THERE is a hidden gem in the hills of Pine Mountain just waiting for you to discover it.
Watercress Creek Olives and Limes has a history dating back to its days as a dairy farm in 1862.
The Pine Mountain property was established by Irish settlers John and Mary Mahon who sold their milk and produce throughout the Brisbane and Ipswich region.
In 1998 as fourth generation farmers in Pine Mountain, Bernard and Lorraine Mahon began farming olives.
The property now grows five different varieties of olives with more than 1,000 olive trees.
In 2006 Bernard diversified and added 800 Tahitian Lime trees. He now produces olive products, lime cordial, chutneys and jams and hosts an annual Watercress Creek Olive Festival which this year celebrated its 15th successful year.
Visitors to the farm can pick up olives, limes and gourmet products from the boutique farm gate shop or a ready-made picnic pack to enjoy in the scenic grounds.
Bernie also makes infused olive oils, extra virgin olive oil, olives, baked olives, tapenades and vinegars as well as jams and cordials on site. House specialities include a ‘bruschetta spread’, fig jams and whole figs preserved in a rich balsamic syrup.
The olive grove at Watercress Creek Farm is open for picnics, and offers packs to buy with fresh olives, tapenade, dukkha and olive oil and bread.
Adding on from the success of the annual Olive Festival he is now holding “Groovin’ In the Grove” afternoons with special guest artists.
Talented singer Brooke Austen will be performing at the upcoming Father’s Day event which will be held on Saturday, September 2 between 3pm-7pm.
