Gutsy Kangaroo Island is back for its second big year – and tickets are still available.
The annual event, held on the June long weekend, honours the determination and brilliance of Kangaroo Island’s producers, bringing locals out of hibernation and attracting visitors to the island during the traditionally quiet winter period.
As locals embrace the spirit of “Island Life” during this time of year, visitors will have the opportunity to experience Kangaroo Island’s food and beverages in a unique and immersive way.
Kicking off the celebrations on Thursday the 8th of June, The Shy Wren in Penneshaw is hosting Mulled. Guests can expect fireside warmth, music, mulled wine, and hearty stews made by the wine bar’s Chilean chefs. Local KI olives will feature in the house-made focaccia and martinis, and homegrown beer makers Grasshopper Brewing will be pouring beers. Plus two bands will keep everyone on their feet and dancing until late.
Emu Ridge will host a Twilight Tour and Steak Night on Friday night. With a eucalyptus cocktail upon arrival, guests will be given an exclusive guided tour of their eucalyptus oil distillery and a Kangaroo Island Apple Cider tasting followed by an indulgent steak dinner. Grass-fed Angus beef will be served with sauces, crispy chips, and a refreshing salad. The event will start at 5 pm on Friday and is a great choice for the whole family.
Immerse yourself in the unforgettable culinary experience of FireFeast on Friday or Saturday night. Showcasing the finest locally foraged produce, Adelaide chef Alana Brabin, along with Rose Kentish from Full Circle Spirits and event producer Nick Hannaford from The Enchanted Fig Tree, will be your hosts for the evening.
Together, they will create a theatre-like experience while cooking, smoking, and flaming each course over an impressive fire pit. Combining the talents of two exceptional chefs, a skilled winemaker, a roaring bonfire and a communal progressive banquet inside a historic old shearer’s hut constructed from sugar gum trees, this is an unmissable experience.
FireFeast guests will also have the opportunity to be the first to taste Full Circle’s Scorched Fig Liqueur, crafted from Kangaroo Island figs grown on the property.
American River’s award-winning Reflections Restaurant also offers culinary treats with their Flight of the Bees four Course degustation menu. For one night only, guests can enjoy a honey-themed dining experience with cocktails and courses infused with honey.
Grab your coat and wrap up the weekend at The Penny Palooza from 6pm on Sunday at the Penneshaw Hotel. With free entry, the evening will showcase local wine, produce and entertainment. Plus, there’s a unique gin-tasting experience by Kangaroo Island Spirits to warm you up. The American River Oyster Farm team will also be there to shuck oysters, and there will be live music throughout the night.
If you’re looking for a way to wash away the weekend of celebrations, you can also take part in The Penny Palooza Recovery Cold Water Swim, followed by breakfast at The Kiosk for breakfast.
The weekend is just around the corner, but Kangaroo Island has you covered.
Gutsy Kangaroo Island
When: Thursday 8th June – Monday 12th June 2023
Where: Various, Kangaroo Island
For all the details on these events and more, click here.
