Farm Gates and Shed Doors - 22nd and 23rd September

Preparations are well underway for this year's Farm Gates and Shed Doors event. A similar concept to the open garden scheme this event invites visitors in for 'a look around the back' at some of the region's finest food and wine businesses.

Properties such as the magnificent Elgo Estate winery high up in the Strathbogie Ranges or Brave Goose Vineyard, newly reopened in the historic Glendoxey Homestead in Seymour, will be opening their gates and shed doors to the public for a rare look behind the scenes.

This year the Goulburn River and Ranges Food and Wine Network will also be teaming up with the region's growing and impressive thoroughbred breeding industry.

With the recent outbreak of equine influenza in Australia plans for this event are open to last minute changes but all going to plan Adam Sangster's magnificent Swettenham Stud property in Northwood Road Nagambie will be open between 10am and 2.30pm.

Visitors will be able to drive through the stunning property glimpsing some of Australia's finest thoroughbred horses as they relax in the beautifully appointed grounds of Swettenham Stud. Call the Seymour Visitor Information Centre on (03) 5799 0233 for last minute updates.

Just up the road the folks at Mitchelton Winery will also be continuing the 'Eq-wine' theme with a showcase of some of Swettenham Stud's nostalgic racing memorabilia - including Pharlap's silks. Underground tours, barrel tastings and lunch in the Mitchelton Restaurant will also be on offer at one of the region's most popular wineries.

Food and Wine Industry Project Coordinator at Strathbogie Shire Council, Julie Blyth said, "This is a wonderful opportunity to experience country hospitality at its finest. Come and explore our beautiful region's hidden gems and have a chat with the 'real' people behind the gates and doors of the Goulburn River and Ranges region."

Full details of Farm Gates and Shed Doors can be found at www.goulburnrandr.com.au or call the Seymour Visitor Information Centre on (03) 5799 0233 to request a brochure.

For more information: Marli Kelly on 0409 410 178 - 14 September, 2007

For details/interview call the Editor on (03) 5798 1858