Where in the world is Kin Kin?

By AG STAFF June 10, 2021
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Hinterland tranquility surrounded by green rolling hills, eateries, farm gates and more. This is Kin Kin.

You may not of heard of this sweet little town nestled into the Noosa hinterland, but Kin Kin packs a lot into its small size.

A picturesque 30-minute drive from Noosa Heads, it’s located in Queensland’s first UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Steeped in dairy history, today it’s home to an eclectic and growing group of artisans, artists, foodies and nature lovers.

Its rolling, verdant hills and valleys are home to farms that provide fresh seasonal produce to Noosa’s restaurants. It’s also home to Noosa’s first commercial coffee grower, which means it should come as no surprise that the town has a rich coffee culture and serves a mean brew.

Founded in 1902, Kin Kin township arose out of a need for services by timber cutters working in the catchment towards Boreen Point and north in “King King Country” in 1865. Giant cedars were removed in 1867 and a mill was established at Elandra Point in 1869.

Apart from boating up the river, access was difficult and delayed the settlement of Kin Kin village. A petition to Government in the late 1890s by prospective dairymen requesting the release of a rich belt of scrub on Kin Kin Creek was denied due to lack of access.

For history buffs, Kin Kin boasts more heritage-listed dwellings than anywhere else in the Noosa Shire, including the Country Life Hotel, Kin Kin State School, Kin Kin Memorial School of Arts Hall, Kin Kin Sawmill.

A LOT TO LOVE

The town is adored for its casual country charm, talented artists, health practitioners, foodies and hobby farmers. The Kin Kin General Store stocks a huge variety of local produce including Kin Kin honey and tea, jam, meat, fruit and vegetables. You can even buy locally made eco-friendly soap and dishwashing detergent.

INDIGENOUS LINKS

The word Kin Kin comes from the Indigenous word kauin kauin and refers to a species of black ant that is prevalent in the area. Keep your eyes out for the giant black ant statue in town!

PADDOCK TO PLATE

The Country Life Hotel is a typical Aussie country pub where you can enjoy some good old country hospitality. A paddock-to-plate experience is guaranteed at the Black Ant Gourmet Cafe where long-time local Jodie and her team will look after you.

Visit Noosa for more.