Over the recent glorious long weekend, The Co-Op at Gerringong lit up with the Distilled festival showcasing a talented selection of local and visiting distilleries and artists.

The Co-Op owner, Kiama Deputy Mayor Melissa Matters was thrilled to see hundreds of people out and about in the beautiful winter weather to sample some of the local delights and some great music.

“We were lucky with the weather and the crowds,” Cr Matters said.

Among the distilleries on show were several from the Illawarra, South Coast and Southern Highlands regions, including Tara Distillery, Wolf and Woman Distillery, Old Salt Distillery and Merrigangs.

“There were a couple of different changes we had to make with the licensing, so we had to adapt. It still went well,” Cr Matters said.

“It is really good for other businesses to come in and have a few hundred people have access to sample their products. I think they are really happy.

“People love to come down and have samples.

“A lot of locals came on Sunday (to Distilled), with many out of town, I think overall it is really fabulous to see that.”

Local emerging singer-songwriter Olivia Coggan was one of the 15 musical performers who entertained the crowds.

“People obviously love music, and it is good to have options around. We want more of that for people to come and enjoy some live music,” Cr Matters said.

“Other events like the winery had a great turn-out, and I’m pleased that there’s no rain for them as well. I think it is just fabulous for businesses to have all the venues ‘happening’ and people going in between venues.”

With many events held across the region on the long weekend, it highlights the region’s strengths with the engagement from locals and tourists.

It is estimated that around 400 people attended the Distilled event over the two days.