Horizon Festival Opening Night
Community celebration
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Burnt Earth: Bonyi Bounty
Immersive dining experience
An unforgettable afternoon of sensory dining and cultural connection unfolds at Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve and Tranquil Park, Maleny — with four local First Nations chefs collaborating to explore a bounty of native ingredients and cooking rituals, set amongst rainforest and rolling hinterland landscapes with views across the Glasshouse Mountains region.
Audiences can choose to begin with a guided walk through the rainforest and the Medicinal Plants Exhibition at Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve, before travelling a short distance to gather at Tranquil Park, Maleny for canapés and drinks. First Nations voices lead the experience, sharing stories of Country and culture through performance and conversation.
Chefs Aunty Dale Chapman (My Dilly Bag), Chris Jordan (Three Little Birds), Tanika Orr (Nooks and Cooks) and Kara Pulou create a slow dining ritual inspired by native ingredients. Audiences will witness fire‑based cooking before being seated for spectacular entrées and mains at Tranquil Park, paired with storytelling and culinary secrets from the chefs.
The finale? Sumptuous sweets served as the afternoon unfolds into evening. A one‑off event celebrating connection to Country, creativity and cultural continuity.
Join the guided tour
Meet in the foyer of Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve Information Centre at 1.45pm for a 30‑minute gentle guided walk through the rainforest. Following the walk, audiences will travel independently to Tranquil Park, Maleny for the dining experience.
Attend the Medicinal Plants opening
Ticket holders are warmly invited to attend the opening of Medicinal Plants at Mary Cairncross Theatrette from 1.00pm.
Chefs:
- Aunty Dale Chapman
- Chris Jordan
- Tanika Orr
- Kara Pulou
Musical performances:
- Will Murphy
- Kids in Action
This event offers an indoor and outdoor experience. All food and beverages are included in the ticket price.
Please note, that only gluten free, vegetarian and vegan options will be available as part of this dining experience.
A heads up — photography and filming may take place during Horizon events for promotional use. If you’d prefer not to be in any of the shots, please chat to one of our Horizon staff on the day.
- Accessibility for low vision
- Accessibility for hard of hearing
- Wheelchair accessible
- Accessible toilet
We strive to ensure our programs and events are inclusive and accessible to everyone. If you have any accessibility requirements, including Auslan Interpreters, mobility assistance, hearing support, or other accommodations, please contact our team at [email protected].
Food allergies and intolerances: Please make note when completing your ticket purchase of any food allergies or intolerances so we can ensure your safety and comfort at the event.
Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve is located at 148 Mountain View Road, Maleny, Queensland. Free parking is available on site. Directions: Google Maps.
Horizon Festival acknowledgements
Burnt Earth: Bonyi Bounty is presented by Horizon Festival 2026 in partnership with Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve, and supported by My Dillybag.
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