On Tuesday evening they gathered at the picturesque Bundanon for the celebration's official launch and networking event. The evening featured an abundance of local produce, on a menu crafted by leading chefs from across the Shoalhaven.

At the heart of the celebration was Di Laver; the president of Shoalhaven Food Network Inc. is known to her inner circle the 'Queen of Hospitality'. With help from her team members based around the region, she kick-started Celebration of Food Month.

Hospitality businesses are emerging from a tumultuous time, and Mrs Laver said their goal for Celebration of Food Month was to revitalise the local industry.

"Our industry is bleeding - droughts, fires, COVID, floods, COVID again, rain bombs, catching up with back rents, and now trying to cope across the board with the staffing crisis... that's all the doom and gloom," she said.

"The whole idea of tonight - and Celebration of Food Month - is a way of bringing our industry together to recharge and revitalise and reconnect.

"We are celebrating our South Coast industry."

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Shoalhaven Food Network is also using the Celebration of Food Month to build something for the future.

The group is partnering with Shoalhaven City Council to create a hospitality directory for the region - a go-to resource for both locals and visiting foodies.

Shoalhaven City councillor Serena Copley officially opened the event. A former café and restaurant owner herself, Cr Copley acknowledged the local hospitality sector's contribution to the region.

"We're coming back, and we've got the opportunity. Things are opening up and the Shoalhaven is really coming of age," she said.

"People are finding our place down here, and we're ready to show our region to the world."

All through May, chefs of the Shoalhaven are championing the best of local food and wine.

It is set to be a feast for the senses: there will be long lunches, cooking classes, workshops, food trucks, hatted chef rivalry dinners, and even more unique events.

Events are happening all over the Shoalhaven - from Kangaroo Valley, to Mollymook and beyond.

To find an event, see the Register's Ultimate Guide to Shoalhaven Celebration of Food Month.