The next few months across the Bundaberg region will bring a plethora of foodie tours, festivals and events for those who love to experience new delights that will get your taste buds salivating. So what’s happening across our region? Well, this blog will showcase what’s on. Including local Indigenous Tours, local must-try cafes, farmer’s markets, festivals, and tourist hotspots. Not to mention the events we all look forward to every year, Taste Bundaberg, The Childers Festival, and Oceanfest.
So, cheers to booking accommodation at Kellys, while you and your family reap the rewards and food bounty from Bundaberg, Bargara, the Burnett and surrounding regions.
Does Bundaberg Have Indigenous Tours?
Yes. In Bundaberg, we are lucky to have two Indigenous Tours at our doorsteps. During both experiences, you will have a front seat per se, to a truly diverse cultural immersion. You will come away informed, humbled and grateful for the land in which we reside.
N.B. It is recommended that you only consume bush tucker when with a qualified expert. Also, the Indigenous community believe you should only take what you need so the land stays abundant for the next generations.
Where And How Can I Book An Indigenous Tour?
First, we have Bush Tucker Tours run by the Gidarjil mob that operate from the Port at Burnett Heads. Tours are available Monday to Wednesday. However, you can sample some indigenous cuisine Monday to Friday at their Gidji Cafe, situated at the same location. Or, if you are at the Mon Repos Turtle Centre, the Milbi Cafe can also introduce you to some delicious new menu options.
Tours range from half an hour, to two-hour sessions. So grab the family and friends, or if you are a school or workplace, you too are encouraged to book personalised Bush Tucker Tours. You’ll be amazed at what you can consume. For all enquiries and bookings, it is recommended to speak directly to Gaylene at the Yalga-binbi Institute on 4130 7751, where she is more than happy to personalise your Bush Tucker Tour.
Secondly, Taribelang Bunda Cultural Tours say “Yee’Gee”, which means welcome. Join them as they take you on a half-day cultural tour to experience native bush tucker. You will also learn a lot about their culture before colonisation, showing you specific sites of cultural significance, plus they share artefacts, indigenous history and more.
Both Indigenous Tours stand alone in what they can offer. So, at Kellys, we suggest you experience each tour so that you can see the distinction between our local Indigenous mobs.
Image Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland
What Foodie Tours Are Around Bundaberg?
Bundaberg and the Burnett region are a foodie’s goldmine. While there are so many places to visit, these are just a sample of our Kellys team’s recommendations.
- Alloway Farm Market. Only ten minutes from Bundaberg, this rustic market is full of surprises, from fruit and veg to local artisan condiments, treats, snacks, a deli and a cafe. You will leave here with a happy heart.
- Macadamias Australia. Not only are they huge on sustainability and a green future, but they offer a visitor experience where you can then dine in at their Orchard Table, quoted as, “Take your tastebuds on a unique journey, starting on the pathway through our lush macadamia orchard and ending with enchanting flavours from our chef’s macadamia inspired dishes”.
- Bundaberg Brewed Drinks. The Barrel, part of BBD, is a self-guided tour that allows you to taste all the famous drinks they distribute worldwide. Plus, you also get to mix your own take home pack with six (6) drinks. Yes, please! Look for the big barrel over East Bundaberg, or follow your nose to the mouth-watering aromas that waft through the air on production days. Enjoy the buzz.
- Bundaberg Rum. Synonymous for its excellent reputation and a range that entices many drinkers worldwide, Bundy Rum offers numerous tours and attractions. Mix your own rum. Take a guided tour through their museum and distillery, or take a self-guided tour. For avid rum drinkers, Bundy Rum will not disappoint.
While this is only a tease of what you can find, take note when driving on our roads and watch for the roadside fruit and veg stalls. You’ll find bargains and the freshest produce you can get.
What Food Festivals And Events Are On In Bundaberg?
Yearly we are spoiled for choice when it comes to food festivals that combine great entertainment. Crowds flock from other regions, and locals look forward in anticipation of getting their foodie fix. Here are our most prominent foodie events.
- Taste Bundaberg Festival. This is more than just food. You are welcome to join in experiences such as Masterclasses with well-known chefs. Last year Colin Fassnidge and the Chocolate Queen, Kirsten Tibbals, were the main attractions. There are also feasts, the ever packed and popular Farmer’s Markets, and much more. Spread across 4-13 of August, 2023; you are sure to find something to fill your cup.
- Oceanfest. Lock in August 26, 2023 to devour all the seafood you can imagine. This community event is hosted by the Rotary Club of Bundaberg Sunrise. While its focus is on eating seafood, this is a family-friendly event. There are kid’s rides, educational and environmental groups, performances and entertainment, and so much more. It’s a great day out for everyone!
- Childers Festival. While most of the attractions, food, fun, shopping and entertainment are held in Childers from 27th July 2023 to 30th July 2023, there is also Opera by the lake, plus cane fire and sugar mill tours. Here are some FAQS that can help you to plan your trip. Be prepared to have all of your senses brought to life.
What Boutique and Artisan Shops Should I Visit In Bundaberg?
Have you ever stepped into a store and thought, “Wow, where have you been all my life?” Well, this is how you may feel after you have been to a few of our gems here in Bundaberg.
- Nana’s Pantry. Is choice high on your list when it comes to shopping? Then Nana’s can cater, and some. Instore, you will find aisles of storage containers with lids, filled with food items, cooking ingredients, and much more. Take and pay for as much or as little as you like. Did I hear you ask for coffee, ice-cream and gelato? Nana’s have that, too. You simply won’t know what to buy. But one thing you will be sure of is that you will return and find something new each time you visit.
- Olsen’s Corner Foodworks. This isn’t your typical grocery store. Rather, Olsen’s are known for their speciality foods and international range. You will be extremely pleased as you find those hard to source items here in Bundy. So we encourage you to pop in, maybe grab a hot chook, but on your way to the deli, check out their artisan food lines. The range will impress you.
- One Little Farm. If you are after a boutique shop where you can purchase your produce and grab a gorgeous arrangement of flowers, but then you are in dire need of coffee and food, it’s all here. As you enter, friendly staff greet you. Then as you breathe deeply, admiring the aromas in the air, you’ll soon realise how great this little shop is. So do yourself a favour and visit One Little Farm.
- Cha Cha Chocolate. Reminiscent of the movie Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, you will love stepping into this shop full of, you guessed it, chocolate. Instore, you will also find other foodie treats. So dig deep into your pockets and try some artisan chocolates. And remember, every day with chocolate is a good day!
- Of The Earth Juice Bar – Bargara. While the name indicates you are in a juice bar, it is far more than that. Grab a freshly brewed organic coffee, or an acai bowl, there are snacks, and they also stock a beautiful and unique range of gifts, health supplements, books and more. A lot is available for you to choose from in such a tiny shop.
As you have just read, Bundaberg, the Burnett and our surrounding regions are jam packed (pun intended) with so much yumminess and new experiences for all ages. So when you stay at Kellys next, take a tour or two, and try something new. Then come back to our eco-resort and show us your goodies.
Before we go, if you want to stay updated with Kellys accommodation specials, then join our mailing list, where we send out monthly newsletters with exclusive deals and local attractions and events for the entire family. We look forward to seeing you soon at Kellys Beach Resort, Bargara.