It’s never been more important to celebrate where our food comes from, and there’s no better way to do that than at the Scenic Rim Farm Gate Trail, returning on Sunday March 29 and Sunday July 26.
On this highly anticipated day, farmers, producers, winemakers, brewers, distillers and flavour-makers across the region throw open their gates, inviting visitors to step behind the scenes of one of Queensland’s most celebrated food bowls. It’s a rare opportunity to learn about farming from the farmers themselves, and leave with full stomachs and an even fuller appreciation for the Scenic Rim, its produce and its people.
There are two new Farm Gates joining the March trail, bringing the total to 24 farms and on-farm experiences. Among them is Northview Highlands, home to ah-mazing miniature Highland “coos”, alongside the new brewery – Boonah Brewing Co in Boonah. Another must-visit highlight is the new hay maze at Elia’s Garden.
Expect overflowing larders, freshly picked produce straight from the paddock, jams and chutneys made with love, olives and cheese, milk and honey, garlic and carrots for days. Add farm walks, wine tastings, gin flights, beer sips, flower farm fun, lamb pats, alpaca cuddles and goat giggles. Throw in big skies, fresh air, winding country roads and dog-friendly stops, and you’ve got the perfect excuse to dust out the esky and plan a day of fresh flavour, farmer chats and very full bellies.
At just over an hour from both Brisbane and the Gold Coast – it’s the perfect day trip, or weekend away.
• Information, maps and itineraries at Home – Destination Scenic Rim
• The order of the Farm Gates listed below corresponds to the numbers of the Farm Gate Trail map, itineraries included below the list.
• Free registrations are required for this event.
Here’s some of the FARM GATES OPEN ON SUNDAY, 29 MARCH – 9am to 3pm:
Summer Land Camels
Visit Australia’s largest Camel Dairy for an authentic paddock to plate experience. Free entry, camel feeding and petting, cafe, farm shop, farm tour & taste, camel rides, cameleer experience and more. Try their award-winning products including Camel Milk, Camel Feta, Camel Milk and Honey Vodka and Camel Milk Skincare. An unforgettable experience! 8 Charles Chauvel Dr, Harrisville. (07) 5467 1707
Heritage Poultry
Step into authentic farm life on this picturesque 60-acre property in Harrisville. A family-run operation with roots in poultry farming going back to 1945, guests will be warmly welcomed and then wander through the animal nursery feeding goats, sheep, chickens and ducks, enjoy cuddles with silkies, and hold chicks and ducklings. With coffee brewing and a sausage sizzle on the go, this Farm Gate offers the chance to connect with the heritage and passion behind one of the region’s longstanding poultry producers. 57 Kalbar Peak Crossing Road Harrisville 0412 507 748
Naughty Little Kids
Naughty Little Kids goat dairy make cheese and gelati using the milk from their herd of goats. All products are gluten, egg, nut, soy, coconut, and gelatine free. Bring and esky and ice brick. Attention seeking goats will be looking for pats and you can purchase a bottle to feed them. 1531 Ipswich Boonah Road, Peak Crossing
Scenic Rim Farm Shop (dog friendly)
Welcome to the Scenic Rim Farm Shop and Café, a stunning local produce hub and home to a famous 120 jacaranda tree. Shop for a range of locally grown produce at Fifth Acre Organics, there’s the farm shop with produce and artisan gifts, and gorgeous labels at her Herd. Enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Book online to avoid the lunch queue and guarantee a seat. 541 Kents Lagoon Road, Kalbar 0493 437 220
Elderflower Farm
Elderflower Farm is a boutique flower farm and shop set in the grounds of the Scenic Rim Farm Shop. Stroll around the beautiful flower field and enjoy shopping in the rustic flower and garden shop. Have fun making bouquets. 541 Kents Lagoon Road, Kalbar 0427 345 528
Ellia’s Garden
Ellia’s Garden is a market garden at the base of the Great Dividing Range. Visitors can pick their own seasonal organic produce, feed farm animals, and explore their famous HAY BALE MAZE, all set against stunning mountain views. Pack a picnic blanket and chill by the creek. 1819 Tarome Road, Moorang
Valley Pride Produce
Valley Pride Produce is a fifth generation, family owned, vegetable growing farm just five minutes from Moogerah Dam. Growing a wide range of green leafy bunch vegetables this family pour their heart and soul into growing produce and they love the lifestyle that farming offers. 83 Scholl Rd, Charlwood, 0423 943 988
Northview Highlands
For the very first time, Northview Highlands will open its gates inviting visitors to step into a world of shaggy Highland cattle, striking Valais Blacknose sheep and charming (and naughty) pygmy goats. This family-run farm has built a devoted following for its ethical breeding practices, hands-on experiences and genuine country hospitality – expect up-close animal encounters, heartfelt storytelling and a chance to learn about heritage breeds that are as beautiful as they are important. Bookings essential via website.
