Camels and romance aren’t two things that normally go together, but a Sunshine Coast Camel Dairy believe in just that.
QCamel Dairy are inviting guests to their farm for Camels and Canapes this Valentine’s Day, Sunday 14 February, to share a romantic afternoon of champagne, stunning views, and their incredibly smart, loved-up camels.
QCamel has been a labour of love for the local, family-run business who first started operating in 2014.
“We started with 20 camels and selling our camel milk in one store. We are now the world’s only Certified Organic Camel Company, have 120 camels and produce award winning camel milk, cheese, skincare and even chocolates,“ proud owner, Lauren Brisbane said.
However, the Brisbane family haven’t always been farmers. Lauren and Peter were living in Central Queensland throughout the 90s and 00s with their three children, Yasmin, MacKinley and Harry.
Peter worked as a mining engineer, Lauren came from a fashion management background. Lauren said after watching many farmers go under in the drought, she began to look for an animal “that could do better” in the tough outback. Camels are not only drought tolerant, but have a huge unmanaged wild population in Australia.
In 2006, Lauren and Peter funded a two-year study into the development of the camel industry, and before long established the Australian Camel Industry Association (ACIA). They fell in love with camels and started plans for their dairy soon after.
Lauren and her staff have a true passion for their animals, naming each one and treating them with kindness and respect.
QCamel have been operating Camel Cuddle Tours for families and animal lovers for over three years, and are now welcoming new visitors to the dairy for this totally unique, sunset experience.
“Camels are truly one of the most romantic animals,“ Yasmin Brisbane, Lauren’s daughter said.
“There is something so soothing on the soul to have these huge, powerful creatures nuzzle into your neck and watch the sunset with you.”
The Valentine’s Day, Camels and Canapes tour will offer a unique experience with a chance to fall in love with your partner all over again.
The afternoon promises a spectacular panoramic view of the sunset against the Glasshouse Mountains. Guests will be provided with champagne and craft beer, plus a grazing board of canapes from Sunshine Coast food growers.
Camel Milk specialities are also on the menu. Hay bales, music and twinkle lights will set the mood, with camels roaming around to break the ice hoping to sneak a kiss and cuddle themselves.
There’s Anna, their biggest camel who eats pineapples whole. Margery and Theodora, the matriarchs of the herd. A kindergarten of new born calves. And who could forget Priscilla who adopted orphaned Sophie with her son Prince.
For the most romantic adventure on the Sunshine Coast, book your tickets at www.qcamel.com.au/events
and spoil someone this Valentine’s Day. Tickets are $100 per person and the event will take place from 3.30pm to 6pm.
