Cabin Fever Bringing Heat To South West

  • Food and wine festival Cabin Fever returns to WA’s South West this weekend
  • Popular event provides a winter tourism boost for the Margaret River Region and beyond
  • Event supports the Cook Labor Government’s economic diversification strategy, helping to support local jobs and businesses

The much-loved Cabin Fever festival kicks off today, bringing a vibrant program of world-class food, wine, and entertainment to Western Australia’s Margaret River Region this winter.

Running across 10 days, the festival features more than 40 events in Margaret River, Busselton, and surrounding areas, showcasing the very best of the region’s food, wine, and hospitality offerings.

Now in its 10th year, Cabin Fever continues to grow in popularity, with 17 events already sold out ahead of opening day and additional sessions added to meet the strong demand.

Supported by the Cook Labor Government’s Regional Events Program, Cabin Fever is a drawcard event for out-of-region visitors and provides an important boost to local businesses during the traditionally quieter winter months.

A highlight of this year’s program is the relocation of the festival hub, The Cabin, to Saltwater Busselton, providing a new setting for festivalgoers.

Fan favourites including the iconic Cheese Toastie Battle and Blazing Brews at Beerfarm return in 2026, alongside a diverse mix of new and returning events.

Events like Cabin Fever play an important role in driving visitation to regional Western Australia, while contributing to the Cook Labor Government’s economic diversification strategy.

Find out more at cabinfeverfest.com

As stated by Acting Tourism Minister Dr Tony Buti:

“Cabin Fever is a fantastic showcase of the South West’s thriving food, wine, and hospitality scene, and it’s great to see the event kick off for another year.

“The Cook Labor Government is proud to support regional events like Cabin Fever, which deliver real economic benefits and encourage visitation to the South West throughout the year.

“Regional events like this play an important role in our government’s economic diversification strategy, helping to support local jobs and businesses while showcasing Western Australia as an exciting holiday destination.”

As stated by Acting Regional Development and South West Minister Don Punch:

“I’m pleased to see Cabin Fever return for its 10th year, showcasing the outstanding food, wine, and hospitality that make the South West one of Western Australia’s premier tourism destinations.

“Cabin Fever is a key part of our government’s Regional Events Program, which supports events that drive visitors to regional Western Australia, boost local economies, and create opportunities for businesses and communities.

“The festival continues to attract strong visitor demand during the winter season, supporting local hospitality and tourism operators, sustaining jobs, and generating economic activity across the South West.”

/Public Release. View in full here.