Hinterland producers take centre stage on food trail

Some of the Sunshine Coast hinterland's best-known food and beverage producers will be showcased when The Paired Plate launches as part of this year's Curated Plate festival.

Running from July 24 to August 2, the self-guided food and drink trail will feature signature food and beverage pairings at participating venues across the Sunshine Coast, highlighting the region's local producers and encouraging diners to explore at their own pace.

Among the businesses set to benefit are hinterland favourites including Maleny Dairy, Woombye Cheese and Sunshine & Sons, whose products feature in dishes and drinks served along the trail.

Unlike many food festivals, The Paired Plate requires no bookings or tickets. Visitors simply choose a participating venue, order its featured pairing and vote for their favourite combination by scanning a QR code, with every vote entering them into a draw to win a food and dining prize package.

Event organiser Josh Donohoe said the concept was designed to put the spotlight on the Sunshine Coast's farmers, producers, brewers and distillers while making the festival more accessible.

"Behind every plate on this trail is a local farmer, producer, brewer or distiller. The Paired Plate is a chance to taste your way around the region, one venue at a time, and see just how much talent we have right here on the Sunshine Coast," he said.

Mr Donohoe said every dollar spent on the trail flowed directly to participating venues and the local producers supplying them.

Examples of pairings include a Gympie Angus beef burger topped with Maleny Dairy cheddar, alongside seafood, craft beer and locally grown produce sourced from across the region.

The Paired Plate is presented by Queensland's Sunshine Pantry as part of The Curated Plate festival. Dishes will be available during normal trading hours from July 24 to August 2, with most pairings priced at around $30 or less.

For hinterland producers, the trail provides another opportunity to place locally made food and drink in front of thousands of visitors exploring the Sunshine Coast during one of the region's premier culinary festivals.

• For the full list of menu items here https://thecuratedplate.com.au/event/34856345-a/queenslands-sunshine-pantry-presents-the-paired-plate

Sunshine & Sons & Woombye Cheese Company pairing. 

Alsahwa Estate are using Sunshine & Sons as their drink pairing. The self-guided food and drink trail will feature signature food and beverage pairings at participating venues.