Welcome to The Good Things Guide, my weekly collection of good things to eat, drink and discover across Australia and beyond. Each week I share new places to eat, travel ideas and experiences worth planning around across Australia.
In this week’s The Good Things Guide
This week I’ve been eating way too many pastries, and you’ll soon see why. It’s going to get any better as I’m off to Noosa for a preview of Noosa Food and Wine (yes, finally back to the name we all know and love). It’s coming in June.
What I Ate
A recent Scenic Rim drive delivered one of those reminders that country pub lunches still hold a special place in Queensland dining. Local produce, generous plates and a relaxed rural setting make this stop an easy addition to any weekend road trip through the region.
It’s the kind of place where lunch stretches comfortably into the afternoon, and friendly service makes visitors feel like regulars. If you’re exploring the Scenic Rim soon, this one deserves a spot on your itinerary.
Where I Went
I’ve been reliving this stay in my dreams. Waking above the rainforest at Binna Burra, with clouds drifting past your window and walking tracks right on your doorstep, feels wonderfully removed from everyday life. Best of all, this mountain escape is closer than you might think, making it perfect for a refreshing short break from Brisbane or the Gold Coast.
Read my full Binna Burra Sky Lodge guide here
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Worth the Drive
This newly opened Mount Glorious café delivers the perfect cool-climate escape when Brisbane’s heat calls for a quick mountain retreat. Surrounded by towering rainforest trees and crisp hinterland air, it feels worlds away from the city, yet the drive takes less than an hour from Brisbane’s suburbs.
The real drawcard, though, is what’s coming out of the kitchen. House-made pastries, good coffee and relaxed mountain vibes make it an easy excuse for a scenic drive, whether you’re heading up for breakfast, a lazy brunch or simply an excuse to enjoy winding roads and fresh air. Pair your visit with a short rainforest walk or lookout stop nearby, and you’ve got a refreshing half-day adventure sorted.
Cook This at Home
These pies are currently disappearing at record speed in my kitchen. A double batch produced twelve generous individual lamb and rosemary pies, yet leftovers proved optimistic once the family arrived.
They’re perfect for easy dinners, lunchboxes or weekend comfort cooking, and they freeze well if you manage to keep a few aside. Definitely one to keep in regular rotation.
Smart Travel Tip
Winter is one of the best times to explore Queensland’s Outback, when clear skies and mild days make long drives and outdoor adventures far more comfortable. Popular destinations fill quickly once travellers realise how good the conditions are.
Planning ahead now means better accommodation choices and more time to map out iconic stops, from heritage towns to dinosaur trails and classic outback pubs.
One Thing To Bookmark
Food festivals are perfect excuses to travel. Go for the great food and wine, then stay a little longer to explore the surrounding region while you’re there.
April’s calendar is already filling with events across Australia, making now a good time to start locking in weekends away built around regional flavours and local producers.
Looking for more travel inspiration?
• Latest restaurant reviews
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See you next week with more good things to eat, drink and discover in The Good Things Guide.
Kerry x