Message from the Minister
It’s a pleasure to welcome you to the Taste Bundaberg Festival, an event that truly captures the character and charm of the Bundaberg Region.
Supported by the Queensland Government through Round 29 of Tourism and Events Queensland’s Destination Events Program, this event showcases the unique connection between our state’s vibrant communities and the diverse regions they call home.
Events like the Taste Bundaberg Festival bring people together, celebrate local culture and contribute significantly to the community’s pride and economy.
While you’re here, I encourage you to explore all that the Bundaberg Region has to offer—whether it’s its scenic beauty, local flavours, or the warm hospitality that makes this part of Queensland so special.
A big congratulations to the organisers and everyone who worked hard to bring this wonderful event to life. Thank you for being part of the thriving Queensland Destination Events Program.
The Hon. Andrew Powell MP, Minister for Environment and Tourism and the Minister for Science and Innovation
Mayor's Welcome
I’m delighted to welcome you to the 2025 Taste Bundaberg Festival, a celebration of the flavours, creativity and community spirit that make our region so special.
This year’s program features an exciting mix of new events from passionate local hosts, along with the return of popular favourites.
Whether you’re after a relaxed picnic, a family-friendly day out, or a craft brew with mates, there’s something for everyone.
The Taste Bundaberg Market returns to Alexandra Park on Saturday 6 September, and we’re thrilled to welcome back MasterChef Australia’s Harry Butterfield for expert cooking demonstrations.
The Mayor’s Ball on Saturday 13 September will be the gala event of the festival, raising funds for the Mayor’s Christmas Appeal. Expect a fantastic night of dining, dancing and dazzling entertainment.
I hope to see you at an event or two!
Mayor Helen Blackburn
The Mayor's Ball
Step into an unforgettable evening of celebration, community and outstanding culinary delights. An exquisite menu, curated to highlight local produce, will bring the heart of Bundaberg alive through flavour.
Dance the night away with a powerhouse line up of live entertainment featuring the high energy sounds of The Anthems Live Band, an electrifying performance from Abby Skye & The Batman and the soulful voice of Keely Ellen.
Be captivated by a stunning dance piece that will showcase Bundaberg’s very own talented performers, specially choregraphed for this unforgettable evening.
The Mayor’s Ball will feature a thrilling live auction and raffle with proceeds benefiting the Mayor’s Christmas Appeal. Show your support for local families and help spread festive cheer through the Bundaberg community.
Join us for a night of celebration, generosity, and community spirit. We can’t wait to welcome you to The Mayor’s Ball!
Date: Saturday 13 September
Time: 6 pm - late
Cost: $225
Location: Bundaberg Multiplex Sport and Convention Centre, 1 Civic Avenue, Bundaberg
Weekend One
Gather and Graze
Join us for the official launch of the Taste Bundaberg Festival!
Set in a scenic but secret location, this relaxed gathering will proudly celebrate our community and local flavours of the region.
With live music, a beautiful grazing table created by local business Grazin4670 and drinks served by The Waves, this is sure to be a fantastic evening of good company.
Savour the season and kick off the Taste Bundaberg Festival in style.
Date: Friday 5 September
Time: 5.30 - 7.30 pm
Cost: $40
Location: Mystery location, to be revealed!
Berries, Bubbles and Brushes
Join artist Kate Victoria and Melanice from Cha Cha Chocolate for a special pot painting workshop at the Kate Victoria Creative Studio.
Throughout the night you will also be invited to have the ultimate hands-on experience, dipping your very own fresh local strawberries in milk chocolate to enjoy while painting.
Your ticket will include a glass of bubbles on arrival, a sweet and savoury grazing box to enjoy while painting your own pot, a Cha Cha Chocolate goodie bag to take home as well as a strawberry plant from Bargara Berries.
Date: Friday 5 September
Time: 6 - 9 pm
Cost: $140
Location: Kate Victoria Studios, 196 Bourbong Street
Mystery Pop Up Picnic
Enjoy a beautifully styled and catered pop up date night picnic in a mystery location across the Bundaberg Region, hosted by The Picnic Basket.
Everything you need is featured, including a stunning charcuterie platter filled with local produce, take home bottle of sparkling and a fresh bunch of local flowers all set among the beautiful Bundaberg scenery.
Date: Friday 5 September
Time: 5.30 - 7.30 pm
Cost: $350
Location: Mystery location, Bundaberg Region
Bundy's Biggest Picnic
A unique community event where everyone gathers on one massive, custom-made picnic blanket.
