Culinary Delights

As the mighty Clarence winds from source to sea, it brings life to some of country's richest farmland and provides a nursery for an incredible variety of marine life. Taking full advantage of these natural riches, the traditional primary industries of fishing, dairy, beef, sugar and banana plantations of the Clarence are renowned for the quality and abundance of their produce.

The Clarence is one of Australia's biggest seafood producers and the southern gateway to the sugar industry. The historic sugar mill on Harwood Island has been crushing cane since 1874. In recent years, the entrepreneurial farmers of the Valley have explored ever more creative techniques and diverse crops and the region's farming staples are now complemented by a mouth-watering array of exotic and indigenous produce.

Throughout the Valley there are olive groves, tropical and stone fruit orchards, coffee plantations and fish farms. At Woombah, near Iluka, you'll find one of the world's southernmost coffee plantations. Many growers specialise in organic production and a good variety of certified organic fruits, vegetables, olives, beef, goat meat and silver perch is available. There are some intriguing and delicious bush tucker discoveries and a scrumptious variety of breads and pastries.

Local markets held throughout the Clarence Valley are a must for culinary adventurers. You can treat your tastebuds to an almost endless menu of lovingly prepared, international delicacies and stock up the pantry with fresh, local fruit, vegies and herbs.