Chefs take centre stage at Port Douglas Carnivale

Port Douglas will serve up a feast of culinary delights for visitors from tomorrow when Port Douglas Carnivale 2014 commences with its signature event, the Longest Lunch, showcasing some of the region’s finest produce.

Minister for Tourism and Major Events Jann Stuckey, who was in Port Douglas to promote the festival, said 2014 marked the 20th anniversary of the iconic 10 day cultural festival and helped the Government grow tourism as promised at the election.

“This year’s Carnivale program has something to indulge the senses of locals and visitors alike with a variety of music, arts, sports, entertainment and gourmet food,” Ms Stuckey said.

“Following on from last week’s launch of ‘Restaurant Australia’ - Tourism Australia’s new global campaign - Carnivale 2014 will showcase the quality food and wine experiences the region has to offer. 

“Local chefs will dish up gastronomic delights for visitors at a selection of events over 10 days, including the Longest Lunch at the Sheraton Mirage, the Chandon lunch at Zinc Restaurant, and a seafood extravaganza at the Marina.

“Queensland boasts high-quality, fresh produce and the world’s best dining destinations, including multiple open-air restaurants located in Tropical North Queensland.

“Craig Squire, chef and owner of Ochre Restaurant in Cairns, is one of three Queensland Ambassadors at the ‘Restaurant Australia’ table.

“Port Douglas Carnivale 2014 is a great opportunity for visitors to the region to experience a taste of paradise.”

Ms Stuckey said Queensland’s tropical north came alive each year when more than 20,000 visitors descended on Port Douglas for Carnivale.

“Visitors can explore the region and enjoy a variety of cultural activities such as the Macrossan Street Parade, Japanese horseback archery and the Clipper Cup Regatta,” she said.

“The Queensland Government’s 20-year plan Destination Success recognises the need to support unique events such as the Port Douglas Carnivale which drive repeat visitation to Queensland’s regional destinations.

“We are proud to support Port Douglas Carnivale through Tourism and Events Queensland as part of our goal to double annual overnight visitor expenditure from $15 billion to $30 billion by 2020.

“We have a strong plan to boost tourism – an essential industry that the former Labor government ignored.”

Port Douglas Catering and Events head chef and co-owner Tommy Young said Port Douglas Carnivale provided a great opportunity for local chefs. 

“The local produce in Far North Queensland is quite varied and eclectic and chefs have to be creative with ingredients which are not exactly mainstream. This has given Port Douglas a very unique food style that you won't find anywhere else in Australia,” Mr Young said.

[ENDS] 15 May 2014

Media Contact: Minister’s Office – 3719 7252