A Culinary Journey through Queensland’s Sunshine Pantry
If you’re a food enthusiast with a penchant for fresh, locally-sourced produce, then Queensland’s Sunshine Coast is a destination that should be on your radar, especially the hills above Nambour, uncovering the culinary treasures hidden in the heart of the Sunny Coast.
The spotlight of the show shines on Falls Farm in Mapleton, where Pedro and his team work tirelessly to cultivate a bounty of organic, sustainable, and regenerative vegetables. The farm’s commitment to minimal tillage, cover crops, crop rotation, and soil health is evident in the exceptional taste of their produce.
The farm’s partnership with Mapleton Public House, a charming pub just a few kilometers away, ensures that the vegetables are delivered fresh within days of being harvested. This farm-to-table relationship guarantees that patrons enjoy dishes made with ingredients that are never more than two days old.
At Mapleton Public House, the farm-fresh produce takes center stage on the menu. The team pride themselves on presenting dishes that not only taste fantastic but also showcase the beauty of locally grown vegetables. The culinary philosophy revolves around making vegetables the hero, with protein playing a supporting role.
And here nothing goes to waste, a unique beef tartare made from offcuts that would otherwise go to waste. Even the flatbread is a testament to sustainability, featuring a waste paste made from kale and carrot trimmings.
For those looking to extend their stay in the picturesque hills, The Smith House on Falls Farm offers an enchanting farm stay overlooking the Obi Obi Valley. It’s the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the tranquility of the oldest house in Mapleton while savoring the succulent flavors of Queensland’s Sunshine Pantry.
Whether you’re a foodie seeking a culinary adventure or simply looking to escape to a charming farm stay, the Sunshine Coast’s Falls Farm and Mapleton Public House are sure to leave you with a lasting appreciation for the freshest, most delicious produce Queensland has to offer. Visit the weekender website for details on booking The Smith House or planning a visit to Falls Farm.
QCamel: A Unique Camel Adventure on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast
Take 100 camels, add the Glasshouse Mountains as a backdrop and you’ve got the recipe for a unique and wonderfully engaging day on the Sunny Coast. QCamel, a family-run farm in Bells Creek, is a hub for high-quality camel milk, fetta cheeses, and skincare products. As the world’s only organic camel dairy, their products are world class.
The farm opens its gates every Saturday for the “Camel Cuddle Experience,” where visitors can share carrot sticks and enjoy the affectionate nature of these incredible animals.
In our segment, Yasmin, a camel farmer, introduces us to the entertaining antics of camels like Stormy Jane, a fence-breaking character who keeps the farm buzzing with unexpected surprises. The caravan of camels at QCamel are more than just animals; they are affectionate creatures that greet visitors with kisses and leave a lasting impression on anyone lucky enough to spend time with them.
To extend the adventure, Seven Peaks Farm Stay a luxurious retreat just 20 minutes away. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Glasshouse Mountains, this farm stay offers unique cabins with king-size beds, outdoor spa baths, and private firepits. Guests can immerse themselves in the tranquil 34-acre hobby farm, feed the animals, explore the property, and relax by the campfire.
Whether you’re drawn by the allure of cuddly camels, the health benefits of camel milk, or the serenity of a farm stay, QCamel and Seven Peaks Farm Stay promise an unforgettable journey in the Sunshine Coast’s Sunshine Pantry.
A Taste of Tuscany near Noosa
Noosa is known for blending natural beauty with a touch of luxe – but not all the fancy food and accommodation options are on Hastings Street.
Swap Noosa Heads for hinterland hills and you’ll find Mayan Farm – offering luxury accommodation with stunning, sweeping green views.
Sustainable villas, which sleep up to 8 people, are perched on the hilltop – built from recycled timbers and rammed earth, sourced from the property when owners Jodie and Brett Gowley built a dam.
But make no mistake, it’s a sophisticated stay. Take in the country vistas from the private plunge pool or get up close to resident animals on the working farm.
The sustainable yet luxury theme runs through the food on offer too.
Indulgent Italian-style long table feasts, reminiscent of dining in the Tuscan hills, are among the delicious experiences available to guests. Owner, Jodie, loves to showcase produce from the region with the majority sourced from within 50 kilometres of the property.
Breakfast hampers come jam-packed with local goodies like farm fresh eggs, local preserves and fruit and veg from the kitchen garden.
Or you can cook your own pizza in the alfresco oven.
If you share a passion for paddock-plucked produce, you won’t want to miss The Curated Plate.
The food and drink festival showcasing the Sunshine Pantry’s best restaurants and provisions happens over 10 delicious days from the 26th July to the 4th August.
You’ll want to make the most of the mouthwatering experience by staying a night or two – and Weekender has you covered!
Hit this link to our Facebook page for the chance to win a two-night stay for two people during The Curated Plate at the stunning Hola Eumundi. The boutique accommodation blends contemporary chic with the laidback, artsy vibe of the area.
A perfect base for a delicious weekend!
A Bush Tucker Cruise
Head to Mooloolaba and hop aboard the “Spray of the Coral Coast” for a unique blend of indigenous culture, cuisine and cruising!
Saltwater Ecotours run a range of on-water adventures, including a Bush Tucker Cruise – which showcases a menu of canapes and cocktails inspired by native bush flavours and local indigenous artisan producers.
Sit on the deck of a 115 year old, classic 58 foot gaff-rigged vessel as she plies her way along the Mooloolah River.
Enjoy the choice of 5 different cocktails – from Chilli Margarita to Lemon Myrtle Delight – and savour freshly prepared canapes that feature local seafood and native flavours like Desert Limes and Macadamia Dukkah.
There’s culture to be enjoyed too – with storytelling and didgeridoo playing.
