Fresh Fodder is among seven Orange producers keen to show off their range, along with Philip Shaw Wines, Brangayne Wines, Faisan Wines, Ross Hill Wines and Charles Sturt University Winery, along with Millamolong Polo Club.

Expanding awareness of their brand was a big reason  why Fresh Fodder owners Max and Fiona Schofield decided to take part in the expo.

“We can get out to talk to people about our products,” Mr Schofield said.

The Fresh Fodder business only started six years ago with one product, its Taramosalata dip, produced in a garage.

Since then, the brand  has expanded to include a range of dips as well as pasta sauces, antipasto and salads.

Mr Schofield said he hoped the Canberra expo would help expand their business and that of other Orange producers.

The couple can boast having more than 500 retailers in NSW, Victoria, Queensland and Western Australia selling their products, but Mr Schofield has bigger dreams than this.

“We’re looking to double our size over the next 12 to 18 months,” he said.

“It’s a really competitive market we play in so we need to get our name out there.”

Taste Orange chief executive officer Rhonda Sear said she wanted the people of Canberra to come along to the expo to sample the region’s produce and wines.

“The ultimate aim is of course to seduce them enough to come to the region to visit,” she said.

“We want the people of Canberra to be wowed by our fabulous region.

“As soon as they enter the expo we want them to stop, talk and taste.”

Producers from Bathurst, Mudgee and Cowra will also take part in the Taste of Central Ranges section of the expo.

Canberra Food and Wine Expo will be held at the National Convention Centre from February 14 to 16.

nadine.morton@fairfaxmedia.com.au