Foreword

Started by Peter Clemenger, AM, from grassroots 20 years ago, Melbourne Food and Wine Festival’s growth and success is a tribute to the energy, passion and innovation of Victoria’s food and wine industries. Each March, the Festival holds a mirror up to the state’s world-class food and wine culture and the global trends of the day.

As Melbourne Food and Wine Festival Chairman since 2004, my greatest satisfaction has been to witness the evolution of a "nice little program" — as some close to the Festival referred to this celebration in its early days — into what is now an all-embracing, award-winning hallmark event on the Victorian calendar.

The Festival team is incredibly privileged to work with enthusiastic sponsors, government and media partners, through to countless behind-the-scenes volunteers, without whom this special celebration would not be possible.

Happy 20th anniversary!

John Haddad, AO

Chairman, Melbourne Food and Wine Festival

Night of the Coq, Libertine, 2009.