5 reasons to marry in the Moreton Bay Hinterland

Celebrate an idyllic country wedding in the rolling hills of this secret hinterland gem, only 45km from Brisbane CBD! Here are our 5 reasons why you should marry in the Moreton Bay Hinterland … (plus the local help you’ll need to pull it all off).

1. It’s magical up here

Have you met the Moreton Bay hinterland yet? One of Queensland’s hidden gems, this scenic region can be found due west from Brisbane’s bayside, stretching from Mount Glorious and Samford in the south through to Woodford in the north. A lush landscape of farmland vistas, rolling green hills and majestic mountains, the air is fresh and clean and there’s a distinct lack of crowds. Just the spot for a relaxed country wedding, garden soirée, or luxury winery do. Key locations to know include the rural hub of Samford, majestic Mount Mee, and the charming country village of Dayboro – and wherever you choose, a warm country welcome awaits.

2. The venues are something special

Unique event spaces are a specialty in the Moreton Bay hinterland. Case in point: the old Dayboro Butter Factory, a local landmark turned intimate, character-filled event space (Entangled Events) complete with greenery, hand-crafted décor, and a bamboo courtyard. See also Birches Restaurant, which is housed in a gorgeous Queenslander with views to Moreton Bay and beyond (their fireplace is spectacular!). Looking for the romance of a winery wedding? Head directly to the 150 picture-perfect acres of Ocean View Estates, which offers elegant catering and plenty of incredible locations, including a gazebo on the lake, an ‘enchanted forest’, and a ceremony site overlooking the Chardonnay vineyard. Oh, and one more for the shortlist: an entire farm! Ocean View’s Brockhurst Farm invites you to create a dream ‘I do’ with a purpose-built barn for your DIY reception, cosy cabins, and a ‘dogs welcome’ policy. We do love a barn wedding…

3. Micro weddings feel just right

Although there’s plenty of room for grand celebrations, the hinterland lends itself beautifully to intimate events. Plan a romantic micro wedding or private elopement and splash out on a few flourishes with all that money you didn’t spend on invites. We’re thinking helicopter arrival (Oceanview Helicopters are here for you) and an extended mini-moon in a luxury cottage. Our tip? Consider a winter wedding. The hinterland takes on a magical quality over the cooler months (think misty mornings, warm days and cosy fireplaces), and you may be able to score a special off-peak package.

4. There’s room for a pony (and your nearest and dearest)

Planning a sleepover? You’ll be glad you did, as the hinterland is dotted with historic cottages, eco-cabins and luxury vineyard accommodation. Plenty of room for your loved ones to enjoy some precious quality time in this beautiful locale. For a snapshot of what’s on offer, look to Mount Mee, which rises 500 metres into the clouds as part of the majestic D’Aguilar Range. Here you can soak up the vineyard views from your deck spa or snuggle by the fire with a glass of local red at Ocean View Estates. Or, watch the distant city lights twinkle from Cabins @ The View, which offers private mountaintop cabins with log fires and jacuzzis, plus a four-bedroom/two bathroom house perfect for wedding groups.

5. You’ll have a stellar support team

Want to explore further? We’ve found an excellent online resource created by Moreton Bay Hinterland Weddings (MBHW), where you can connect with local wedding creatives, venues and services. Choose one key element of your day or the whole kit and kaboodle. Need a cake? Check Dayboro-based Confetti Cake Co for all the sweet inspiration you’ll need. How about music? Turn to Kate B Music for everything entertainment, including MC and DJ services and the uplifting sounds of a singing harpist! Elevate your floral power with a bit of help from gifted florist, Seasonal Blooms, and get day-ready with local beauty experts, Beauty By Corinne, and Facial Beauty. And if you’re seeking the perfect celebrant for your all-important vows, the Moreton Bay hinterland is home to a wonderful community of celebrants to guide you through the joy (and legalities) of your union. Last but not least, ensure all your special moments are captured with beautiful photography by Liz Wilson. The friendly group of MBHW professionals often work side by side and love nothing more than sharing this naturally beautiful region with their couples.

For local tips, contacts and expert advice, visit moretonbayhinterlandweddings.com.au