FINE DINING FINALIST

CHDC is honoured to have been named a finalist in the 2026 National Economic Development Awards for Excellence.

Our annual Farm to Fine Dining regional produce showcase is in the running to win the Partnerships and Collaboration category at a gala dinner hosted by Economic Development Australia next month in Hobart.

The recognition is a credit to the team at CHDC and the many producers and other stakeholders who’ve contributed to this advocacy event since its inception 11 years ago.

It also comes as CHDC, in partnership with Central Highlands Regional Council, prepares to host the 2026 Farm to Fine Dining in Brisbane later this month.

The evening incorporates local produce into a fine dining experience to connect Central Highlands farmers and agribusinesses with industry leaders, policymakers and other influential stakeholders.

See the story so far here.

See details about the awards here.

Previous accolades for CHDC include:

• In 2018, CHDC’s Central Highlands Accelerate Agribusiness initiative won the Collaboration trophy at the Queensland Awards for Excellence, hosted by Local Government Managers Australia. Later that year, the project earned a Highly Commended in the Partnerships and Collaboration category of Local Government Professionals Australia’s Federation Awards.

• CHDC was shortlisted as a finalist in the 2019 Prime Super Agricultural Innovation Awards.

• In 2024, CHDC’s Workforce Development and Accommodation Strategy received a Commendation in the Improving Planning Processes category at the Queensland Awards for Planning Excellence.