Our produce could become famous

Mario Giacosa says having local produce on Queensland Rail’s MasterClass journeys is a good promotion for the region.

Emma Channon

LOCAL produce could be on the plates of diners on Queensland Rail (QR) when it expands its MasterClass packages this year.

Apples, stone fruit, pears, lettuce and other fruit and vegetables from the Granite Belt could be on the MasterClass rail trips, served up by celebrity chefs such as Dominique Rizzo and Master Chef finalist Alana Rowes.

Local apple producer Mario Giacosa, from Wheels in Orchard Farm Gate, said this type of exposure was great.

"Because they go through such harsh conditions, our apples are the sweetest in the world," he said.

"We're unique here with that and we do have the best."

Granite Belt Wine and Tourism marketing director Anissa Williams said it was a coup for the region.

"It is extremely pleasing to see Queensland organisations such as Queensland Rail supporting Queensland, particularly the Granite Belt and the fabulous produce and wine we offer," she said.

"Autumn is a great time of year to source produce with our trees laden with fruit. But most importantly, we believe in eating produce in region and in season."

QR general manager Max Kruse said on MasterClass journeys, he always looked to use fresh, local produce.

"We can only use suppliers who can guarantee they are able to source produce from Queensland growers," he said.