Free forum for food future

PEOPLE are being invited to a free forum taking place next month and run in partnership with Golden Plains Shire and Sustain: The Australian Food Network.

With the municipality to soon establish a community food network for the region this year, the forum will be geared towards opening the initiative up to farmers and foodies.

Mayor Cr Brett Cunningham encouraged everyone to attend.

“The Golden Plains Food Forum is an excellent opportunity for residents interested in joining the independent Community Food Network in 2024 and to learn more about the local food climate in Golden Plains Shire,” he said.

“You’ll have the opportunity to hear from a diverse range of leaders and changemakers as well as collaborate with likeminded community members.

“The forum reflects our commitment to fostering better food systems which is a priority area in our Vic Health Local Government Partnership.”

The network is set to be made up of an independent group of foodies and farmers with the aim of developing strategies to support the region’s agricultural and food output.

Gardening Australia’s Millie Ross will serve as keynote speaker.

Other contributors will include Cr Gavin Gamble as well as Common Ground Project’s Amy Tracey, Greens party upper house MP for Western Victoria Sarah Mansfield, Ballarat Community Health’s Elizabeth Roberts, Amanda Fisher from Geelong Food Assistance Network, and Sustain: The Australian Food Network’s Dr Nick Ross.

The free food forum is set to take place on Saturday 16 March from 10am to 3pm at the Golden Plains Civic Centre at Bannockburn.

Registration is required and can be done from the events page at the municipality’s website.