Set in the foothills of the Great Dividing Range, the Scenic Rim is a natural paradise of lush mountains, World-Heritage-protected parks, and a rich farm gate culture.
But there’s more to the Scenic Rim than scenery. Blessed with rich alluvial soil, this fertile volcanic caldera produces Australia’s finest produce. From pork to poultry and beetroot to beans (plus boatloads of carrots), Scenic Rim ingredients set a benchmark for quality.
Curious local foodies have seen the Scenic Rim embrace “farm gate” culture. Akin to an open garden, these family-friendly, community-driven events have producers swing open their barnyard doors. From wineries to breweries and dairy farms, a myriad of sub-sectors have gotten on board.
Here’s everything Southeast Queensland foodies need to know about Scenic Rim farm gate culture.
Top-Notch Ingredients
High-quality ingredients form the backbone of the Scenic Rim farm gate scene. Rather than stock up on bog-standard groceries from ethically questionable supermarkets, true foodies seek out quality eats. Farm gates let you purchase top-quality produce directly from reputable providers, guaranteeing freshness and flavour with every bite.
A Passion for Produce
Scenic Rim producers are passionate about their craft. Every ingredient has a story, whether it’s honey, fresh veggies, or dry-aged meat. Farm gates see you communicate directly with the producer, learning the history, ethics, and origins of the agricultural process. These insightful conversations let the consumer form a more meaningful connection with their food.
Eco-Conscious Ethos
From composting to waste recycling and renewable energy, food producers can protect the environment in numerous ways. Many small-scale Scenic Rim farmers adopt these strict eco-friendly practices to preserve their delicate lands. Consumers can witness this first-hand to verify authenticity and make informed choices.
Supporting Regional Agriculture
We’ve all heard the stories of ruthless supermarkets undermining hard-working Aussie farmers. Farm gating lets you bypass the corporate behemoths and support regional suppliers instead. Purchasing produce straight from the provider ensures every dollar goes back to those who lovingly create your food.
Scenic Rim Farm Gate Events
Keen to give Scenic Rim farm-gating a go?
A plethora of producers offer insightful weekend experiences. Check with the provider before heading out.
- Tommerups Dairy Farm (Kerry)
- Witches Chase Cheese (North Tamborine)
- Fortitude Brewing (North Tamborine)
- Witches Falls (Tamborine Mountain)
- Masons Wines (Tamborine Mountain)
- Towri Sheep Cheeses (Allenview)
- Freshwater Australian Crayfish Traders (Tarome)
- Valley Pride Produce (Charlwood)
- Scenic Rim Organics (Kalbar)
- Scenic Rim Brewery (Mount Alford)
- Kalfresh (Kalbar)
- Summer Land Camels (Summerland Camels)
Regional foodie festivals also offer a taste of the local farm gate scene. Scenic Rim Eat Local Month entails hundreds of culinary-themed events each June, including numerous farm gates. The bi-annual Scenic Rim Farm Gate Trail (next event July 28th, 2024) spans dozens of participants from all over the region.
Enjoy a Scenic Rim Farm Gate Experience with Kiff & Culture
Avid oenophiles can join us on a fun-filled vineyard tour of the Scenic Rim. We visit three exquisite Tamborine Mountain wineries and an award-winning local distillery in this tipsy farm gate-style tour.
Or, if you’re heading towards Northern NSW, many of our Tweed and Byron Hinterland foodie tours include authentic farm gate experiences.
