The Donald community and out-of-town visitors will flock to a mystery location to celebrate this year’s Cuisine in the Crop. 

Committee member Sasha Harris said the event was in its third year and gaining popularity. 

“It’s getting stronger each year,” she said. 

“The first year it started we were in a really strong drought.

“The first two years were hard and tough. Some residents would say people don’t have the money for this but we see it the other way around. 

“In tough times we need to get together and get people out of depression, get them networking and spending time together.”

Mrs Harris said the first year drew 170 people, the second, 240.

With a limit of 250 tickets organisers said they expected to see a sell out crowd this year. 

“After the first year not one negative thing was said about it,” she said.

“People have said it’s one of the best days of their life.

“From there it’s spreading.”

Mrs Harris said despite increasing popularity the event remained dedicated to benefiting Donald. 

“It’s about raising funds and getting together,” she said.

“It’s intimate, a banquet style feast where everyone sits together.

“It’s food and wine in the middle of a local farmer’s paddock, there’s entertainment and people have a good time and celebrate living in the country.

“It also showcases the region to people outside the area.

Mrs Harris said all money raised from the event went back to the Donald community. 

She said the event had a new caterer this year with a focus on Wimmera-bred entertainment. 

The committee has been preparing the event for more than six months, with crop selection now complete. 

“It’s hectic and overwhelming but relaxing on the day,” Mrs Harris said. 

She said the atmosphere of the event was always fantastic, and expected a heightened mood considering the good crops this year. 

“Of course it’s even more exciting with bigger crops,” she said.

“A lot of people have never seen the middle of crops so they don’t realise how impressive the whole thing is.

“There’s a real buzz, that’s how it is on the day – the whole town seems excited.

“If you like the idea of dancing in the middle of a paddock at sunset, come have a look – it’s fabulous.”