Winter is colloquially our Brass Monkey Season; frosty mornings, beautiful crisp clear days, the bare trace of winter trees trimmed with frost, and cosy evenings with a glass of red in front of an open fire.
Stanthorpe is the coolest (make that coldest) place in Queensland, and it’s the winter chill in the Granite Belt that has earned the season its nickname.
June, July and August is the busy season in the Granite Belt and Stanthorpe, as visitors come to enjoy a crackling log fire, slow cooked food, and sensational winter reds.
Plus, there is always the prospect – or hope – of snow and the first reports bring media and visitors flocking to the region.
Below are just some of the activities that will be held in the Granite Belt this Brass Monkey Season.
Vintage Variety by the Fireplace
June 16 to August 26: Every second weekend from June 16, take the rare opportunity to try some old wines from the Pyramids Road Wines cellar door, and current releases side by side. In a cosy and casual atmosphere in front of their fireplace, discover the impact of vintage on each wine; a great way to enjoy winter ambience with a group of friends. Bookings are essential. Cost $15. Dates: June 16, 17, 30; July 1, 14, 15, 28, 29; August 11, 12, 25, 26. For further information visit www.pyramidsroad.com.au
Art exhibitions on show
June 28 to August 5: The Stanthorpe Regional Art Gallery will present two exhibitions featuring landscapes.
Hidden Dimensions by Lyn Marshall provides semi-abstract landscape paintings evolved from an interest in Asian art philosophy.
Through Interpreting Elements of Landscape, Rob Raymond shares his joy of our local national parks through his drawings and paintings. Visit www.srag.org.au for further details.
Under Milk Wood
June 15-17: The Little Theatre presents Under Milk Wood by Wales’ most renowned modern poet, Dylan Thomas.
An all-knowing narrator will take you on a poetic tour of the dream, memories, songs, gossip, arguments and work routines of the inhabitants of a fictional Welsh village during one complete day in spring – all at once lyrical, passionate, hilarious, nostalgic and bawdy.
It will be a 7.30pm start on June 15 and 16, 5pm on June 17. Complimentary refreshments at intermission. Sunday includes a special treat of hot soup and crusty bread. Tickets are $20 adults, $15 concession.
Tickets available from Granite News Stanthorpe on (07) 4681 1099.
Wine Masterclass
June 23: Savour three courses of the best Italy has to offer at the Barrel Room Cafe, Ballandean Estate.
Wines will be perfectly matched with each course by Dylan Rhymer, Ballandean Estate’s Winemaker.
He will immerse you in the experience and help you identify the key tasting points of each wine.
Visit www.ballandean estate.com for further information.
Solstice Blues@Bungawarra
June 24: The Solstice Blues@Bungawarra this year will feature the Morningside Fats band, back by popular demand. Led by Paul Renton, one of the shakers and movers of the Brisbane Blues Festival, their sound is a 60s/70s blend of original and classic blues material. Bring a picnic and enjoy the beautiful surrounds of Bungawarra Winery, or just rock up and enjoy the music – wine and cheese platters are on sale at the cellar door. The event will be held from 2pm to 5pm. Entry is $12 adults. For further information visit www.bungawarrawines.com
