FARM TO ORG. INFORMATION SESSIONS

JOIN RDA CENTRAL WEST FOR MORNING TEA IN BLAYNEY & MOLONG

Local producers, farmers and organisations are encouraged to attend two upcoming information sessions in Blayney and Molong to learn more about ‘Farm to Organisation’, an initiative of Regional Development Australia (RDA) Central West.

‘Farm to Organisation’ is a first of its kind approach to creating new pathways for producers and farmers to market directly to local businesses, organisations and institutions such as schools, restaurants and health facilities.

This venture, supported by Newcrest’s Cadia Valley Operations and Charles Sturt University, aims to deliver economic benefits to Central West producers and communities with the added health benefits of consuming fresh locally sourced food.

RDA Central West CEO, Sam Harma said the information sessions being held this month are an opportunity for local farmers, producers, buyers and businesses to find out how they can work together to make ‘Farm to Organisation’ a reality.

“The Central West is home to some of the best producers in the state and we hope that through ‘Farm to Org.’ we can create a stronger local supply chain,” said Mr Harma.

“We would all like to buy and consume more locally produced food to support our farmers, but we also know that reducing food miles is better for the environment and our health.

“There is an incredible range of quality fresh produce available right here on our doorstep so I encourage interested parties across the region to join us on this new local food movement as we inspire change in the way we procure, deliver and consume food in the Central West

“These initial information sessions in Blayney and Molong will help kick-start a dialogue around the opportunities ‘Farm to Org.’ presents so I urge local producers and business owners to come along and find out more.”

Farm to Org ambassador and Co-Owner of Hillside Harvest, Sophie Jones said that ‘Farm to Org’ will provide fantastic outcomes for everyone involved.

“We live in one of NSW’s most abundant food bowls, so it makes sense on all fronts that our farmers supply locally grown, fresh, nutritious produce to our region’s organisations as well as learning and aged care facilities,” said Mrs Jones.

“I know there’s some logistics to overcome but let’s make it happen! The Farm to Org. project seems like the Central West’s opportunity to create a win/win outcome for us all if you ask me.”

RDA Central West has partnered with Blayney Shire Council for the first information session on Tuesday, 15 September running from 10am to 11am at the council chambers located on Adelaide Street.

RDA Central West is also pleased to work with Cabonne Council to deliver the second information session at the Molong council office on Bank Street on Thursday, 17 September from 10am to 11am.

The information sessions are free however registrations are essential. Please register your interest using the following links:

Blayney: https://farmtoorgblayney.eventbrite.com.au

Molong: https://farmtoorgmolong.eventbrite.com.au

For more information contact RDA Central West by emailing grants@rdacentralwest.org.au or calling (02) 6369 1600. Visit the ‘Farm to Organisation’ website at https://farmto.org.au/