The rich black soil plains of Moree will once again take centre stage next month, with the return of the much-loved Moree on a Plate Food and Wine Festival on Saturday, May 9.
Now in its 22nd year, the festival has become a cornerstone event for the North West, celebrating the region’s agricultural strength, local producers and diverse food culture. Held at the Moree Racecourse, the event will run from 10 am to 3 pm and feature a wide array of food, wine, entertainment and family-friendly activities.
Set in one of Australia’s most productive agricultural regions, Moree’s black soil plains are widely recognised for their contribution to the nation’s food and fibre industries – from wheat and grains to cotton and citrus. The festival taps into this deep connection to the land, celebrating a strong “gate to plate” culture that continues to define the region.
Moree on a Plate President Rebecca McMillan said the community’s close relationship with its producers is something truly special.
“We are so lucky to know our farmers, see first-hand the provenance of our food, and be assured that it is produced safely, ethically, and tastes the best,” she said.
The festival was originally established to showcase the quality produce of the North-West Plains and continues to provide a platform for both established and emerging producers—from olives and pecans to oranges and honey.
Ms McMillan said the event also plays an important role in encouraging innovation across the agricultural sector.
“Over the years, there have been so many boutique industries established across the region, from lavender to native bush foods, and we want to help provoke thought and encourage our local land holders to see how they too can value-add on their own properties, for sustainability not only of their business, but for environmental outcomes also,” she said.
Long-time supporter and local producer Dick Estens said the region’s fertile soils underpin its success.
“Out here on these black soil plains, if you put it in the ground, it will grow,” he said.
“We’re always happy to be involved in Moree on a Plate, the more we can educate audiences about where their food comes from, and share our fresh food story, the better, and Moree on a Plate is the perfect platform for this.”
Among the returning stallholders are Pallamallawa producers Rob Long and Susie Long, who have built a successful pecan enterprise on the fertile banks of the Gwydir River.
“We had a young family and were both working so needed a realistic, reasonably low-maintenance industry, and trees, being a permanent crop, really appealed to us,” Susie said.
“Pecans are such a natural, healthy food and in recent years the clean eating and wholefood movement, plus the swing against highly processed food has really reinforced the industry and been hugely advantageous.”
The festival also reflects the cultural diversity of the Moree community, with a range of international flavours on offer.
Returning favourites Tammy Sapphalakvoi and Kevin Cheong will once again serve up their popular Asian street food, which regularly sells out.
“We packed up our life and headed to Moree and haven’t looked back. Our new life here has definitely exceeded our expectations – the people, the lifestyle – there’s no way we could live back in the city now!” Tammy said.
“As soon as the crowds start to arrive we always get excited – it’s huge, and a great way to sell our products, promote our business and contribute to a fantastic community event.
“We’re so excited for this year’s festival and can’t wait to help showcase new and exciting dishes to visitors.”
Major sponsor Port of Newcastle is again backing the event, with Corporate Affairs Manager Lucas Coleman highlighting the importance of connecting consumers with producers.
“It’s fantastic to support an event that is showcasing local producers and sharing the message of provenance awareness, now more than ever, people are vested in where their food comes from,” he said.
Ms McMillan said the ongoing support of sponsors remains vital to the festival’s success.
“Without local sponsorship, our festival simply wouldn’t be, and we are so grateful to Port of Newcastle and Grove Juice – we feel greatly honoured that organisations of this calibre share our vision and are committed to the ongoing success of Moree on a Plate.”
Adding to the town’s growing profile, Moree has also been nominated in the 2026 NSW Top Tourism Town Awards, with public voting now open as part of the statewide program celebrating regional destinations.
With its strong agricultural foundations, diverse food offerings and deep community pride, Moree on a Plate continues to cement its reputation as one of regional NSW’s premier food and wine festivals.
For more information, visit the official Moree on a Plate website.
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