A bold celebration of Kangaroo Island’s food, drink and makers

Winter on Kangaroo Island isn’t something to escape. It’s something to lean into.

The air is crisp. The ocean is alive. Fires crackle and stories unfold as the island slows down and gathers in. This is when Kangaroo Island shows its true character.

Gutsy is a celebration of the people, produce and passion that thrive here in the cooler months. A time to come together over long-table feasts, bold flavours and generous pours. Where smoke drifts from open fires, wines rest patiently in barrel, and spirits are shared in good company.

It’s not always easy creating on Kangaroo Island. The distance, the elements, the isolation. But it is exactly this that shapes what’s made here. Producing food and drink with depth, character and a story worth telling.

This is Island Life in winter. Honest, flavourful and a little unexpected.

So bring your coat. Settle in by the fire. And experience Gutsy Kangaroo Island. It's not your average winter.

Gutsy Kangaroo Island

Events in June

  • Daughters of the Hive

    Saturday 6 June, 2:00pm - 5:00pm

    An intimate winter gathering that brings together botanical printing, tastings and storytelling, guided by the next generation of the Clifford family. Centred on the blossoms that sustain the hive through winter, guests are invited to explore the journey from flower to honey to table. The experience unfolds around a shared table with generous honey-inspired grazing and drinks, offering a warm, creative Kangaroo Island afternoon filled with flavour, connection and thoughtful seasonal surprises.

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  • Winter Solstice Long Table Feast

    Saturday 20 June 2026
    From 5:30pm

    Celebrate the longest night of the year with an unforgettable Winter Solstice Dinner at Mercure Kangaroo Island Lodge. Join guest chef Salvatore Pepe for a shared-table dining experience showcasing handcrafted pasta, local meat, marron and seafood, and the rich flavours of Southern Italy. Best known as one of the founders of Adelaide’s iconic Cibo Espresso, Chef Salvatore brings decades of culinary expertise to this warm and immersive four-course feast. Enjoy a complimentary Aperol Spritz on arrival and settle in for an evening of great food, conversation and community. Seats are limited.

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  • Whisky by the Fire

    NEW DATE: Sunday 28 June, 12:30pm

    A cosy winter afternoon of fine food and premium whisky, hosted by the team at Kangaroo Island Spirits. Guests will be among the first to taste a new whisky release, paired with a curated three-course dinner. Set around shared long-table seating, the experience offers a warm, social atmosphere with insights into local distilling and a celebration of Kangaroo Island flavour.

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Events in July

  • Sunday Vibes at Dudley Wines - Winter Series

    Sunday 5 July 2026

    A winter Sunday series at Dudley Wines where the day begins with a guided wellness session, then opens out into a relaxed, social afternoon of street-style food, local makers stalls, and live music.

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  • Mitho at Millie's

    Sunday 5 July, 6:00pm

    Experience a warming winter evening of bold flavours and local produce. Hosted by in-house chef Dipesh, this special event showcases a fusion of Nepalese cuisine and Kangaroo Island ingredients, with a generous spread of momos, curries and shared dishes designed to nourish and satisfy.

    Set within the welcoming surrounds of Millie Mae’s Pantry, this Sunday evening gathering offers more than just a meal. It is a chance to slow down, connect and enjoy good company over thoughtfully prepared food. Whether dining in the cosy indoor space or settling into the garden setting, guests can expect a relaxed, community-focused experience that celebrates flavour, comfort and island hospitality.
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  • False Cape Wines 'Seaborne & Shipwrecked' degustation dinner

    Saturday 11 July 2026, 6:00pm to 10:30pm

    Settle in for a winter evening of maritime tales, exceptional local food and fine wine at False Cape Wines.

    Seaborne & Shipwrecked brings together a four-course degustation by local chef Marion Trethewey, showcasing Kangaroo Island seafood and seasonal produce, alongside live music, stories and seafaring folklore from Captain Salty and Mrs Captain.

    Warm, intimate and full of island character, this is a unique Kangaroo Island winter experience not to be missed. Tickets are strictly limited. Book early to avoid disappointment, as this unique event is expected to sell out quickly.

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  • Farmer's Feast at the Penneshaw Pub

    Saturday 18 July, 7:30pm - 9:30pm

    A relaxed winter evening celebrating the best of Kangaroo Island’s produce. Hosted at the Penneshaw Pub, this three-course dinner showcases locally sourced KI lamb, paired with tastings from Grasshopper Brewing.

    Guests will hear directly from a local lamb farmer, offering insights into life on the land and the story behind the produce. Set in a warm, social atmosphere, this experience brings together great food, local beer and authentic island storytelling.

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Events in August

  • Sunday Vibes at Dudley Wines - Winter Series

    Sunday 2 August 2026

    A winter Sunday series at Dudley Wines where the day begins with a guided wellness session, then opens out into a relaxed, social afternoon of street-style food, local makers stalls, and live music.

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  • Ocean's Bounty with Kangaroo Island Oysters at the Penneshaw Pub

    Saturday 22 August, 7:30pm - 9:30pm

    A winter celebration of Kangaroo Island’s pristine waters and premium local produce. Hosted alongside Kangaroo Island Oysters, guests will hear from Todd as he shares insights into the realities of oyster and seafood farming on the island.

    Enjoy a thoughtfully curated three-course seafood menu, paired with wines from Springs Road Wines, in a warm and social setting. This experience brings together fresh flavours, local stories and a true taste of Kangaroo Island.

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Warm fires, full bellies, live music. This is Gutsy.

Useful links

Plan Your Gutsy Weekend

How to get here, the best places to stay on Kangaroo Island and why winter is the 'In Season'.

  • Island Stays

    From seaside holidays to premium luxury Kangaroo Island accommodation. Whether you're in…

  • The In Season

    Kangaroo Island winter is the in season. Fewer crowds, winter wildlife, cosy stays and…