Watch out Noosa, there’s a new contender for cool kid on the coast as this seaside town embraces its cultural heart.
Caloundra has always had a thriving arts community but as Alana discovered, it’s about to get a whole lot more recognition.
Nina Shadforth, Senior Curator at Caloundra Regional Gallery, is the first to admit they are bursting at the seams with art waiting to be displayed. Now the Sunshine Coast Council has announced funding for a new, larger gallery to cater for the region.
It’s part of Caloundra’s art hub which includes the Motel Caloundra, that’s just been re-opened after its stylish makeover. This boutique property is in a prime position– around the corner from the Caloundra Regional Gallery and across the road from The Events Centre.
Apart from its interior transformation, this nine room motel is the Sunshine Coast’s first net zero accommodation – 47 solar panels on the room and a battery bank are designed to cater for its energy needs. A guilt-free holiday that doesn’t cost the earth.
But no trip to the coast would be complete without a visit to the area’s biggest drawcard – the beautiful beaches and Alana has found the perfect spot to take it all in.
The Kings Beach Surf Club has been watching over these waters for 90 years. Its restaurant offers grandstand views of the ocean, while providing first-class meals to its patrons – and the money all goes back to supporting the volunteers who keep the beach safe. A stylish way to top off a taste of Caloundra culture.
Just over an hour north of Brisbane, or 30 minutes from the coast lies the Sunshine Coast hinterland – and if you haven’t been there lately we think it’s worth another look.
The region is littered with artisan villages, filled with galleries showcasing all kinds of local art and craft. For nature lovers waterholes and walking trails abound and foodies are spoilt for choice.
Liz Cantor visited one of the newest places to stay on the range – a one-off boutique apartment right in the heart of Montville.
The Montrose apartment – at the iconic water wheel – is a dream realized for its owners Shaun and Clare Crouch – and offers the ideal place to base yourself for your hinterland stay. It’s mix of comfort, and touches of luxury make it perfect for any special occasion.
And a picturesque 20 minute drive down the range will land you at the Woombye Cheese Company – home to handcrafted artisan cheese.
5 of their 6 cheeses are award-winning – but the jewel in the crown is the Blackall gold – washed rind cheese – recently taking out cheese of the year at Australian Grand dairy Awards.
Well worth the drive don’t you think?
Fancy a roll up on your local lawn bowls green? Thanks to the brains behind Your Mates Brewery, this traditional sport is getting a very modern shake-up.
Your Mates Bowls Pub recently opened its doors in the suburb of Cooroy. You’ll find owners Matt and Christen there most days, strictly on business of course!
“For a couple of guys who own a bowls club we’re probably not the best bowlers but that’s not what bowling’s about,” said Christen. “It’s for everyone, all abilities.”
The club is turning convention on its head with craft beer on tap. Lawn bowls, boutique beer – does it get any better?
Yes it does – with lunch!
Now don’t panic, a lawn bowls club lunch doesn’t have to mean a soggy schnitzel or a chewy steak. Your Mates Bowls Club serves up beautiful fresh produce, and as a bonus, it’s local!
“We work quite closely with local suppliers, they often bring things to the table especially with primary producers.”
Whether it’s for bowls, beer or sheer beauty – when you do roll up to the Sunny Coast, you’d be crazy not to stay a while.
Luckily, Kurui Cabin is mere minutes from Your Mates.
This architecturally designed retreat will have you melting into relaxation from the moment you set foot through the door.
The impressive plunge pool overlooks a small forest which is part of Kurui Cabin’s partnership with Reforest, the Sunshine Coast’s sustainability program aimed at reducing the carbon footprint of your trip to the region.
Got to love that!
Take a journey back in time on the Mary Valley Rattler’s Silver Bullet High Tea Experience. Departing from Gympie every Friday at 10am, this two-hour journey will take you through the scenic Mary Valley, winding your way through hills and over bridges. Enjoy a glass of bubbles, locally made sweet and savoury treats, and unlimited tea and coffee as you soak up the stunning scenery.
The Mary Valley is a region of lush green hills and valleys, dotted with charming country towns. As you travel on the Silver Bullet, you’ll pass through the villages of Dagun and Amamoor, and you’ll have the chance to catch a glimpse of the region’s abundant wildlife.
The Silver Bullet High Tea Experience is the perfect way to combine a love of history and heritage with a delicious afternoon tea. The train’s beautifully restored carriages offer a silver-service experience, and the food is all locally sourced and prepared.
Located in the Noosa Hinterland town of Kin Kin, Eastwell Farms is a family-run farm that focuses on regeneratively farmed grass-fed beef and growing gourmet mushrooms. Visitors to the farm can learn more about their sustainable farming practices and purchase produce directly from the farm.
Eastwell Farm is also a supplier to many local restaurants, and they offer collaborative themed dinners on the farm. In addition, they are involved in the new Farm to Fork Adventure Tour of the region.
Amamoor Lodge is a quiet and relaxing boutique country holiday accommodation located just outside of Amamoor Village. Perfectly situated to explore the natural beauty of the area, guests can enjoy hiking, riding, or driving, or simply relax and enjoy the tranquility of the lodge. Amamoor Lodge is perfect for individuals, couples, business travelers, and small groups. It is also ideal accommodation for train and history buffs, as the Mary Valley Rattler steams into Amamoor Station three times a week. Guests can ride the train to Gympie and stay at Amamoor Lodge, or vice versa.
The Gympie Region is a beautiful and diverse region with something to offer everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, heritage, food, or nature, you’re sure to find something to love.
The Mary Valley Rattler Silver Bullet High Tea Experience is a unique and unforgettable way to experience the region. The Silver Bullet train is a beautifully restored heritage train, and the food is all locally sourced and prepared. The journey takes you through some of the most scenic parts of the Mary Valley, and you’re sure to have a wonderful time.
If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable travel experience, be sure to check out the Gympie Region. You won’t be disappointed!
If you are flying into the Sunshine Coast – there are regular direct services from Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide. And getting to the coast just got even easier with Bonza services from Albury, Avalon, Cairns, Mackay, Mildura, Newcastle, Rockhampton, Townsville and the Whitsunday Coast.
To plan your next Sunshine Coast getaway head to visitsunshinecoast.com
