Government’s $99k investment into ‘food tourism’

A regional council has received a mammoth boost of funding to help bolster its reputation as the state’s “innovative food destination”.

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

The food tourism and hospitality sectors took a major hit in 2020 but with assistance from the State Government, the industry is on its way back to its former glory.

Scenic Rim Regional Council has received $99,000 in grant funding to restore the region’s reputation as an “innovative food destination”.

The funding will go towards funding for stage two of the North Stores development on Tamborine Mountain, which will include a cooking school, event space, cafe and providore shop.

Grant recipient Brenda Fawdon said she and her business partner, Sonja Drexler, were looking forward to building back the region’s reputation as a food tourism powerhouse.

“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.”

Scenic Rim Mayor Greg Christensen said it was exciting news for the whole Scenic Rim, and was a testament to the way they have recovered from the challenges that were thrown at them in 2020.

“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.”

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