Tasting Australia, at the Source

Dedicated foodies have long known that Australia produces some of the best and cleanest food on the planet. Whether it's seafood from the pristine waters of Tasmania, tropical fruit from Queensland, truffles from Western Australia or grass-fed beef from New England this is a continent brimming with abundance and flavour.

Now Tawnya Bahr, a respected chef and food consultant, has created a new range of specialist food experiences which unlock Australia's culinary riches. Her Straight To The Source Tours offer the rare chance to taste, savour and explore Australia's exquisite produce – at the source.

“Straight to the Source opens the door so that you can learn about the provenance of our produce with a behind-the-scene experience,” Tawnya says.

“After nearly two decades in the industry, I have forged strong relationships with the producers and industry experts we visit. We know their stories and tailor these tours accordingly.”

Over the past 12 months Tawnya, who hails from Oregon but is now based in Sydney, has led small group tours to the Eyre Peninsula in South Australia and central New South Wales. Her behind-the-scenes tours of the Pyrmont Growers' Market and the Sydney Fish Market are also incredibly popular – as are her Junior Foodie Tours.

Tawnya's Straight To The Source Tours have been specifically designed for top chefs, restaurateurs and others in the hospitality industry but will also appeal to highly motivated home cooks who want to learn more about high quality, sustainable produce.

“Unlike other vocations where professional development is an expectation, chefs and front of house staff are expected to teach themselves. Noticing this gap we have tailored tours with the professional in mind while still offering a unique experience for the food loving public,” she says. “Spending time at the source provides an opportunity to learn what cannot be learnt by reading a cookbook or eating at another restaurant.”

Each itinerary is quite different, but a typical tour might include farm, vineyard or aquaculture visits, personalised tastings, hosted meals and meet-the-producer sessions. The tariff includes airfares from Sydney or Melbourne, ground transport and selected overnight accommodation.

To learn more about Straight To The Source Tours visit http://tawnyabahr.com. The website contains details of upcoming tours, costs and other background information.