A Taste of the Coast’s Soul with Creative Tours
John Caruso takes a creative tour beyond the postcard views to discover the makers whose passion pours into every local drop and dish.
Sunshine Coast locals know there’s more to this patch of paradise than beaches and boardwalks. For Jamie Marshall, the owner of Creative Tours, the real magic is found in the people, the stories, and the passion poured into every schooner, plate, and bottle across the region’s vibrant food and drink scene.
After taking the business reins earlier this year, Jamie has been on a mission to showcase the Coast’s best-kept secrets, not just as destinations, but as living, breathing experiences crafted by locals who love what they do.
What sets Jamie’s tours apart isn’t just the itinerary; it’s the connections.
“Like most things, it’s a combination of location, produce, owners. They’re passionate, and it comes across,” Jamie says, reflecting on his approach to curating each stop.
I asked Jamie to take us on a virtual tour of his favourite drinks destinations:
Noosa Hinterland Brewing Co: A Dream Brewed in the Hinterland.
Tucked away in the heritage-listed timber mill at Cooran, Noosa Hinterland Brewing Co isn’t your average pub. It’s the realisation of a dream for John and Cara Tynan. John swapped life in the mines for the art of brewing just before COVID hit. Jamie lights up when he talks about their story: “John starts his day with a beer at ten in the morning and simply spruiks about his journey.”
It’s a place where the building’s history seeps into every sip, and the owners’ passion is as palpable as the aroma of hops.
“They produce all their beer on site and they’re some really nice beers,” Jamie adds. But more than the drinks, it’s the sense of community and the genuine welcome that keeps people coming back.
Brouhaha Maleny Kitchen & Taproom: Where Local Flavour Meets Family Spirit.
In Maleny you’ll find Brouhaha; a venue that’s as much about people as it is about beers. Brouhaha’s story began with a dentist-turned-publican and now that story continues with Hayley and James Squire, a couple whose backgrounds on superyachts and at Hamilton Island have shaped their approach to hospitality.
“All their produce is locally sourced, with Hayley working front of house and together they’re a solid team,” Jamie explains.
The food is “out of this world,” but it’s the consistency and warmth that make Brouhaha a Creative Tours favourite.
“Just knowing that they’re good at what they do makes it easy for us to work with them,” Jamie says.
Sunshine & Sons: The Spirit of Innovation.
If you think you know gin, a visit to Sunshine & Sons will make you think again. Jamie admits he wasn’t a gin drinker, until he met Matt Hobson and Michael Conrad.
“I couldn’t believe gin could taste like that,” he said. “There are so many textures and flavours from the botanicals and the art of distilling.”
What sets Sunshine & Sons apart is their relentless curiosity. “Michael is like a mad scientist, he really knows his stuff, and it’s kind of no accident that their gins taste the way they do,” Jamie says. They’re generous with their knowledge, their tastings, and their time, understanding that every visitor is a potential ambassador for their craft.”
Add the fact that they are also the creators of Australia’s only certified organic rum, Nil Desperandum, and you’ve got a great day out. Plus the cocktail classes are great fun!
Flame Hill Vineyard: Bud-to-Bottle Queensland Wine.
Perched high in Montville with sweeping hinterland views, Flame Hill Vineyard is a standout stop on Creative Tours’ Sunshine Coast wine experiences.
“This boutique estate crafts premium wines – 100% hand-harvested from vines that date back over 80 years,” Jamie enthuses. “Guests can sample a range of varietals like Shiraz, Chardonnay, Fiano and Barbera at the cellar door, paired with gourmet bites from the on-site restaurant.”
With its stunning scenery and farm-to-table dining, Flame Hill offers a truly memorable taste of the Sunshine Coast – an essential stop on any Creative Tours itinerary.
Sunshine Brewery: The Mother Hen of Local Beer.
Hidden away and fiercely independent, Sunshine Brewery is run by Daryle and Craig Green, a couple whose warmth is as memorable as their brews.
“Daryle’s known locally as a sort of mother hen of the local brewery scene. She’s the one that puts in the orders for everybody and organises the boys,” Jamie laughs.
It’s the kind of place you’d only find if someone tipped you off, but once there, you’re treated like an old friend. The beers are excellent, and the hospitality leaves a lasting impression.
“They make sure that the guests we bring get great value for money and they explain the whole process, every detail,” Jamie says.
Discover an amazing local experience today.
