CENTRAL HIGHLANDS STORY SERVED IN CITY

A fine dining experience infused with the flavours of the Central Highlands has helped strengthen the region’s profile in Queensland’s capital.

The Central Highlands Development Corporation (CHDC) presented its eleventh annual Farm to Fine Dining event in Brisbane last week to an audience of more than 70 high-level industry, business and government representatives.

The regional produce showcase is a collaboration with local agribusinesses, Blackbird restaurant and supporting partners.

CHDC CEO Peter Dowling says Farm to Fine Dining is ultimately about bringing people together, building relationships for the benefit of the region long-term.

“This event helps keep the Central Highlands front-of-mind with the people who influence investment, funding and policy decisions,” Mr Dowling says.

“There’s no substitute for sitting around a table, sharing our produce and having face-to-face conversations about the great work happening across our region and where we’re headed next.

“Eleven years on, this event has become an important fixture on the calendar and we’re proud that so many people make time to attend.”

Local produce on the menu included Price Cattle Company organic Wagyu beef, sorghum and mung beans from JnJ Ross, Costa Group mandarins, A&L Romeo’s table grapes, and New Dawn Honey.

The dishes also featured saffron, fennel, and sesame and kalonji seeds, all emerging crops in the Central Highlands, and sunflower seeds, a nod to Emerald’s past as a sunflower producer.

“We’re presenting the traditional produce of our ag sector, while also shining a light on innovators like Red Gold Australia Saffron, Weemah Farming, and CQUniversity and its research partners,” Mr Dowling says.

“It tells a story of a region that’s proud of its agricultural heritage while also being focused on diversification and growth.”

Sean Dillon, Member for Gregory and Assistant Minister for Primary Industry Development, Water and Western Queensland, attended on behalf of the Premier, Minister for Primary Industries and Minister for Local Government.

Central Highlands Regional Council Mayor Janice Moriarty and Deputy Mayor Karen Newman were among the evening’s speakers.

Farm to Fine Dining is a finalist in the Partnerships and Collaboration category of the National Economic Development Awards, with winners announced on 14 October.