Queensland's tastiest food bowl will come alive in August as Taste Bundaberg Festival returns with a 10-day program jam-packed with the region's freshest produce, celebrity chefs, markets, masterclasses, and tantalising dining experiences.

Launching Friday 30 August, the program showcases the region's vibrant food producers and chefs with over 30 events across the Bundaberg food bowl inviting culinary enthusiasts to discover where iconic tipples and great taste grows.

Bringing together the region's finest culinary talents and rich agricultural tapestry, highlights of the culinary calendar include the abundant Taste Bundaberg Market, the return of Macadamias Australia's Farm Flavours Picnic, and gala dinner with celebrity chef, Colin Fassnidge.

In addition to the gala dinner, Bundaberg Regional Council Mayor Helen Blackburn said a new celebrity chef would add extra sparkle to this year's program.

“Justine Schofield has joined the festival as a new Taste Ambassador, bringing with her a wealth of experience from her time on MasterChef and her popular show and books, Everyday Gourmet.

“Justine will be cooking with the region's freshest produce on the Taste Bundaberg Market cooking stage, as well hosting a masterclass for amateur chefs looking to enhance their skills in the kitchen.”

Mayor Blackburn said the festival's focus on the region's growers and producers was a wonderful opportunity for everyone to support the local agricultural community.

“We have introduced the Taste Trail this year with an interactive map of over 20 growers, producers and chefs who are selling direct to the public from their farm stalls and shop fronts.

“We are so lucky to have an abundance of fresh produce in the region, and it's important that the community support each other by buying local.”

Council's Tourism, Airport and Information Technology Services portfolio spokesperson Councillor Steve Cooper said it was terrific to see new events and hosts join the program along with returning favourites.

“We've got some great new events this year including A Night on the Greens at Sandhills Sports Club, complete with barefoot bowls, and a wonderful seafood-focused night, Sunset Feast at Surf Club, on the beautiful Bargara coast,” Cr Cooper said.

“There are also opportunities to dine at working farms and to meet local growers and producers, giving attendees a unique look into the agricultural heart of our community in a way that is rarely open to the public.

“I would encourage everyone to check out the program online and mark Wednesday 3 July in the calendar to buy your tickets.”

With events for everyone, Bundaberg Tourism CEO, Katherine Reid encourages food and drink enthusiasts to dive deeper into the region's abundant offerings during the festival.

“Taste Bundaberg Festival is an embodiment of our regions commitment to celebrating local producers, makers, and artisans, with opportunities to meet the makers themselves during 10 tantalising days of events”

”With our unique proximity to the Southern Great Barrier Reef, temperate climate, and rich fertile soil, the region is perfectly placed for a true culinary adventure that goes beyond what's on your plate or in your glass”. [CR1] 

The Taste Bundaberg Festival event program is available now at tastebundabergfestival.com.au.

Tickets will go on sale Wednesday 3 July.

ENDS

MEDIA ENQUIRIES:

Email: brccommunications@bundaberg.qld.gov.au