a memorable time. With The Helm, located on Geraldton’s Foreshore, transforming into a vibrant playground of laughter, the kids can enjoy a range of entertainment and activities.
Moreover, the festival features a "Marine Discovery Tour" on the 26th, 27th and 28th of April, showcasing the largest marine ornamental fish hatchery. Here, ‘Nemo’ and his friends can be found beginning their journey from eggs all the way to adults. The aquaculture of the colourful coral reef fish is sure to keep the kiddies occupied!
Now that the calendars have been marked to join Shore Leave Festival for a culinary adventure that goes beyond the ordinary, here’s how to get to Geraldton:
Pack the car and embark on a 4.5-hour drive (413km) north of Perth along the Coral Coast Highway, passing turquoise coastlines and white sandy beaches, or catch a flight with Qantas or Nexus. Nexus Airlines flies from Perth to Geraldton airport and in reverse. Qantas flies daily from Perth to Geraldton airport.
Events at Geraldton’s 2024 Shore Leave Festival vary from being ticketed, non-ticketed, free and of charge. We recommend booking in advance to avoid any disappointment. For more information visit https://shoreleavefestival.com.au/
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