Picnic in paradise: Brisbane’s top spots revealed

When it comes to dining al fresco, professional picnic planner Ashleigh Ernst knows the best spots in town. And she’s shared them to celebrate the easing of isolation rules. SEE THE FULL LIST.

MARRIAGE proposals, birthday soirees and family get-togethers – Ashleigh Ernst has engineered them all in the great outdoors in her work as a professional picnic planner.

As the owner of The Picnic Co., she styles and caters luxurious gourmet picnics at Brisbane beauty spots and is back in business with outdoor gatherings of up to 10 people.

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“Now the restrictions have eased we are probably more in demand than ever,” said Ms Ernst, 32, of Paddington, who can normally cater picnics for up to 60 people.

“After being in isolation for so long people are eager to get back outside and enjoy this beautiful weather, and why not do it in style? Having the freedom of being able to sit among nature, take in some fresh air and sunshine, it’s the best form of relaxation. I think many people are rediscovering the joy of the outdoors.

“Most of the time there isn’t even an occasion to be celebrated, people are just wanting to experience something unique rather than booking into a busy restaurant, and what better way than to have your very own private picnic by the water.”

The Picnic Co.’s Ashleigh Ernst at the base of Kangaroo Point cliffs.
Picture: Russell Shakespeare/AAP

Ms Ernst, 32, stages sunset, lunchtime or sunset picnics with picnic rugs, pillows, flowers and lanterns as well as a hamper filled with grazing goodies including cheese, charcuterie, fruit, baguettes and chocolate. Packages start from $280 for two people.

A former wedding co-ordinator, Ms Ernst founded the business in 2017 and said picnics for couples was her most-requested package, to celebrate a birthday, anniversary “or just to keep the romance alive”. One client even requested a cellist and violinist to serenade he and he is beloved over a romantic lunch by the Brisbane River.

And then there are the proposals.

“I’m a bit of a romantic at heart, I pretty much tear up every time I watch a proposal unfold. Watching the excitement on people’s faces when they realise that the picnic has been set up especially for them is definitely a very rewarding experience.”

Growing up in the country town of Cohuna, Victoria, and then Yeppoon in central Queensland, Ms Ernst has fond memories of eating fish and chips on a picnic rug on the beach, and sharing a few chips with the seagulls.

A weekend off is a rarity for the picnic planner but when it happens, and when border restrictions are lifted, she will head for Hastings Point, NSW, with a picnic basket, pillows and the Aerogard.

“I try to escape the city as much as I can and Hastings Point has such a relaxed vibe. It has a beautiful grassy lookout which is the perfect area to take a picnic rug, blanket, nibbles and a bottle of wine to catch the sunset.”

LET’S GO AL FRESCO!

Ashleigh Ernst’s pick of picnic spots

Jacaranda trees in bloom at New Farm Park, a top picnic spot.
Picture: Mark Cranitch

1. Kangaroo Point Cliffs Park, 29 River Tce, Kangaroo Point, Brisbane

“Definitely our number one sought out location. It’s located right on the Brisbane River and has the most amazing view of the city. There’s also a hidden pathway that not many people know about so we like to set up here for our proposals to provide a bit more privacy.”

2. Cedar Creek, Samford

“If you are wanting to get among nature, Cedar Creek is going to be right up your alley. Located in Samford, just 30 minutes from Brisbane CBD, the drive to this location is absolutely stunning. You can park your car at Andy Williams Park which has a range of picnic tables and gas barbecues which overlook the creek or take a picnic rug down to the natural rock pools to sit and listen to the running water and birds. It’s pretty amazing!”

3. Caloundra, Shelly Beach to Kings Beach

“There is a really beautiful walk along the coastline from Shelly Beach to Kings Beach. There are plenty of grassy areas to stop along the way to throw down a picnic rug and indulge in some local pastries and coffee overlooking the ocean.”

4. Orleigh Park, 68 Hill End Terrace, West End

“One of my personal favourites. It is also located right on the river however it tends to be a little quieter than other parks in Brisbane so it has a more intimate feel to it. There are always boats, kayakers, and jet skis going past so it is great to sit back and watch while the sun goes down.”

Find a sweet spot under the trees at Colmslie Beach Reserve.

5. New Farm Park, New Farm

“Always a popular choice among our clients. It’s quite a large area so it provides multiple choices for either a river view, city view, or our favourite is to set up among the rose beds when they are blooming.”

6. Colmslie Beach Reserve, Murarrie

“This location is magical. We have been lucky enough to set up a couple of lunchtime picnics at this park and it never disappoints. As you enter there are these huge Jacaranda trees that line the whole entry way, so beautiful.”

7. Captain Burke Park, Kangaroo Point

“Ideal for sunset picnics! Located right under the Story Bridge it is the perfect spot to sit back and watch the bridge lights come on. There is also a sandy area looking out on to the Brisbane River which has 180-degree views of the Story Bridge.”