Local farmers who have received national recognition for their outstanding products have used the win to advocate for a reduction in bureaucratic hurdles making it hard for farmers to branch out into agritourism.
Tommerups Dairy Farm won the From the Dairy trophy at the 2026 Delicious Produce Awards for their creme fraiche after being the Queensland finalist every year since 2020.
“The Tommerups do dairy on an entirely different level. The quality of this produce is a testament to the meticulous care they pour into their craft every day,” said National Judge Andrew McConnell on the win.
In what is believed to be a first for multi-generational recognition at the awards, Kay and Dave Tommerup’s son Harry Tommerup – a first-time entrant – was a national finalist for his organically grown stoneground wholegrain Hellfire Wheat flour.
Kay reflected on the success, which is being claimed as a win for the Scenic Rim.
“There were only four categories and three of those finalists for Queensland are from the Scenic Rim – including Scenic Rim Pastured Poultry. We are involved with agritourism, connecting with visitors and showing them what we do, and that shows how important that part of our business is for the region,” she said.
“We need to make it easier for farmers to do that, not put hurdles in our way, and recognise farming is still our core business despite the fact we open to visitors.”
