Australia's Festival of Porridge
2026 Pearly Spurtle - Festival of Porridge
A sold-out crowd filled Pearl Beach as the emotive sound of pipes and drums from the Gosford City Pipe Band led a parade through the village and back to the Pearl Beach Memorial Hall.
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Bacon butties sizzled on the BBQ, while the porridge and toppings bar offered a tempting mix of sweet and savoury creations. Guests enjoyed Red Mill Rums and Hughes & Hughes wines, while Dad’s Oats showcased Australian-grown oats and demonstrated how to roll fresh oats at home.
Visitors browsed Pearly Spurtle merchandise and locally made wares, including handmade spurtles to take home.
Throughout the day, audiences met the competitors, asked questions and sampled their creations as the heats unfolded. Our judging panel featured Caroline Velik, 2025 Golden Spurtle Specialty Dish Winner; Sydney-based Scottish chef Karen McPherson; and Central Coast Mayor and proud Scot Lawrie McKinna.
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The day concluded with the announcement of the 2026 winners, live music from local band The Pearlers and Scottish-inspired dancing — a fitting finale to the inaugural Festival of Porridge.each: a celebration inspired by Scottish tradition, embraced by an Australian coastal community and delivered with plenty of good food, generosity and fun.
