Welcome to Bundaberg – where the dirt’s rich, the flavours are real, and the locals know exactly where your food comes from (because they grew it). Set just four hours north of Brisbane and perched on the southernmost edge of the Great Barrier Reef, Bundaberg is one of Australia’s most fertile food bowls – producing a staggering 25% of the nation’s fresh fruit and vegetables. Here, the paddock-to-plate philosophy is second nature, farm gates swing open with a genuine welcome, and you’re invited to get a little hands-on with the region’s finest.

Ballin’ on a budget? Be sure to check out these free things to do (and a few cheap ways to pimp up your time).

Queensland’s tastiest food bowl is coming alive this August as Taste Bundaberg Festival returns with a 10-day program jam-packed with more than 30 events, showcasing our region’s vibrant producers and tantalising culinary experiences.

Bringing together the region’s finest culinary talents and rich agricultural tapestry, we’ve popped together some of our top picks of an unforgettable foodie getaway, so you can roll up your sleeves and come discover where iconic tipples and great taste grows.

You know those feel good, heart warming, stay a bit longer, play a bit harder kind of events?

Jeremy Bourke
The Australian

Several things strike me on my visit to Bundaberg Rum Distillery; we’ll get to the aroma in a minute.