Narrabri is set to become a foodie hotspot again this month, with organisers of Nosh Narrabri pulling out all the stops, including a headline cooking demonstration by celebrity chef Gary Mehigan, one of Australia’s most recognisable culinary stars.
Running over the weekend of August 30th and 31st on the banks of the Narrabri Creek, the boutique food and drink festival promises a fresh take in 2025, combining country charm with a more hands-on, gourmet edge.
This year’s event launches on Friday night with an exclusive Q&A session featuring Mr Mehigan, hosted at Narrabri’s Tourist Hotel.
“We’ve really shaken things up this year,” Angie Jones, President of the Nosh Narrabri Committee, said.
“We’re building a full demonstration kitchen on stage for Gary Mehigan, complete with camera operators and big screens, so the crowd can see every detail of what he’s doing.”
In a unique twist, a select few attendees will enjoy a front-row seat.
“Six guests will get to sit at a table with him and taste what he’s preparing. It’s a money-can’t-buy experience,” Ms Jones said.
While Saturday retains its relaxed, market-style atmosphere, this year introduces more immersive and ticketed experiences designed to highlight the region’s food and beverage creativity.
“We’ve got ticketed tastings and hands-on workshops throughout the day, including cupcake decorating, cocktail making, vertical wine tastings, and even hop rubbing with New England Brewing Co,” Ms Jones said.
Another major addition is the All-Stars BBQ Cook-Off, where past crowd favourites and competition winners return to battle it out over the coals, showcasing serious skills and smoky flavours.
In keeping with the festival’s inclusive spirit, organisers have welcomed a record number of community-run and not-for-profit stalls.
“We usually give away a few free stalls, but the ideas were so creative this year that we just said yes to everyone,” Ms Jones said.
“It means people will see more local flavour and passion than ever before.”
Sunday sees the return of the Nosh Long Lunch, one of the weekend’s most loved events. Catered by local favourites Relish Catering, the long-table lunch will be held outdoors in a picturesque riverside setting.
“It’s everyone’s favourite event,” Ms Jones said.
“Slower pace, great food, and hopefully live music, it’s the perfect way to round off the weekend.”
First held in 2003, Nosh Narrabri has evolved into one of New England’s most distinctive food festivals, a proud celebration of paddock-to-plate innovation, country hospitality and culinary creativity.
Organisers say this year’s refreshed format is already attracting attention from across the region and beyond.
“Everyone loves good food and good people. That’s what Nosh is all about,” Ms Jones said.
More details and ticketing information are available at noshnarrabri.com.au or on Instagram: @nosh_narrabri.
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