Designed for connection and fun, this oversized shared space invites friends, families or individuals to settle in for an afternoon of locally prepared food, great vibes, and new conversations.
Attendees can pack their own picnic or pre-order a hamper, then relax with live music, lawn games, and friendly faces. Presented by Widebay Kids.
Date: Saturday 6 September
Time: 3 - 7 pm
Cost: $10 picnic blanket booking, $30 picnic box
Location: Christsen Park, Bargara
Artisan Local Craft Experience
A night of great craft beers, local food van and local singer.
Ask the Owner and Head Brewer Anthony all about craft brewing.
Experience true craftsmanship and share a drink at 384 North Brewing.
Date: Saturday 6 September
Time: 4 - 9 pm
Cost: $80
Location: 384 North Brewing, 2/13 Brickworks Cct, Svensson Heights
Mystery Pop Up Picnic
Enjoy a beautifully styled and catered pop up date night picnic in a mystery location across the Bundaberg Region, hosted by The Picnic Basket.
Everything you need is featured, including a stunning charcuterie platter filled with local produce, take home bottle of sparkling and a fresh bunch of local flowers all set among the beautiful Bundaberg scenery.
Date: Saturday 6 September
Time: 5.30 - 7.30 pm
Cost: $350
Location: Mystery location, Bundaberg Region
The Sunday Fix Wellness Party
The Sunday Fix is a community wellness initiative designed to support physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing in a fun, inclusive, and accessible way.
The event brings people together to move, breathe, connect, and reset — creating a powerful and positive way to start the week.
The event will include health and wellness vendors and be accompanied by music from a live DJ, building meaningful community relationships in a relaxed, uplifting environment.
Date: Sunday 7 September
Time: 8 am - 12 pm
Cost: $25 early bird, $35 full price, children under 12 free
Location: Riverfeast, 1A Scotland St, Bundaberg East
Tide and Taste
Experience Tide and Taste, an exclusive culinary event hosted on Grunske's exclusive riverside wharf.
Celebrity chef Harry Butterfield will prepare a seasonal seafood menu showcasing the best local catch.
Celebrate Dad this Father's Day with live music and local seafood with drinks package, on the banks of the Burnett River. This intimate gathering is limited to just 40 guests, creating a truly unique and personal dining experience you won’t find anywhere else.
Date: Sunday 7 September
Time: 12 - 3 pm
Cost: $125
Location: Grunske's by the River, 11E Petersen Street, Bundaberg
TASTE BUNDABERG MARKET
Enjoy a vibrant showcase of fresh produce grown across the region at the popular Taste Bundaberg Market.
Fill your basket with fresh produce while speaking to passionate producers, and enjoy the smells and flavours from a variety of food vendors while enjoying music by local musicians.
Be entertained by guest chef Harry Butterfield alongside talented local chefs on the Taste Bundaberg Market cooking stage.
Date: Saturday 6 September
Time: 7 am - 1 pm
Location: Alexandra Park West, Bundaberg
Cost: Free event
Weekday events
Full Moon Markets
Bargara Berries will hold an evening markets at the farm on the night of the Full Moon.
Browse locally made products at the market stalls and enjoy delicious food from the food vendors while a local artist provides entertainment.
Date: Monday 8 September
Time: 5.30 - 7.30 pm
Cost: Free entry
Location: Bargara Berries, 104 Hoods Road, Meadowvale
No booking required!
Chocolatier Experience
Join Macadamias Australia for an immersive farm to palette journey to celebrate the fusion of local agriculture and the artisan craft of chocolate.
Experience a guided macadamia tasting and see chocolatier Kevin tempering premium chocolate for the exclusive Ginger Macadamia Cluster - crafted live, using Bundaberg ginger.
At a beautifully styled long-table setting, guests will enjoy a curated selection of sweet and savoury creation, each highlighting Bundaberg local ingredients. Continue the sensory journey with handcrafted Chocolate Ginger Macadamias and signature Macadamia Cluster pack to take home.
Date: Wednesday 10 September
Time: 10 am - 12 pm
Cost: $75
Location: Macadamias Australia, 4625 Goodwood Road
Farmer's Table
The Farmer's Table is a slow-food celebration of Bundaberg's vibrant vegetable growers and the rich soil that sustains them.
Set surrounded by the orchard tress at Macadamias Australia, guests share in a seasonal feast where every dish honours the land and the hands that nurture it.
The menu is curated by in-house head chef Dion Taylor and designed in collaboration with the farming community.
