GALLERY - Meet The Producers showcasing the best of Tasmanian produce

Some of the best produce to come out of Tasmanian vineyards, paddocks, orchards and family farms were taken to new heights by Grain of Silos food director Massimo Mele and executive chef Thomas Pirkerat at the annual Meet the Producers dinner held at Peppers Silos Hotel on August 13.

Canapes and Highclare Estate wine beside fires on the deck was followed by a sumptuous four course meal that showcased fresh truffles from Pipers Brook Truffles, sourdough baked in Perth by Sweet Wheat, venison from Lenah Game Meats in Launceston, Southern Sky Cheese, BT Mushrooms, Kyeema Seafoods, Avoland avocados, Southern Sky Cheese, Tongola Cheese and muchm more from Summerlea Farm,  Leap Farm, Western Farm and Fork it Farm.

One of Northern Tasmania’s most anticipated annual culinary events, it was a chance for guests to dine alongside the people behind some of the state’s finest produce while hearing the stories, challenges and triumphs that shape every harvest.

The theme was Resilience and a panel of farmers talked about their experience through increasingly unpredictable seasons to changing farming conditions and the constant pursuit of quality.

From bumping around paddocks with young children late at night to pick up lambs in need to the devastation caused by bushfire to digging in a failed first crop of white asparagus the accounts provided inspiration and drew admiration from around the room.

“Every ingredient has a story, and every producer has overcome challenges to bring it to the table. It is their resilience and dedication to their craft that we are shining a light on,” Mr Mele said.

“Meet the Producers is our way of celebrating those people. It allows guests to connect with the farmers, growers and makers whose passion and commitment make Tasmania’s food culture so extraordinary.”