CELEBRATING OUR VIBRANT REGION

It’s an exciting time at CHDC as we continue to celebrate the vibrancy, resilience, and innovation of our region through some incredible events in 2025.

First, a heartfelt thank you to our community for the overwhelming support for this year’s calendar of events, in particular the 2025 Central Highlands Business Excellence Awards. We are thrilled to share that this year we received more than 100 nominations — a testament to the outstanding calibre of businesses driving our region forward and to CHDC Business Facilitator Ashleigh Vann’s dedication in building and maintaining these integral business relationships. Our three distinguished and independent judges bring deep expertise and a sharp eye for excellence, ensuring that our finalists and winners will be recognised with the respect and prestige they deserve.

This outpouring of community support, combined with the backing of our valued partners, has enabled CHDC to plan a spectacular Gala Dinner on 6 September. We cannot wait to celebrate the passion, perseverance and ingenuity that define Central Highlands businesses. It promises to be a night of inspiration, pride, and connection — and one not to be missed!

We’re also looking ahead to another highly anticipated event — the 2025 Business Lunch featuring Bernard Salt AM. The renowned demographer and futurist will bring his trademark insight and energy as he speaks to the theme, A Region on the Rise. With new opportunities emerging and the Central Highlands positioned for significant growth, this lunch will provide invaluable perspectives for businesses wanting to be part of our region’s bright future. Over 80 tickets are gone already so jump here quickly to get yours if you’d like to hear from Bernard.

And, of course, 2025 marks a major milestone for one of CHDC’s signature events — the 10th Farm to Fine Dining. Over the past decade, this event in Brisbane has championed the extraordinary produce and passionate growers of the Central Highlands, bringing paddock-to-plate experiences to life in the most delicious way.

This year, we are proud to be showcasing an outstanding line-up of local producers:
• Marathon Wagyu – delivering world-class beef renowned for its quality and care.
• Costa Group – leading the way in premium produce.
• Manulife – advancing sustainable farming initiatives.
• Murphy Family Farming, Gersbach Family Farming, and Kiely Family Farming – three families at the heart of our region’s farming success story.
• New Dawn Honey – sweetening Central Highlands with its pure, local honey.
• Seed & Flour – crafting artisan products with heart.
• Broken Plains – proudly showcasing the best of our land and people.

Farm to Fine Dining is more than a culinary celebration; it’s a story of passion, innovation, and the spirit of our community that has flourished over ten incredible years. We look forward to commemorating this milestone and honouring our incredible producers.

I’m always proud to be part of a highly motivated team that drives initiatives which elevate our businesses, spotlight our producers, and much more. Here’s to a year of achievements, opportunities, and unforgettable moments!