More than 60 producers and growers have already signed up to Regional Development Australia (RDA) Central West’s Farm to Organisation Producer Directory.
‘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, Charles Sturt University and Orange F.O.O.D Week, 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 Producer Directory helps to simplify the process for buyers seeking local produce, and producers seeking local customers.
“There are over 60 growers and producers from the Central West already listed on the directory and with the generous support of Orange F.O.O.D Week, it is continuing to grow,” said Mr Harma.
“We are calling on local producers and manufacturers to join the directory so we can showcase the quality and diverse range of produce from our region.”
The Farm to Organisation Producer Directory features a number of categories such as beverages, cheese and dairy, chocolate and sweets, dressings and dips, eggs, flour, fruit and vegetables, honey, meat and poultry, mushrooms and truffles, nuts, oils and olives and preserves and pastes.
“The Central West is renowned for its fine food and the directory will play a big part in ensuring more organisations, businesses, institutions and communities can access the wonderful produce that is grown right here in our own backyard,” added 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. The directory will help to create a stronger local supply chain and I encourage interested parties from 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.”
The Farm to Organisation Producer Directory will be launched as part of the Orange and District F.O.O.D Week program in 2021 with two events taking place at the Orange CWA Hall on April 14 and 15.
If you would like to be included in the Farm to Organisation producer directory email RDA Central West at grants@rdacentralwest.org.au or phone (02) 6369 1600.
Visit the ‘Farm to Organisation’ website at https://farmto.org.au/
