So last week I put my foot in it. While on-air I suggested some local towns across Central Victoria "are living in the DARK AGES" because they aren't connected to natural gas. It was a joke, but a statement I now take back!
Redbank local, Andrew Borg, gave me a call and invited me to his region to prove me wrong and boy oh boy was I impressed.
My day exploring the Pyrenees began at Andrew and his wife Deborah's property, where they run Redbank Alapacas at Blue Gum Rise, about 10kms north of Redbank.
They even made me Alpaca shaped cookies and invited me into their home for a cuppa!
Here the pair offer informative Alpaca experiences and Alpaca treks across their property (with alpaca cuddles included). It was a unique experience and lots of fun .. something to try with the kids!
After lots of alpaca cuddles, Andrew (my unofficial tour guide and all round top bloke) decided to take me to one of his favourite spots, Blue Pyrenees Winery. CHECK. IT. OUT.
Here we met Tess, Noel and the team (who turned the weather on for us) and showcased award winning wines and locally sourced produce. One thing I love about regional Victorian towns is how supportive local producers are of each other. THE FOOD WAS AMAZING...and despite being the designated driver, I purchased a few top notch wines for my collection! The team even make you a picnic basket if the weather is good for it. SO ROMANTIC.
The moral of the story is, regional Victoria is full of hidden secrets! Sometimes you just have to get off the beaten track and explore. It's seriously worth it. Finding new places to explore in and out of Bendigo is my favourite thing to do, so if you've got suggestions send them my way!