Shepparton’s central business district turned into a gastronomic delight as residents flocked to the much anticipated Fryers St Food Festival on Saturday.
It was the first time since 2019 Shepparton residents and tourists could enjoy the wide selection of food and drinks on offer including local musicians keeping the hungry crowd entertained.
Shepparton resident Meg O’Sullivan said it was great to be back and supporting the Shepparton community, especially local businesses.
She praised the family-friendly start time of 4pm, with the festival finishing up at 10pm.
“It is great for Shepparton and it is a perfect time for us considering it starts at 4pm, it is perfect for the little ones,” Mrs O’Sullivan said.
Mrs O’Sullivan and her daughter Evie were just two people of many trying food from all parts of the globe including pizza, paella, spring rolls and potato ring chips.
Shepparton couple Stephen and Robyn Banfield paid tribute to organiser Jamie Lea for her excellent work in crafting the event.
“We are happy for Jamie Lea and it was great that we spent our time at this event,” Mr Banfield said.
Mrs Banfield said it is was lovely the festival could go ahead after Shepparton’s run of cancelled events in recent months.
“It is great to be back after COVID and the floods,” she said.
“It is nice to see some entertainment and a wandering guy juggling his knives and salsa dancing going on makes it a great social event”.
The festival also served up some great music from musicians including Shepparton artist Alice Peters playing at one of the many stages located around the festival.
“It is really great, especially for the music community to come and to show off our talents,” Ms Peters said.
It was the first time the young musician had performed to a live audience.
“I was very scared before going on stage as it is my first time performing in front of a live crowd,” she said.