Time is running out for those who appreciate a good deal and are enthusiastic about showing their support for the 2024 Stanthorpe Apple and Grape Harvest Festival to become members of the “Apple and Grape Club.”
Russell Wantling, the Festival president, stressed that becoming a club member is a fantastic way for the community to showcase their enthusiastic backing for the festival, all while enjoying immediate perks.
“We’ve maintained our $30 club membership, and as a token of our appreciation to our loyal festival-goers, we’re offering them $65 worth of tickets and bonuses right from the get-go,” Mr. Wantling announced.
Joining the Apple and Grape Club comes with a three-day pass to the Queensland Country Bank Food and Wine Fiesta, a festival-branded stemless picnic glass, and early access to ticket releases.
“We’ve already received a significant amount of interest in the Apple and Grape Gala ball, the consistently popular public Grape Crush, and the sought-after Banchetto Italiano, an event that consistently sells out at every festival. As a gesture of our gratitude to our devoted club members, we will be providing them with the opportunity to secure early-release tickets for these and many more events,” Mr. Wantling added.
Mr Wantling emphasised the significance of the Apple and Grape Harvest Festival as a beloved Queensland icon, one that the community takes immense pride in. The festival plays a pivotal role in bringing around 70,000 visitors to Southern Downs, thereby boosting local employment and supporting small businesses.
While the festival joined in the town’s 150th birthday celebrations in 2022, next year, the festival has its unique reason to celebrate.
“It has been 70 years since the concept of the festival first took root,” said Mr. Wantling. “Back to Stanthorpe Week is where it all began. The iconic arches made their inaugural appearance, our first queen was crowned, and we celebrated everything that is wonderful about our region. And here we are, 70 years later, still celebrating all that we hold dear.”
Mr Wantling assured that the festival’s 70th-anniversary celebration would be a grand affair, featuring the Grape Crush Championships, Queensland Country Bank Food and Wine Fiesta, Channel 7 Grand Parade, Rebel FM Street Carnival, and the Apple and Grape Gala Ball, among a plethora of other events in a packed program.
The 10-day festival is set to run from 23 February to 3 March next year.
To become a member of the Apple and Grape Club, visit www.appleandgrape.org before the invitation period closes on 30 October, 2023.
