If you’re like us, food is a big part of planning a getaway and with everyone off enjoying Euro summer adventures the itch to slot in a mini escape is stronger than ever. Luckily for us Queenslanders, an oasis of food experiences exists right in our own backyard. With help from Bundaberg and Gladstone Tourism, we have curated a list of classic and unmissable experiences to satiate your senses and wanderlust.
The Old Station (Creed Grazing Co.)
Escape to the outback for a day (or two) at Creed Grazing Co., a fully working cattle farm just outside the Gladstone region. Tour both Langmorn Station and The Old Station and experience the day to day for generations of cattle farmers. Round out the day with a drink and heart-warming country style meal while enjoying stunning views of Raglan Creek.
Alloway Farm Market
Stocking up and sampling produce from Australia’s most prolific food bowl is an unmissable experience when visiting the Southern Great Barrier Reef Region. Take you and your tastebuds over to Alloway Farm Market in the Bundaberg region. A converted packing shed turned produce oasis, the market is the place to go to. Come face to face with the farm manager Ashley Emerick—and an abundance of local produce. Go bananas and stock up on a tray of the regions infamous figs grown across the road or a bunch of tomatoes from the farm next door.
Windmill Café Bargara
Make sure to pop by the Windmill Café nestled in coastal town of Bargara. Leave with a full stomach and camera roll after enjoying a wholesome meal under the charming Dutch inspired windmill and gardens. Dig into a classic Windmill Stack loaded with mushrooms, halloumi, eggs and bacon and wash it all down with a drip coffee filtered through fresh rainwater.
Ward's Brewery
Experience the heart of Gladstone with a side of classic pub fare at Ward’s Brewery, a 100-year-old soft drink factory turned brewery. Embark on tastings and tours where you’ll learn from a proud community about the ins and outs of the brewing business. Round out the day with a bite from their modern brewpub menu and a refreshing beer.
One Little Farm
Nestled in Bundaberg One Little Farm is an oasis of produce brimming with flowers, treats and local goods. Sourced by owner Anthony nab yourself a tasty souvenir from their shelves of locally sourced gourmet foods and dressings. If you’re feeling peckish after exploring take a seat at the cafe and enjoy a sweet or savoury treat with their delicious coffee.
Amandine Lavender Farm
Take a deep breath in and soak up the tranquility of Amandine Lavender Farm, just five minutes out of coastal Bargara. Nestled on rich red volcanic soil, the family-owned and operated lavender fields are an idyllic place to wander through while learning the health benefits of the fragrant flower. Once you’ve finished taking in the vibrant gardens, head over to the gift shop and nab a few aromatic souvenirs to bring a slice of serenity home.
Tinaberries
Get your hands dirty and fill up on freshly picked strawberries at Tinaberries in Bundaberg. Spend the day wandering strawberry fields and fill a punnet (or two) to devour later. If you’re feeling a bit peckish after all that fruit picking, try a delicious swirl of their homemade ice cream. Take your pick between strawberry or passion fruit, then find a spot on the grass surrounded by gorgeous views of the farm.
Macadamias Australia Visitor Experience
Get up close and among the macadamia trees at the Steinhardt family’s Macadamia Australia Visitor Experience just outside the Bundaberg region. Learn about their sustainable farming processes and decadent chocolate coating facility before heading for a self-guided tour through the enchanting orchards where the first trees were planted. Once you’re full of knowledge, fill up on a curated chefs menu among the gardens at The Orchard Table. Between meals, cleanse your palate with the regions finest macadamias straight from tree to table.
If you’re looking for more experiences to pop into the itinerary, explore more on the Southern Great Barrier Reef regions website.
Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by Bundaberg and Gladstone Tourism and proudly endorsed by Urban List. Thank you for supporting the sponsors who make Urban List possible. Click here for more information on our editorial policy.
Images: Supplied