New Chocolate Festival Debuts in Morningside

A brand-new two-day chocolate festival arrives in Morningside this weekend, promising a huge range of decadent treats at The Hills of Rivermakers from the established team behind the Sweet As Dessert Festival.



Festival Details

The first-ever Brisbane Chocolate Festival is set to delight residents and visitors this Saturday, 26 April, and Sunday, 27 April. Gates will be open from 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. each day at the riverside precinct, The Hills of Rivermakers. It offers a dedicated occasion for enjoying chocolate even after the Easter season has passed.

A World of Chocolate and Desserts

Attendees can look forward to an extensive selection of chocolate-themed food and drinks. Vendors will offer chocolate fountains, brownies, soufflé waffles, cupcakes, doughnuts, gelato, ice cream, slices, and meringue.

Organisers have stated that options catering to lactose-free, gluten-free, nut-free, sugar-free, and vegan dietary needs will also be available. Beyond the sweets, pop-up bars will serve dessert cocktails, and market stalls will feature unique gifts and artisan products. Free tastings of chocolates and desserts are also planned.

Family Fun and Entertainment

The festival aims to provide fun for all ages with activities and entertainment. Live music will create a festive atmosphere throughout the weekend. Families can expect various children’s activities, including a chocolate treasure hunt where kids can search for hidden goodies. For those looking for a challenge, a chocolate-eating contest is also scheduled.



Entry Information and Organisers

Entry to the festival grounds requires a ticket, priced at $5 per person. However, entry is free for children under the age of 14. Once inside, visitors will pay for the food, drinks, and market items they wish to purchase.

The event is organised by the same team responsible for the Sweet As Brisbane Dessert Festival, which is known for attracting large crowds of between 5,000 and 10,000 people to its previous West End location before the COVID-19 pandemic. This indicates that significant interest is expected for this new chocolate celebration.

Published Date 22-April-2025

Morningside Welcomes The Hills of Rivermakers: A New Dining and Entertainment Precinct

Are you tired of the same old weekend routine? Morningside’s The Hills of Rivermakers brings a new world of exciting experiences to your doorstep.



The ambitious project, spearheaded by Potentia Solutions Leisure, the group behind popular venues like Soko Rooftop and Lina Rooftop, will breathe new life into the existing Rivermakers site on Colmslie Road. This 30-hectare space, already home to Revel Brewing Co and Mas & Miek Ceramic House, will now boast an array of exciting additions centred around the historic Commonwealth Acetate of Lime Factory.

A Feast for the Senses

Food lovers can rejoice with a wide variety of culinary offerings. The Hills will feature a pizzeria serving ten different kinds of pizza, a gelateria scooping over 20 flavours of homemade gelato, and a seafood counter offering fresh catches and classic fish and chips.  A cafe and bakery will provide delicious daily treats, while coffee aficionados can enjoy freshly roasted beans from the on-site roastery. The Roadhouse will offer a casual pub experience with classic meals and a lively atmosphere.

In 2025, The Providore will open its doors, offering a curated selection of meats, dairy products, and fresh produce. An urban winery will provide a sophisticated space to enjoy locally made wines, charcuterie boards, and cheese platters, with indoor and outdoor seating.

Fun for the Whole Family

The Hills of Rivermakers is designed to be a destination for the whole family. A petting zoo will operate every weekend and throughout the school holidays, allowing children to interact with alpacas, rabbits, chickens, and other friendly animals. An indoor play area will allow kids to burn off energy while parents can relax and enjoy the precinct’s many offerings. An open-air cinema will screen films for those seeking entertainment under the stars, creating a unique outdoor movie experience.

A Sustainable and Community-Focused Approach

Ross Ledingham, founder of Potentia Solutions Leisure, expressed his confidence in the project and its appeal to families, young adults, and professionals in the area. The Hills aims to provide a much-needed hub for the community, offering a diverse range of activities and experiences. The development also incorporates sustainable practices, with increased parking, solar panels, improved irrigation systems, and a 200-square-metre garden providing fresh produce for the precinct’s kitchens.



A Venue for Every Occasion

The Hills of Rivermakers will also cater to a variety of events. The Engineers Hut provides an intimate setting for weddings and private celebrations, while a large heritage hall can accommodate up to 400 guests for larger functions. The open-air cinema, lawn, picnic area, and petting zoo can also be booked for private events.

Published Date 23-December-2024