If you’re looking for a fun family day out around Brisbane, fruit picking delivers wholesome joy for all ages.
Not only is it great to be in the outdoors, picking fruit teaches children about where their food is coming from and who’s growing it while leaving you with yummy treats to take home.
Strawberry picking is typically the most popular but with the season now over, there’s a few hidden gems within driving distance of Brisbane delivering other options all year around.
The Longan Farm: On the northside of Brisbane, the Longan Farm gives visitors the chance to pick longans (similar to lychee), mangoes and dragon fruit. The season is usually available between February to April with a $2 entry fee (cash only).
Forest Dragon Fruit Farm: Forest Dragon Fruit Farm offers fresh cut dragon fruit with no entry fee in Forestdale. They grow 15 different varieties of dragon fruit, which means their fruiting season lasts from November until July, with most fruit available in the summer and autumn months. It’s also home to many animals, including chickens, ducks, pigs, sheep and alpacas.
Freeman’s Organic Farm: Here, visitors can explore the pick-your-own herb garden and take home plants like pelargonium citronella and holy basil. However, their commitment to organic farming has seen them expand their offerings to a diverse range of organic fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Freeman’s Organic Farm is a fourth generation farm and they offer guided farm tours filled with educational insights while children are invited to pick their own seasonal vegetables. There’s also mums and bubs sessions on Friday’s.
STRAWBERRY PICKING
Chambers Flat Strawberry Farm: Located in Chambers Flat, Chambers Flat Strawberry Farm grows strawberries from June to November annually. Once the crops are ripe and plentiful, generally around late July, the patches are opened up to public strawberry picking. They also have fresh strawberry ice-cream and a farm shop with local produce.
Rolin Farms: Another popular strawberry farm is Rolin Farms in Elimbah, near the Glasshouse Mountains. They’re generally open June-October and charge by the picking container. Beyond the berry fields, Rolin Farms boasts a charming store brimming with freshly picked strawberries, homemade jams, real fruit strawberry ice creams, and a range of hot and cold beverages.
TIPS
- Fruit picking depends on seasons, so it’s always best to check on Facebook pages and websites before hitting the road.
- Wear appropriate footwear and sun protection.
- Take a picnic rug to enjoy your goodies afterwards.
- Wash your fruit before eating it.
