Feedback sought on shire’s local food plan

THE community has been invited to share their local food ideas and experiences in a survey, with feedback to contribute to Surf Coast Shire’s Local Food Program.

The Local Food Program 2018-21 aims to be a joint council-community partnership that increases the production and consumption of locally-grown food through a sustainable food system.

At its January meeting, the council adopted a Local Food Program Discussion Paper which is now open for comment.

Cr Carol McGregor said the survey, which closes on Sunday, provided people with food for thought on how the community and council could work together on a local food program.

“We want to increase the amount of local food that is grown, sourced, distributed and consumed in the Surf Coast, because we know the economic, environmental and health benefits that this brings.

“From local café employees, to childcare centres with their own garden, to residents who are regulars at their local farmers markets – we’re all involved in local food in some way. With this in mind, I encourage you to have your say.”

The survey prompts people to weigh in on the existing local food system, and consider future opportunities and challenges.

“The survey is a great way for people to highlight success stories and provide their thoughts across a diverse range of areas, including how to increase local employment in local food, reduce waste and raise awareness of how food can be shared in communities,” Cr McGregor said.

Survey data will be shared at coming workshops, with dates and venues to be advertised when confirmed.

Input from the survey and workshops will contribute to The Local Food Program 2018-21, which will ultimately outline actions to put the Surf Coast food system in a healthy position in the future.

To view the Local Food Program Discussion Paper and have your say, head to surfcoast.vic.gov.au/localfoodprogram. Hard copies of the survey can be collected from council offices in Torquay. The survey will close on Sunday, March 18.