If there’s ever a chance to learn from the best and brightest of Australia’s food scene, it’s at Regional Flavours. The gastronomic wonderland will see Australia’s most renowned chefs, local producers, winemakers, brewers and distillers gather at South Bank Parklands. This year, visitors can soak up some seriously untapped knowledge at educational masterclasses hosted by nationally renowned chefs at The Country Club, with workshops covering everything from food and wine pairings to next-level charcuterie boards for only $20 per person. Take a whiff of only the finest fromage at the Fromage a Trois masterclass, hosted by cheese expert and owner of Black Pearl Epicure, Peter Gross. In this sophisticated session, Peter will share his knowledge on the history of cheese as you sample three different dairy creations, each paired with the perfect drop. Now that you’re well versed in French cheeses, learn how to assemble a crowd-pleasing charcuterie platter and how to pair it with the perfect beverage at Say Cheese. More quintessential matches await at the aptly named Perfect Pairings session, where head chef Owen Ealden, executive sous chef James Gallagher and sommelier Rowena Collings from Emporium Hotel’s Signature restaurant will teach studious sippers and snackers how to match their meal with the best-suited grape juice. Those who prefer a quaff of the botanical variety can check out the Gin Lovers masterclass, where Jeremy Kilvington from Brookie’s Gin will guide you on a journey through the art of gin making – as well as a few samples of Cape Byron Distillery’s best hits.

Those thirsty for adventure can take their tastebuds on a trip around the world through classic Italian staples – think prosciutto di parma, parmigiano reggiano and aged balsamic vinegar – in La Dolce Vita. Hosted by famed chef Luca Ciano, this immersive session will deep dive into how each ingredient can transform a dish and how these flavours can complement the perfect drop. The next stop on the flavour train is Asia – and you’ll learn how to tell your sweet from your spicy with family-favourite cook Khang Ong in Sweet as Spice. He’ll be sharing the secrets behind some of his favourite Asian dishes, as you sample three different rosés paired with punchy Asian-inspired fare. Bringing it back home will be chef Kieron Anderson, a proud Quandamooka, Kullilli and Wakka Wakka man, who will introduce you to native Australian flavours paired with modern brews (hello, Sobah Beer!) in the Native Australia class. The masterclasses will then take a sustainable approach to cuisine with Seasonal Heroes, where hungry folk can join green thumb and sustainability advocate Paul West as he shares his insights into creating food that’s good for both you and the environment. You’ll be able to gather sustainable eating tips and tricks, whet your apetite with some flavourful bites and taste natural and organic wine in this planet-saving session.

Sessions are limited for all of the Regional Flavours masterclasses so book now to avoid disappointment. Head here to secure your ticket.

This article was written in partnership with our friends at City Parklands.