'Epic celebration': festival showcases foodie talents as three signature events locked in

Three of the region’s most iconic Asian restaurants are coming together as part of a week of food-themed festivities on the Sunshine Coast.

Spicers Tamarind will host the Sunshine Coast Asian Food Festival at its Maleny restaurant, bringing together the much-loved Sum Yung Guys, Spirit House and Rice Boi.

It’s all part of the Curated Plate 2023, a week-long event that will showcase local products and foodie talents.

Running from July 28-August 6, this year’s Curated Plate program includes three ‘signature’ events: the Sunshine Coast Asian Food Festival; the free, family-friendly From Paddock to Curated Plate; and MooloolaBARS, a one-day beer and beverage event across Mooloolaba venues and bars.

Spicers Tamarind Retreat general manager Ryan Dillon said he was thrilled to be again hosting the Sunshine Coast Asian Food Festival as part of the Curated Plate.

“We’re excited to be showcasing the amazing produce that is on offer here on the Sunshine Coast and show why Asian food works so well with our sub-tropical climate,” he said.

MooloolaBARS event director Craig Williams said the Sunshine Coast was a great place for producers to be imagining their creations.

“For those of us lucky enough to make beer, gin or rum here, I think we all try and put a little of that magic into each glass,” he said.

“The MooloolaBARS festival will be one epic celebration of Sunshine Coast craft beer, gin, food and music, moving from one bar to the next along the stunning Mooloolaba waterfront.”

Meanwhile, from Paddock to Curated Plate will give foodies of all ages the opportunity to touch, experience and taste the best of our own backyard.

The free public event will be held at Cotton Tree, where foodies of all ages enjoy an immersive journey that will showcase the Sunshine Coast food scene.

More culinary events will be announced as local businesses put forward their own events and ideas.

Sunshine Coast Council Economy Portfolio Councillor Jason O’Pray said the annual food celebration would shine a spotlight on the wide range of quality food and beverages produced locally.

“We want locals and visitors to immerse themselves in the flavours of the region and connect with growers, producers and chefs through memorable experiences,” he said.

“Food tourism offers creative opportunities for the Sunshine Coast, so we are keen to connect with businesses in our food and agribusiness, tourism and hospitability industries.

“Capitalising on the success of last year’s industry-driven model to deliver collaborative events, we really hope to see more than 100 local businesses participate in this festival in some way – whether a producer, tourism operator or an event supplier.

“From young legends and refined chefs to the finest Queensland produce, we’re inviting Sunshine Coast-based restaurants, venues, wineries, breweries, tourism operators, musicians and food trucks who can offer a quality food event that features Sunshine Coast produce or products to be part of the festival.”

The Curated Plate is free for businesses to participate in, and those involved retain all revenue. It also offers collaboration opportunities with other businesses, including local producers, restaurants, cafes and tourism operators.  Applications close on February 28. Visit thecuratedplate.com.au.

The Curated Plate is an initiative of Sunshine Coast Council and supported by the Sunshine Coast Food and Agribusiness Network and Visit Sunshine Coast. It is supported by the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland and features on the It’s Live! in Queensland events calendar.