COHUNA and District Progress Association hosted its second chilli festival on Friday with close to 1000 people turning out to test their tastebuds.
With a range of food stalls and vans on site, offerings were not limited to the hot and spicy, but they certainly were a main feature.
In perfect weather, people arrived at Cohuna Garden Park from 5.30pm – many tourists enjoying a long-weekend getaway to celebrate the AFL Grand Final.
Organiser Tanya Harvery said the event was bigger than last year, and proved the festival was growing in popularity.
“Our town doubled overnight, we had as many people in the caravan park as we have residents of the town,” she said.
“We had 10 food vendors which was up from three last year and several of those were sold out by 7pm and all sold out on the night.
“We have received a lot of positive feedback which is great, but we’re also open to constructive criticism as we would like to make the festival a yearly feature that gets bigger and better every year.”
Back by popular demand, Toli, an acoustic singer and guitarist provided entertainment, while children enjoyed a host of attractions and activities.
There were three winners in the chilli cook-off competition with the public judging based on taste, texture, aroma, and appearance.
The Hot Wings competition also drew three winners with contestants racing to devour eight scorching hot wings, each hotter than the last.
Bragging rights for the Fire Bowl event was split two ways, with contestants racing to finish a bowl of scorching hot wings, all at the same fiery level.
The winners shared a $500 cash prize.
Set in a picturesque location, between Cohuna’s main street and the Gunbower Creek waterway, residents and tourists mingled together with visitors from all across the state.
All funds raised from the festival go back to the Progress Association and are used for future events, including next year’s chilli festival.
Ms Harvey thanked the community for their support as well as Cohuna Kangas Football Netball Club, Cohuna Butchers, and Kimmy’s Cafe.
“I cannot express enough gratitude to the Progress Association for their dedication in organising this great event,” she said.
GALLERY: It’s hot and chilli in the evening in Cohuna
To leave feedback or make suggestions for next year’s event, visit Cohuna Chilli Festival’s Facebook page.
