The Taste Bundaberg Festival celebrates the region’s vibrant food producers and chefs with over 30 events across the Bundaberg food bowl.
This month we share the stories of our Local Taste Ambassadors, and what makes them passionate about growing, producing and cooking in the Bundaberg Region.
Rachael from Gooburrum Grove shares her story
How long have you been producing in the Bundaberg Region?
Gooburrum Grove was established in 2021.
The property we purchased had 500 Tahitian Lime trees.
We trimmed the trees, put in new water irrigation, and set about learning how to look after the trees in a way that suited our lifestyle, ethics, and the environment.
Soon after we dusted off the bee suits, got back in to action and purchased a hive.
We slowly increased the number of hives and started harvesting the delicious honey.
With an abundance of limes and honey, we started to sell farm to table boutique food products.
The first products were dried citrus wheels used for food and drink garnish.
The lime theme has continued with lime salt and pepper, lime curd, lime juice and a mulled wine kit for the red wine lovers.
The honey range started with raw, unfiltered honey and has expanded to creamed honey, infused honeys, honeycomb, and granola – the most popular product to date.
We now sell our products nationally, internationally and have wholesale and retail customers via our website and directly from the farm.
What do you love about living in the Bundaberg food bowl?
The fresh produce! There’s nothing quite like having access to an abundance of fresh, locally grown fruits, vegetables, and crops.
Whether is delicious figs, sweet strawberries, or crisp lettuce, the quality and variety of product in the Bundaberg food bowl are unmatched.
What would you like to tell visitors about the region’s vibrant fresh produce?
The Bundaberg region boasts a remarkable diversity of fresh produce, thanks to its fertile soils and favourable climate.
From fruits like strawberries and melons to classic favourites like tomatoes and capsicums, there’s something for every palate to enjoy.
Visitors have the opportunity to go beyond just tasting the produce – they can also experience the farm-to-fork journey firsthand.
From farm tours and pick-your-own experiences to farm gate stalls, food trails and restaurants, there are plenty of ways to immerse yourself in the region’s vibrant agricultural scene.
Where is your business located and what is the best part about it?
Gooburrum Grove is located 10 km from the city centre of Bundy.
The best part about it is the rural setting and quiet location and local community.
How are you involved in Taste Bundaberg Festival this year?
We will have a stall Farmer’s Markets again this year at the Taste Bundaberg Festival, and we are part of the Taste Trail with our farm stall selling citrus, honey and small batch items.
What’s your favourite thing to cook using local fresh produce?
So many favourites! Stuffed sweet potatoes, cold and warm salads, preservations and strawberry custard tarts.
Read more Local Taste Ambassador stories here, and check out the Taste Bundaberg Festival program.
