Farm My School deepens roots as initiative expands

THE award-winning Farm My School model at Bellarine Secondary College will be rolled out at a second school, continuing the trailblazing initiative’s work to increase the community’s access to nutrient dense produce and build food literacy.

Enabled by a $760,000 grant from VicHealth, the Farm My School team will transform more than 1.5 acres of underused land at Colac Secondary College into a thriving regenerative community farm, attempting to again bring the community together to build a farm in a day.

“Inspired by a vision of a healthier future for our communities and planet, we’re redefining how farming and food production can shape education, inspire and foster stronger connections within communities,” Farm My School chief executive and co-founder James McLennan said.

“Thanks to VicHealth, we’re bringing meaningful change to another community and we’re expanding on our goal to help young people grow real food, develop real skills, and build real connection with community and Country.”

In 2022, more than 600 volunteers came together in Drysdale to help Farm My School transform the unused soccer pitch at Bellarine Secondary College into what is now a flourishing market garden that offers locals fresh, healthy produce, and people of all ages hands-on educational opportunities.

This impact is one the team is now hoping to replicate in the Colac Otway Shire, where more than 12 per cent of residents are anxious about running out of money to buy food and, according to the 2023 Victorian Population Health Survey, only 4 per cent of adults meet fruit and vegetable consumption guidelines.

Colac Otway mayor Jason Schram said the initiative was about making fresh, healthy food more accessible and affordable for households in the region.

“With the cost of living continuing to put pressure on local families, this initiative comes at a great time.

The project will be delivered in partnership with the Colac Otway Shire, Colac Secondary School, Colac Area Health and Farm My School.