With the issues currently faced by supermarkets in being able to keep the shelves stocked due to high rates of COVID-related absenteeism, Macedon Ranges locals are being encouraged to source their fresh produce locally and discover the many growers and makers in the region.
A new website is helping connect families to the abundance of farm gates that are open locally for people to purchase their food from its source. As well as discovering local producers, the Get to know your grower website has details of farmers markets in the Macedon Ranges, and profiles on many of the stallholders.
An initiative of the Veg Action Group of the Macedon Ranges Sustainability Group, the engaging website encourages people to eat and grow more vegetables.
People can search for what is in season, get tips on growing their own produce and find home delivery fruit and vegetable boxes. There is also a list of cafes and pubs that stock vegetarian and plant-based options as well as vegetarian recipes.
“We encourage people to support our local farmers,” says Claire Rowland from the Veg Action Group.
“Not only does it strengthen the community, but it avoids the distribution problems that we are currently seeing. You know you will be getting the freshest produce grown in the rich soil and clean air of the Macedon Ranges and surrounds.”
Supported by Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health, Macedon Ranges Shire Council, and the Healthy Heart of Victoria project, it is hoped that Get to know your grower will grow as more suppliers are added.
You can access the website here: veg.mrsg.org.au
