Strawberry Picking a fruitful choice!
Are you looking to get the kids off the screens and into nature? Do they really know where our food comes from? If you’re looking for an experience that offers hands-on learning, connection with nature, an opportunity for family bonding, and an appreciation of food, strawberry picking is certain to be a fruitful 😉 choice!
This is a family-friendly activity that offers the ultimate combination of nature, fun and belly-pleasing rewards! Queensland is spoilt for choice when it comes to strawberry farms. In this article, we’ll explore why it’s a great activity for families, how it works and some of the best farms to visit.
A visit to a farm is a great way to engage our children in an activity that fosters connection with the natural world. Learn about farming, agriculture and the importance of sustainable practices in a playful way. See the joy on their face as they uncover and pluck ripe and juicy strawberries straight from the plants, a new appreciation and delight for all!
How does it work?
Typically the best time for strawberry picking is between June and October in Queensland, and the warm afternoon is best as it is when the fruits are at their most flavoursome.
Each farm has its own process. Often they’ll charge a set amount for a punnet before you start to pick. Others will then charge a set fee for picking and charge for additional weight above the set punnet weight.
Choose your strawberry carefully as the ripening process halts as soon as they are picked. Your strawberry is ready when it is plump, firm and red.
Where are the best locations?
Here in Queensland, several strawberry farms offer families the chance to immerse yourselves in the world of strawberry picking. Here are our top five favourite strawberry farms.
Luvaberry
Make your way an hour north of Brisbane to pick your own strawberries at Luvaberry from July to October. Luvaberry is ideal for families with little ones as they offer ‘Peckish Picking’ knowing it’s hard to resist tasting a few strawberries along the way! That’s why you’ll find the price includes the opportunity to eat as many strawberries straight from the field as you like! Luvaberry has a unique approach that places value on farming culture, community, and sustainability practices. This commitment shines through in every aspect of their offering including the promotion of community through their Farmgate Café and calendar of events, their sustainability initiatives like the Mini Farm which grows food to support local Moreton Bay Charities, and their efforts to reduce waste by saving damaged berries and offering them as frozen or freeze-dried options.
Part of the Gympie Regions, Cooloola Berries is found a 40-minute drive north of Noosa or 25 minutes from Gympie in Woolvi. Their popular farm and café are open 5 days from May until October, surrounded by beautiful countryside, lavender fields and wildlife including kangaroos, echidnas, and an array of birdlife. On Sunday afternoons they host Paella in the Paddock, a great way to relax and enjoy the surroundings with delicious food, wine and music. Seasons can change each year so check their Facebook page to find out the latest picking information.
McMartin’s Strawberry Farm
Nestled amidst the breathtaking scenery of Mapleton National Park and the majestic Mount Coonowrin to the south, McMartin’s Strawberry Farm in Bli Bli offers an idyllic setting for Sunshine Coast families and visitors seeking a dose of winter sunshine and a genuine farm experience. With a strong commitment to organic farming practices, McMartin’s farm provides a sense of assurance as you engage in picking and savouring delicious, pesticide-free strawberries. In addition to the strawberry fields, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the farm’s other fruit crops, including succulent lychees, flavorful custard apples, and delectable figs.
Nestled in the scenic countryside and a family-friendly, 40-minute drive from Brisbane City, this delightful farm offers an immersive experience for parents and children to enjoy the pleasures of strawberry picking together. This 5th generation family-owned farm normally opens mid-August when the fields are plentiful. Pick your own is a punnet per person and you must purchase upon entry. The farm shop is open for fresh strawberries and strawberry ice cream in the lead-up to Follow their Facebook page for the latest activities.
From the Sunshine Coast to the Lockyer Valley and the Gold Coast hinterland, the farms allow us to embrace the beauty of nature, learn about sustainable agriculture, or simply put be in the real world with real food – what a treat!
Without a doubt strawberry picking is a unique and memorable family experience that promotes healthy eating and quality time together. We think that the best part is taking your freshly picked strawberries home to bake muffins, serve with pancakes, dip in chocolate, or simply enjoy fresh. So many options for togetherness with children of all ages!