223 Charlwood Road, Aratula. ph:0403 477 312
Vanbery Jam Co.
Perched high on a hill with sweeping rural views, visitors to Vanbery Jam Co. will meet Helen and Jess, enjoy billy tea and hot scones with a dollop of Rosella Jam! Their stunning Rosellas products are grown on their farm and will be available. 503 Ganthorpe Road, Mount Alford 0409 646 280
The Shed Cafe – Rathlogan
The Shed Cafe is a family owned business located in the foothills of Mount Barney. Follow the driveway, The Shed Cafe is on the top of the hill where there are olive trees. Olive oils, table olives products are made from the olive grove on the premises and are 100 per cent Australian owned and made. 4 Upper Logan Road, Rathdowney. 0403163151
BOONAH BREWING CO – BOONAH
The region’s newest brewery, Boonah Brewery Co at The Commercial Hotel in Boonah will be hosting free brewery tours – booking are recommended via the website. Foodies are invited to stay a little longer with the hotel offering a two-night accommodation package and complimentary welcome pack. Use the code FarmGateTrailMAR when booking. 39 High Street Boonah. Phone: 0402 005 261
Roastbeef and the Frog at The Overflow Estate 1895 (dog friendly)
Enjoy wonderful locally produced wines and delicious food from Roastbeef and the Frog menu or grab a picnic blanket and enjoy a wine and Charcuterie board on the lawn – live music and spectacular views.
1660 Beaudesert Boonah Road, Wyaralong. 0455 221 895
Towri Sheep Cheeses (dog friendly)
Walk through this Farm Gate and into the world of sheep, cheese and a gorgeous garden and farm shop. Enjoy takeaway cheese platters, scrumptious takeaway lunch options, full access to the Towri Shop, tours and milking demonstrations. They can’t wait to see ewe! 206 Saville Road Allenview. 0403 463 429
Christmas Creek Garlic
After a devastating shed fire and then flooding, the family at Christmas Creek Garlic are the definition of resilient farmers. They grow chemical free garlic and also have incredible raw/smoked/black garlic, seasonings and rubs. 316 Christmas Creek Road, Christmas Creek
O’Reilly’s Canungra Valley Vineyard
Bring a picnic blanket and stay to try O’Reilly’s wine and enjoy a picnic on the creek with a $10 tasting paddle (Usually $20). 852 Lamington National Park Rd, Canungra. (07) 5543 4011
Mountview Alpaca Farm
Meet the Alpacas, walk the alpacas and picnic with the alpacas! Located next to O’Reilly’s Canungra Valley Vineyard. Create life-long memories (and selfies!) and reconnect with family and nature! 852 Lamington National Park Rd, Canungra, 0490 973 865
Cauldron Distillery (dog friendly)
Drop into the award-winning Cauldron Distillery for locally made spirits in a prohibition-inspired cocktail bar while taking in the views of beautiful established vineyards and lush green meadows. There’ll be music, lots of tastings and great street food. 89-123 Hartley Rd, Tamborine Mountain. 0403 481 463
Witches Falls Winery (dog friendly)
One of the most beautiful wineries on the mountain – sip their ciders and wines, try a cheeseboard, take in the vines, chill to music. Book a table or BYO picnic blanket and enjoy a glass of wine in the relaxing vineyards. Bookings Essential. 79 Main Western Rd, Tamborine Mountain. 07 5545 2609
Boxer Brewing (dog friendly)
Onsite next door to Witches Falls Winery, Boxer Brewing is Tamborine Mountain’s newest brewery! Cheers to that! Home to The Kennel’ Tap Room and Sports Bar and the Brewery Door, it serves the Cerveza, IPA, Lazy Ale and a Pale Ale.
