My job is to encourage people to visit our wonderful part of the world, but right now, I will simply encourage you to get into regional Vic – any part – and experience the beauty of your backyard.

The Daylesford Macedon Region has plenty to tempt you, and this edition showcases some wonderful events we host such as Chillout – the post-Mardi Gras party that sees the population of Daylesford swell by over 20,000 people; the absolutely brilliant Trentham ‘Spudfest’ which celebrates something else that sustains our region – the humble potato, and Clunes Booktown which has attracted book lovers to this charming little town for years. We feature Classes and Workshops that’ll teach you a new skill, live music that will fill you with joy, and Farmers’ Markets where you can fill your bags with sensational produce and meet the very people who grew it.

Food is fundamental to the fabric of our corner of the world, and we also give you hints on the best choccy havens for Easter, where to get some world-class, locally produced meat, and for the more herbivorous amongst us – the top vegetarian restaurants in the area. I haven’t told my kids yet, but our trip to Vietnam is off the agenda…instead, we’re spending our holidays much closer to home this year #holidayherethisyear.

WIN A BEST AUTUMN ESCAPE

Golden leaves, colourful fungi and dramatic sunsets, we’re encouraging you to capture our autumn beauty.

Visit the region and take a photo of our autumn beauty. Then:

Visit our Facebook Page @daylesfordmacedonranges and upload your photo via our ‘Autumn Love’ tab, or

Use our hashtag, #bestautumnescape in your public Facebook or Instagram post. 

Every month, our judging panel will select a winner whose photo best represents the beauty and uniqueness of the region.

If you’re selected as a winner, you will receive a fantastic winery experience: 

MARCH PRIZE

Experience the wine and cheese produced locally at Cloud 9 Farm.  Win a Farmhouse Platter featuring seasonal produce, two glasses of Cloud 9 Farm wine and take home your bottle of choice, all whilst taking in their picturesque autumnal view.

APRIL PRIZE

Tranquil vineyards, dramatic undulating landscapes and delicious local food and wine, Cleveland Winery is a delight in autumn. You will win a personalised wine tasting in their unique underground cellar, plus dinner for two.

MAY PRIZE

Relax for the day at Gisborne Peak Winery.  Start with a tasting of their estate grown wines and decide which wine to pair with your meal.  Win a 3-course lunch for two people in The Fireside Room or out on the open deck on the lake with superb autumn vines.

Main image: Mt Franklin Organics, Daylesford.

Photographer Lisa Cohen
@lisacohenphoto

“As a food and lifestyle photographer the Daylesford region is rich pickings!

I’ve spent many years coming up from Melbourne to photograph its wonderful artists, restaurants and houses for Country Style Magazine.

I’ve also recently been fortunate to photograph Lake House’s new cookbook celebrating not only its 30 years, but also all the amazing local producers who supply chef Alla Wolf-Tasker’s kitchen.”

– Lisa Cohen