Taste of the Tablelands Festival is on October 14 and it’s an annual homage to all that is good in this part of Tropical North Queensland, especially the produce that comes from its rich, red fertile soil.
In the past the event has put politicians behind bars (serving drinks), racked up visitor numbers in the thousands and raised thousands more for Rotary Club projects in the region. Definitely a win-win-win.
It’s a bit of a traditional picnic day crossed with Master Chef. Taste of the Tablelands is new foods and new experiences, trying and buying in the one spot. The event premieres scores of innovative products, which you can sample for the very first time.
Chef’s Challenge @tastesofthetablelands
Plus there is a lot to explore – this area produces more than 40 types of food crops from basil to beef, pineapple to pork and macadamias to melons.
There is Atherton Tablelands’ cheese, chocolates and ice cream to appease the appetite and cool drinks to wash it down including craft beers and local wines and spirits.
The local coffee – actually grown in the region – is a crowd favourite. Tastes of the Tablelands is for all the family and offers an eclectic mix of a foodie festival and good old-fashioned Aussie tucker – usually with a twist.
BBQ Master Paul Cross @tastesofthetablelands
BBQ Master Paul Cross @tastesofthetablelands
Farmers from throughout the Atherton Tablelands will have stalls and it is an ideal opportunity for them to talk about the food they love to grow to those who love to eat it.
As well as gourmet food and the fresh produce, there will be a raft of other activities including cooking demonstrations and competitions, workshops, children’s activities, art and craft stalls and working artists.
Tastes has turned up the burners with the entertainment offered: a stellar line up of music includes the Billy Turner Trio, United Tablelands Pipe Band, Albina Nuciforo, Uptown Music Students Band, Legends of Perhaps, The Hot Shots Big Band and Nozzmossis.
Billy Turner Trio on stage @tastesofthetablelands
Headlining this year’s main Entertainment Stage is swing gypsy band, Django in the Jungle.
An Instameet is also being organised for the day and two car clubs will be at the festival this year – the Northern Motoring Club and the Jaguar Club of North Queensland. Both will have classic and new vehicles on display.
*Taste of the Tablelands is on October 14 at the Huo Wang Chinese Temple on Herberton Road, Atherton, from 8.30am to 4pm.