Date: Thursday 11 September
Time: 5.45 - 9 pm
Cost: $89
Location: Macadamias Australia, 4625 Goodwood Road
Mystery Pop Up Picnic
Enjoy a beautifully styled and catered pop up date night picnic in a mystery location across the Bundaberg Region, hosted by The Picnic Basket.
Everything you need is featured, including a stunning charcuterie platter filled with local produce, take home bottle of sparkling and a fresh bunch of local flowers all set among the beautiful Bundaberg scenery.
Date: Friday 12 September
Time: 5.30 - 7.30 pm
Cost: $350
Location: Mystery location, Bundaberg Region
Berries, Bubbles and Brushes
Join artist Kate Victoria and Melanice from Cha Cha Chocolate for a special pot painting workshop at the Kate Victoria Creative Studio.
Throughout the night you will also be invited to have the ultimate hands-on experience, dipping your very own fresh local strawberries in milk chocolate to enjoy while painting.
Your ticket will include a glass of bubbles on arrival, a sweet and savoury grazing box to enjoy while painting your own pot, a Cha Cha Chocolate goodie bag to take home as well as a strawberry plant from Bargara Berries.
Date: Friday 12 September
Time: 6 - 9 pm
Cost: $140
Location: Kate Victoria Studios, 196 Bourbong Street
Symphony in the Strawberry Fields
Join Bargara Berries for an unforgettable evening under the stars at their Meadowvale farm.
Experience the beauty of live music by the Bundaberg Symphony Orchestra, set against the stunning backdrop of a working strawberry farm.
Relax at beautifully styled tables while indulging in a delicious platter of local delicacies. As the orchestra fills the air with enchanting melodies, sip your choice of wine or beer, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to this magical night.
Includes a gourmet platter for each guest. BYO wine and beer.
Date: Friday 12 September
Time: 5.30 - 8.30 pm
Cost: $89
Location: Bargara Berries, 104 Hoods Rd, Meadowvale
Guest Chef
Harry Butterfield
Harry Butterfield is your down-to-earth Aussie chef with a serious passion for seafood and the ocean. His culinary journey started at age 12, helping his parents in the kitchen and learning the ropes from his Nonna Yvonne and Pop Ivan. Growing up with fresh ingredients and a love for the ocean, Harry’s connection to food runs deep.
Harry finished MasterChef Australia as the 4th runner-up, where he stood out as the show's resident seafood guru. Throughout the competition, he impressed with his exceptional seafood skills, earning widespread recognition for his innovative dishes and his commitment to sustainable cooking practices.
Beyond his culinary achievements, Harry is passionate about creating digital content and engaging with his audience on socials. He enjoys sharing his famous recipes, cooking techniques and the ocean-to-plate journey with his followers, fostering a vibrant online community. His dedication to both the kitchen and digital storytelling reflects his enthusiasm for connecting with others and sharing his love for food.
Harry’s all about making you feel like you can get in the kitchen and create something amazing, no matter your skill level. So, whether you’re an experienced cook or a seafood newbie, Harry’s here to show you how fun and rewarding it can be!
Don't miss Harry at the 2025 Taste Bundaberg Festival!
Tasty Extras
Bargara Berries
at Meadowvale
During the Taste Bundaberg Festival we will have selections of fresh strawberries, handmade real fruit gelato made by Nonna's Gelateria and an assortment of fruit tarts made by Cruz the Bakehouse.
Date: Daily from Friday 5 September to Sunday 14 September
Time: 9 am - 4 pm
Location: 104 Hoods Road, Meadowvale
Gooburrum Grove
Farm gate is located at the front of the property and sells two core food from the farm - fresh limes and honey.
Date: Daily from Friday 5 September to Sunday 14 September
Time: 10 am - 2 pm
Location: 132 Booloongie Road, Gooburrum
Bundaberg Brewed Drinks
Visit the Bundaberg Brewed Drinks Barrel for a one-of-a-kind experience.
Sample every one of their brews through a fun and informative guided tastings and then select 6 of your favourites for a mix-it-yourself take home pack.
Date: Daily from Friday 5 September to Sunday 14 September
Time: 9 am to 3 pm
Cost: from $20
Location: Bundaberg Barrel, 147 Bargara Rd, Bundaberg East
Nana's Pantry
Locally crafted gelato and sorbet.
Nana’s handcraft all their gelatos and sorbets fresh onsite, using locally sourced ingredients that showcase the rich diversity of our region.
From native spices to seasonal fruits, every scoop is a celebration of flavour and community.
