There is a thirst by people to get back out into the regions such as the Hastings.

The North Coast Wine Growers Association represents the smallest recognised wine producing region in New South Wales.

It is unlikely that when residents from the Greater Sydney area talk wine, the five members of the Association; Bago Maze and Winery, Cassegrain Winery, Douglas Vale Historic Vineyard, Inneslake Vineyards and Long Point Vineyard spring to mind.

However winemaking in the Hastings River region goes back to 1837 and garnered awards in Bordeaux, Amsterdam, London and what was known as Calcutta in the late 1800's.

How many of us are aware of this let alone people from outside?

We produce notable wines some of which are becoming identified with the region, and can be promoted alongside other regional produce.

Villard Blanc at Douglas Vale, one of the few in Australia to grow the grape which was once prolific in France, Bago's Norton and the increasingly well known Chambourcin, as well as Verdelho and Chardonnay.

Couple this with all the other great fare available right across the region.

There needs to be creative thinking, linking these wineries which also have other attractions, to other small businesses in the area.

No longer can we sit back and argue that people will flock to the area because of what the water has to offer in recreation.

The New South Wales state government has launched a number of campaigns aimed at getting people to re-discover their own backyard.

The different regions will be out banging the drum telling Sydneysiders and other potential tourists why their region should be the place to visit.

There is a greater desire to shop locally and support Australian produce..

So now the time is ripe for the message to get out there and encourage all and sundry to get a taste of what is on offer.

North Coast Wine Growers Association comprises Bago Maze and Winery, Cassegrain Winery, Douglas Vale Historic Vineyard, Inneslake Vineyards and Long Point Vineyard