Scenic Rim's food tourism is on the rise

The Scenic Rim's reputation as an innovative food destination has had a boost thanks to grant funding announced by the Hon Stirling Hinchliffe MP, Minister for Tourism Industry Development and Innovation and Minister for Sport, today.

Under its Growing Tourism Infrastructure Fund, the State Government has granted $990,000 in funding towards Stage 2 of the North Stores development on Tamborine Mountain, which will include a purpose-built workshop and event space with cooking school facilities, due for completion late 2021.

Scenic Rim Mayor Greg Christensen said it was exciting news, not just for the proponents, but for the whole Scenic Rim.

"It's initiatives like this that continue to put the Scenic Rim on the map for our award-winning fresh produce, fine products and outstanding wine and beverages," he said.

"Not only will this new venture translate to an authentic experience connecting visitors with fresh seasonal produce, but also provide jobs for local residents and generate economic returns for the region.

"Both Brenda and Sonja are well known in the Scenic Rim for their long and proud association with the 'eat local' movement.

"Brenda is an experienced chef and restaurateur, a Regional Food Ambassador for the Scenic Rim and a staunch advocate for the annual Scenic Rim Eat Local Week.

"She also co-authored the two coffee table cookbooks Eat Local: Food, Farming and Conversation in the Scenic Rim."

Grant fund recipient Brenda Fawdon said she and her business partner, Sonja Drexler, were thrilled to receive the Growing Tourism Infrastructure Fund for Stage 2 of their North Stores food tourism development.

"We are so excited to receive the grant and extremely grateful to the Queensland Government for this opportunity," she said.

"Sonja and I have spent the past couple of years championing local produce, which we have sourced directly from Scenic Rim and local growers on a weekly basis and sold at the Gold Coast Farmers' Markets.

"Sonja, who is also the talented designer of the North Stores building, and I are literally building on and cementing our connection with the region in bricks and mortar.

'We are committed to growing our business focusing on the Scenic Rim, and supporting the fabulous local producers and products of our region.

"As well as dropping by for a coffee or to pick up a picnic box, visitors will soon be able to attend a workshop or event in the purpose-built space."

Cr Christensen said Council was pleased to advocate for the project and welcomed the new operation to the Scenic Rim's existing array of tourism and food experiences.

"The new venture aligns perfectly with the aims of the Scenic Rim Tourism Strategy and the Scenic Rim Regional Prosperity Strategy, and will provide yet another great option for our visitors, while creating jobs for our local people," he said.

Council officers are working with the proponents to ensure the project complies with all Council regulations.

Image: Brenda Fawdon and Sonja Drexler are thrilled to expand their North Stores food tourism development.