MAYORS across the south-east are shining a spotlight on some of the region's top attractions - including in the Redlands - in a bid to boost local businesses during the COVID-19 recovery period.
SEQ Food Trails - an online platform developed by the South East Queensland Council of Mayors - is a free tool to create, map and share food trails.
Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said south-east residents were spoilt for choice when it came to affordable local school holiday day trips.
"Now is the time to tick off that local bucket list item you wouldn't usually be able to do," he said.
"Gourmet foodie tours like SEQ Food Trails will be the big cash boost our cafes, restaurants and small businesses have been waiting for after the devastating months of closures.
"The message is clear - support our local businesses and explore your own backyard these school holidays because south-east Queensland is open for business."
The Council of Mayors has compiled a list of the top south-east school holiday road trips, including spots in the Scenic Rim, Redlands, the Sunshine Coast, Brisbane Bayside, Ipswich and the Lockyer Valley.
Redlands IndigiScapes Centre, Capalaba
Situated on 14.5 hectares of bushland, IndigiScapes features native botanical gardens, local bush trails, nature playground and on-site cafe serving morning tea with a bush tucker twist. Down the road, Sirromet offers a rustic Italian lunch served at its Tuscan Terrace followed by family game of Supa Golf at the on-site 9 hole course.
Manly Harbour Village, Manly
Weekends are abuzz at Manly Harbour Village with the Farmer's Markets on Saturday and Creative Markets on Sunday, or take a relaxing stroll along the winding Esplanade dotted with parks, shops, cafes and restaurants of all kinds.
Summer Land Camels, Harrisville
Visit Summer Land Camels for a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the workings of Australia's largest camel dairy where you'll learn more about their dairy operation, cheese, gelato and skincare production. You can also enjoy a relaxing camel ride through the farm.
Daisy Hill Conservation Park, Daisy Hill
Get up close and personal with an Aussie favourite at the Daisy Hill Conservation Park and adjoining Koala Centre. Bring a picnic and your bikes to spend the day exploring the world class walking and mountain biking trails. Keep your eyes peeled to say hi to the resident koalas and red-necked wallabies.
Awassi Cheesery, Grantham
Get back to nature in style with a visit to Awassi Cheesery, a boutique sheep farm and dairy nestled in the tranquil Grantham Hills of the Lockyer Valley. The kids will love getting to know the friendly Awassi lambs, while parents will love indulging in the delicious cheese selections on offer. Farm gate opens from Thursday to Sunday, luncheons by appointment.
The Retro Diner, Ipswich
Get ready for some old-fashioned fun with the Retro Diner's retro theme. Enjoy traditional milkshakes, hearty burgers and homemade cakes and slices using locally-sourced ingredients. It's right in the Top of Town, a historic precinct with cafes and restaurants. Queens Park is also nearby. Add in a stop to the local ice creamery at 88 Limestone Street.
Picnic Point, Toowoomba
Perched high on the crest of the Great Dividing Range overlooking Main Range and the Lockyer Valley, Picnic Point offers one of the best views in South East Queensland. The little ones will enjoy the extensive parklands, while the big kids can explore the many bush tracks. Lunch is sorted at the Picnic Point Café and Restaurant.
Sandstone Point Hotel, Sandstone Point
Kick back in the extensive gardens, take in the ocean views and bathe in the winter sun, while the kids are entertained by the on-site playground and petting zoo. Wrap up the day with a relaxing walk along nearby Woorim Beach, one of Brisbane's closest patrolled surf beaches.
Caloundra Street Fair, Caloundra
Featuring more than 120 unique stalls, the Caloundra Street Fair is packed with activities for kids, locally handcrafted products and art, tasty food and sweet treats, live entertainment and street theatre. Open every Sunday from 8am to 1pm.
More information can be found at seqfoodtrails.com.au.
