This year, the Apollo Bay Seafood Festival marks a new beginning and a new format. For the first time, the festival’s program will be extended to include Off the Hook, Harbour Day and Conversations on the Edge, three new events seeking to show the spirit of the local fishing community of the coastal town and those who support it.
The 2018 ABSF occurs at the same time as the 80th anniversary of the Apollo Bay Fishermen’s Co-Op and has been relocated from the grassy shore to the Apollo Bay Harbour.
The team behind the seafood festival encourage you to come along, be captivated and inspired by their unique festival. This year’s theme is ‘Seas the Day’ and with the amazing experiences available you’ll definitely be able to make the most of the sunshine.
Off the Hook is a long table feast with both fresh fish and shellfish that gives a nod to Spanish coastal cuisine on Friday February 16. Embrace your inner Spanish character over four courses with matching local wines.
On Saturday February 17, the Great Ocean Road’s only commercial fishing port transforms into the festival. Entering Apollo Bay via the Fisherman’s Co-op you’ll be able to enjoy food and see the view of where the Otway Ranges meet the sea. The Champagne and Oyster Deck pairs local wine and beer with lobster rolls, fish dumplings and paella featuring Port Arlington’s famous mussels. At water level, there are plenty of food vendors, demonstrations, displays and workshops. Plus, some interactive experiences where you can learn to tie sailing knots.
Conversations on the Edge take over on Sunday February 18, with talks featuring both locals and industry professionals statewide. The topics include; ‘Know Your Farmer, Know Your Food’, ‘The Local Catch’ and ‘Sustainable Futures.’