Date: Monday to Friday from 5 September to 14 September, closed Sundays
Time: Weekdays 8.30 am - 5.30 pm,
Saturdays 8.30 am - 4.30 pm
Location: Nana's Pantry, 38 Electra Street, Bundaberg
Agrotrend
Agrotrend Bundaberg is the region’s premier agricultural and lifestyle field day, showcasing and supporting the vital role of farming in our region.
For farmers and families alike, the two-day event is filled with something for everyone!
Date: Friday 12 September to Saturday 13 September
Time: 8.30 am - 4 pm
Location: Bundaberg Recreational Precinct
Weekend Two
Flowers and Bubbles
Join the team at One Little Farm for a delightful Saturday afternoon filled with creativity, laughter, and a touch of sparkle.
Whether you're a floral enthusiast or just looking for a fun and a relaxing Saturday afternoon activity, the hands-on Flower Vase and Bubbles Workshop is the perfect escape.
Learn the basics of floral arranging using fresh, seasonal blooms, most grown by Anthony and Lilly on their farm and take home your very own beautiful vase arrangement. Enjoy a complimentary glass of bubbly and grazing table in store.
Date: Saturday 13 September
Time: 2 - 3.30 pm
Cost: $155
Location: One Little Farm, 3/133 Bargara Road East Bundaberg
Mystery Pop Up Picnic
Enjoy a beautifully styled and catered pop up date night picnic in a mystery location across the Bundaberg Region, hosted by The Picnic Basket.
Everything you need is featured, including a stunning charcuterie platter filled with local produce, take home bottle of sparkling and a fresh bunch of local flowers all set among the beautiful Bundaberg scenery.
Date: Saturday 13 September
Time: 5.30 - 7.30 pm
Cost: $350
Location: Mystery location, Bundaberg Region
Bundy's Biggest Picnic
A unique community event where everyone gathers on one massive, custom-made picnic blanket.
Designed for connection and fun, this oversized shared space invites friends, families or individuals to settle in for an afternoon of locally prepared food, great vibes, and new conversations.
Attendees can pack their own picnic or pre-order a hamper, then relax with live music, lawn games, and friendly faces. Presented by Widebay Kids.
Date: Saturday 13 September
Time: 3 - 7 pm
Cost: $10 picnic blanket booking, $30 picnic box
Location: Christsen Park, Bargara
Sunset Serenade at the Rusty Gates
Enjoy an evening of live acoustic music by Tahli Thomas and curated local ingredient canapes by Bay Fusion Food Design.
Relaxed, open-air setting with panoramic views of the groves. Listen to live music as golden hour turns to twilight.
Drinks will be available for purchase, featuring a selection of wine, beer, spirits and soft drinks.
Date: Saturday 13 September
Time: 4.45 - 10 pm
Cost: $89
Location: Rusty Gate Grove Bar & Winery, 1 Cottonwood Close, Doolbi
Long Lunch
Water Street Kitchen invite you to join them for a delicious long lunch in the beautiful courtyard and restaurant to celebrate the region’s local producers.
You will be offered a six-course tasting menu with the option to pair with wine or something sweet from the cocktail list.
Dietary considerations can be met with prior notice. The special menu will be released on the day of the event.
Date: Sunday 14 September
Time: 11 am - 4 pm
Cost: $180
Location: Water Street Kitchen, 85 Water Street, Walkervale
Sunday Funday at the Farm
To celebrate the end of the Taste Bundaberg Festival, Bargara Berries are hosting Sunday Funday at the Farm, bringing together live local music, food vans, jumping castles and face painting.
Bring a chair or a blanket to relax on the grass while listening to the sounds of Mr Q - Qld.
Enjoy local foods while the kids jump and play. Fun for the whole family!
Date: Sunday 14 September
Time: 11 am - 3 pm
Cost: Free entry
Location: Bargara Berries, 104 Hoods Road, Meadowvale
No booking required!
Farm Flavours Picnic
Join Macadamias Australia for a delightful day under the macadamia trees at the Farm Flavours Picnic, a highlight of the Taste Bundaberg Festival.
Set amidst the picturesque orchards of Macadamias Australia, this family-friendly event offers a serene escape to relax and connect with nature.
This picnic showcases the region's finest locally grown produce, celebrating the rich agricultural heritage of Bundaberg. Savour the flavours, and appreciate the community's dedication to sustainable farming.
Date: Sunday 14 September
Time: 11 am - 3 pm
Cost: $69 (adult), $22.50 (child)
Location: Macadamias Australia, 4625 Goodwood Road, Alloway
Built with Shorthand