Jam-packed with ginger

Maureen Simon's Costus Hybrid Royal Burgundy will be unveiled at the 20th Ginger Flower and Food Festival later this month.

The annual Ginger Factory Flower and Food Festival is back for another year ready to delight foodies and flower enthusiasts alike.
The weekend of all things tasty and beautiful will celebrate its 20th anniversary with a jam-packed calendar for the whole family to enjoy.
To mark this milestone occasion, food lovers will be treated to three exciting days of live cooking demonstrations from locally renowned kitchen masters and celebrity chefs.
The exciting line-up of cooking demonstrations, to be hosted in the Blue Ginger Room, will include popular food ambassador Matt Golinski who will work with Mary Valley producers to showcase the amazing produce of this region.
Matt will be joined by local celebrated chefs as well as former My Kitchen Rules contestant Jonathon Brown from Cotton Tree Meats who will introduce dry aged beef and a delicious pork dish with a ginger twist.
Event organiser Carolyn said that this year’s event will be a sensational celebration of local produce and talent.
“Whether you are a meat lover, have a sweet tooth, or are looking for new ways to cook with the region’s finest produce, kitchen masters from across the Sunshine Coast will show you how,” she said.
Lovers of flowers have not been forgotten with an exciting new collection of Costus ginger to be unveiled at the event.
The hybrid range of ginger is set to be unveiled at the festival by local gardening expert Maureen Simons and horticulturist Greg Jones.
The much-anticipated collection has 14 hybrids in a wide range of colours, from compact ground cover to full size.
Ms Simons said the new hybrids are very exciting as they not only look appealing but are also edible and perfect for salads and stir-fries.
“Costus ginger has a spiral structure, flowers beautifully, tastes great, and is very architectural in style which complements home gardens wonderfully,” she said.
This new collection, along with other gingers making their first time appearance, and long-time favourite heliconias, will be available to purchase at the festival.
Children will also enjoy this event just as much as their parents with a range of activities including an interactive workshop for budding young gardeners, a fun foodie session, and even birthday cake.
To check out all the festival has to offer make sure you head to The Ginger Factory, 50 Pioneer Road, Yandina, between Friday 22 January and Sunday 24 January.
Admission is free and ample parking is available.