Horsham’s Linda Billing and John Hunt will tie the knot in front of thousands of people at this weekend’s Grampians Grape Escape. 

The couple, who have been together for six years, were winners of a competition allowing one couple to say ‘I do’ on the main stage of the Halls Gap festival on Saturday.

The event will be made possible thanks to several of the region’s wedding vendors, including Kiata celebrant Marry Me Becky B, flowers from Ararat’s Three Blooms Florist, photos by western Victoria photographer One Day Collective, and wedding co-ordination by Pomonal elopement specialists Wirreanda Farm.

The couple had put planning their big day on hold as they were in the process of IVF, but saw the competition as a sign.

“We thought we’d have a crack at the competition, we didn’t think we were going to win,” Ms Billing said.

“But it was meant to be. We said this year’s our year, and it was too good an opportunity to not take up.

“Not many people can say they got married on the main stage of a wine festival. And we love wine.”

Ms Billing said they got engaged while in Sydney four years ago.

“I was going to ask him that same weekend, but he got in first,” she said.

Joining the couple on stage will be Ms Billing’s daughter, Hayley, who will be flower girl for the nuptials.

People attending the Grampians Grape Escape are invited to join Ms Billing and Mr Hunt at their ceremony at 1.15pm on Saturday.

“The more the merrier to brighten the day,” Ms Billing said.

Other couples can be involved in the love-fest by renewing their vows at the festival.

Wirreanda Farm’s mobile tiny chapel ‘Miss Mabel’ will be set up for couples to renew their vows. For $300, couples will receive an express vow renewal by Marry Me Becky B, six photos from One Day Collective with a backdrop styled by Three Blooms Florist.

People can register their interest at www.wirreandafarm.com.au or visit the Miss Mabel Tiny Chapel at the festival.

The Grape Escape is a not-for-profit food and wine festival showcasing the best of the region’s produce, wine and talent, attracting thousands of visitors each year.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.grampiansgrapeescape.com.au.

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