Travel Daily | Culinary Tourism links forged

With this in mind, Sunshine Coast Destination Ltd (SCDL) CEO, Steve Cooper and Marketing and Brand Director, Veronica Rainbird, met with key members of the food industry to discuss how the Sunshine Coast can move in the all-important niche area of culinary tourism.

Defined by the International Culinary Tourism Association as the pursuit of unique and memorable culinary experiences, Steve Cooper believes the Sunshine Coast is well positioned to be a market leader in this area.

“We have world class food events such as the Noosa International Food and Wine Festival; celebrated, innovative chefs who work and live in the region; a choice of unique and intimate cooking schools and restaurants ranging from five star to relaxed dining.

Martin Duncan of Freestyle Escape said developing a culinary tourism strategy was essential for the region and SCDL was well placed for linking producers with the media, and food bodies.

Mr Duncan said he was hopeful the discussion would result in everyone working together to gain a better understanding of how diverse our region is and create an understanding that there is a dynamic foodie experience showcasing the Sunshine Coast in the best possible light.

Mr Cooper said SCDL understands the value of culinary tourism to the region in terms of boosting our visitor numbers.

“We understand the value of culinary tourism to the region in terms of boosting our visitor numbers and this initiative will further enhance the experience for visitors to the region. SCDL is pleased to be working with industry to develop a short term strategy to tap into this niche market,” Mr Cooper said.

Image (l to r): Alexina Johnson (Season of the Sun), Petra Frieser (Regional Foodie Sunshine Coast), Julie Shelton (Real Food Festival & Slowfood Hinterland), Helen Brierty (Spirit House), Shane Stanley (Noosa & Kawana Farmers Market), Steve Cooper (SCDL), Martin Duncan (Qldfbi, Food Q & Freestyle Escape) and Veronica Rainbird (SCDL).