Taster for 150th

Cardrona was bathed in sunshine yesterday for the seventh annual vintage fair in the former gold-mining village at the foot of the Crown Range.

The fundraising event for next year's 150th goldfield celebrations was a food lover's heaven, with vendors selling breads, pastries, wine, lamb, jams and preserves, fresh fruit icecreams and the piece de resistance - rabbit stew.

At least 100 rabbits were shot last week on Branch Creek Station for the stew prepared at the hotel by chefs Blyth Adams and Nick Nicholson and dished up by Cardrona Community Association member Tim Scurr.

The recipe included "rabbits, onions, vegetables, red wine and a bit of butter", Mr Adams said.

"And you have to cook it two days before you serve it. Leave in the chiller and forget about it. When you reheat it on the day, that's when you season it ... the secret is put the fresh herbs in last. And don't put any bones in. That's when people start spitting them out or break a tooth," he said.

Entertainers included local musicians Martin Curtis and Jamie Robertson and a lively Vanuatuan group. A range of wares such as art, clothing, rugs, candles, books and plants was for sale. The amount raised will be advised.