The Sunshine Coast came alive this winter with The Curated Plate, Queensland’s signature food and drink festival, which ran from 25 July to 3 August 2025. Over ten days, the festival celebrated the region’s growers, producers, chefs and culinary innovators, with events scattered across the coast and hinterland. From beachside dining to farm-to-table experiences, it was a showcase of the Sunshine Coast’s unique food culture and landscapes.
This year marked a new chapter for the festival with acclaimed chef and TV personality Peter Kuruvita stepping in as its first culinary director. Kuruvita’s influence could be felt throughout the program, which brought together over 50 events – from intimate chef’s tables and masterclasses to large-scale community gatherings. His vision was to create a festival that not only celebrated fine dining but also connected visitors with the region’s farmers, fishers, distillers, and food artisans.
“We’ve seen such a strong appetite – not just for the food, but for the full experience,” Mr Kuruvita said. “This year’s lineup brought together incredible local producers and passionate chefs, and the response from locals and visitors alike has been phenomenal.”
What set The Curated Plate apart was its focus on place. Events weren’t confined to one central location; instead, they were spread across the Sunshine Coast Biosphere, encouraging visitors to explore everything from lush hinterland farms to bustling seaside towns. This diversity gave the festival a sense of adventure, with each event offering a different slice of the region’s story.
One of the standout moments was the Asian Food Festival at Spicers Tamarind Retreat in Maleny, where some of the Sunshine Coast’s best Asian-inspired restaurants collaborated on a vibrant, multi-course feast. Another highlight was Land to Sea – A Culinary Cruise of Native Flavours, which took diners on a journey through the region’s waterways while showcasing local seafood and native ingredients. More relaxed experiences, such as Picnic on the Green and Bees & Brunch, provided family-friendly options that blended food with education and community connection.
Beyond the plates and glasses, the festival delivered a powerful message about sustainability and local connection. By championing regional producers and showcasing native ingredients, it highlighted the vital role food plays in the Sunshine Coast’s identity and economy.
With its expanded program and the creative leadership of Peter Kuruvita, the 2025 Curated Plate cemented itself as a must-visit event for food enthusiasts across Australia. It wasn’t just about eating and drinking – it was about storytelling, celebrating community, and experiencing the Sunshine Coast in its most delicious form.
Planning for 2026 is already underway, with new collaborations and fresh experiences on the menu for July 24 – August 2, 2026. Subscribe to stay up to date with festival news or follow on socials @thecuratedplate.
This Curated Plate Food and Drink Festival is an initiative of the Sunshine Coast Council, supported by the Queensland Government, through Tourism & Events Queensland, the Food and Agribusiness Network and Visit Sunshine Coast.
