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Australia’s most authentic food and farming festival returns—bigger and tastier than ever! Scenic Rim Eat Local Month is a celebration of the food, produce and people of this fertile region of South East Queensland where much of our fresh produce is grown.
There’s a host of foodie-focused events taking place across the month of June across the wineries, distilleries, restaurants, cafes and small-acre farms. Areas of the Gold Coast Hinterland including Canungra, Tamborine Mountain and Beechmont are part of the Scenic Rim Eat Local celebrations during the weekend of May 31 - June 2, bringing together chefs, foodies and farmers together to enjoy local flavours and showcase the vast array of delicious products that are made here. Think hands-on workshops, foodie masterclasses, long lunches and paddock-to-plate dining by top Queenland chefs.
It’s the perfect time to take a day trip, or plan a getaway and while you’re on the tasting trail, explore the stunning National Parks, hiking trails, waterfalls and attractions the Hinterland is famous for. Here’s a look at some of the events we’re looking forward too… check the program for more.
Brewmaster For a Day
Work up a thirst crafting the perfect local brew the new Boxer Brewing Co. on Tamborine Mountain. This is an unmissable opportunity to discover the art of beer-making from Head Brewer, Abby Heslop, one of the industry’s best. Guests will join Abby as she creates a brand-new beer from scratch, sharing brewing techniques and insights gained from years of domestic and international brewing experience. While the brew boils, participants will enjoy unlimited tastings direct from the tanks and taps, a rustic lunch and the chance to ask questions and learn more about every step of the brewing process.
When: Friday May 30, 11am - 3pm
Where: Boxer Brewing Co, 79 Main Western Rd, Tamborine Mountain
La Dolce Vita Soiree
Gather friends and family for an authentic Italian dining experience. Begin with a glass of sparkling wine before savouring an antipasto platter of cheese, prosciutto, marinated olives, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh grapes, and crispy focaccia, perfectly paired with Sarabah Estate’s refreshing Pinot Grigio. Watch as the chef prepares handmade pasta before your eyes, filling the air with the aromas of simmering sauces and fresh herbs. End the evening with classic cannoli and a shot of espresso or Limoncello, embracing la dolce vita.
When: Friday May 30, 4 - 8pm
Where: Sarabah Estate, 46 Rymera Rd, Sarabah
Eat Local Market, Growers and Makers Day
If you like your produce plucked from the ground or tree mere hours before you eat it, then to market you must go. This market showcases Tamborine Mountain's freshest, local and seasonal produce. Savour a vibrant day filled with local growers, food artisans, stalls and live music. Bring your picnic blankets and empty eskies and indulge in a day of community spirit and culinary delights.
When: Sunday June 1, 8am -11am
Where: Picnic Real Food Bar – North Stores, 46 Main St, Tamborine Mountain
Foraged, Fired and Farmed Lunch
Set in the newly renovated historic barn at Binna Burra Lodge, this long lunch celebrates wild flavours, locally farmed produce, and the art of cooking over fire. You’ll be welcomed with a drink and grazing table, and then a mouth watering menu, a live charcoal fire pit and a gourmet marshmallow toasting station awaits. Set against the stunning backdrop of Woonoongoora – Lamington National Park, this long lunch is a true celebration of nature’s bounty, fire cooking, and the rich food culture of the Scenic Rim.
When: Saturday May 31, 12 - 3pm
Where: Binna Burra Lodge, 1040 Binna Burra Rd, Beechmont
Spirit of the Mountain
Soak up the Spirit of Tamborine Mountain with family and friends, taking in stunning mountain views and the finest local flavours. A welcome from the Wangeriburra people sets the scene for an afternoon of song, storytelling and spirit. Enjoy live performances from legendary Australian artist, Ben Lee, while sipping on Cauldron’s exceptional range of locally produced spirits and grazing on delicious seasonal hampers made with locally sourced produce and ingredients. Settle in as the sun goes down on this extraordinary flavour-filled day.
When: Saturday May 31, 2 - 6pm
Where: Cauldron Distillery, 89 -123 Hartley Rd, Tamborine Mountain
Tacos & Tipples
Enjoy an afternoon of laid-back vibes and a fiesta of flavours courtesy of mouthwatering tacos by Scenic Rim Food Ambassador, Josue Lopez, and a diverse drink selection, including over 25 wines, craft beer, and hard ciders. With live music and local flavours, all set in Witches Falls picturesque vineyard, it's the perfect day out on Tamborine Mountain. BYO picnic blanket and find a sunny spot among the vines.
When: Sunday June 1, 11am - 4pm
Where: Witches Falls Winery, 79 Main Western Rd, Tamborine Mountain
Winter Citrus Spritz
Don’t miss a perfect afternoon of indulgence, flavour, and local charm at this iconic distillery. Celebrate the citrus season with a refreshing two-hour experience, featuring a Citrus Spritz of your choice - Lemon, Lime, Orange, Grapefruit, or Yuzu - paired with relaxed seating in a tranquil setting. Add a gorgeous grazing platter or a Meet the Maker experience with Head Distiller, Gordon Chalmer, to extend the experience.
When: Sunday June 1, 11am - 1pm
Where: Tamborine Mountain Distillery, 10 McDonnell Rd, Tamborine Mountain
Longest Lunch at O’Reilly’s Canungra Valley Vineyard
This is a long lunch in more ways that one! Not only will you be sipping fine wine and enjoying culinary creations for three hours, but you’ll be seated at a table so long you’ll struggle to see both ends of it. Sink your feet into the cool grass and soak up the serene creekside setting as you tuck into the marvellous menu created by O’Reilly’s executive chef. The meal includes a starter, two share platter courses, and dessert all made with fresh produce and locally sourced ingredients. A scenic and sumptuous feast on a sunny afternoon in this spectacular spot.
When: Sunday June 1, 11.30am - 2.30pm
Where: O’Reilly’s Canungra Valley Vineyards, 852 Lamington National Park Rd, Canungra
If you want to explore more of this beautiful region of the Gold Coast Hinterland check out this blog: Locals Guide to Canungra & Tamborine Mountain
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY
Experience Gold Coast acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we are situated, the Kombumerri families of the Yugambeh Language Region.
We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging, and recognise their continuing connections to the lands, waters and their extended communities throughout Southeast Queensland.