Mornington Peninsula Shire Council has launched a new six-year Food Economy and Agroecology Strategy.
The Strategy, which Council says is the first of its kind in Australia, is a collective action plan to radically transform the way food is produced on the Peninsula.
It was commissioned to drive sustainable growth in the agriculture, food and beverage sector whilst actively regenerating the land and resources on which our community depends.
“We know the importance of the food economy to the future of our community,” said Mayor, Steve Holland.
“The Peninsula’s agriculture, food and beverage sector is worth an estimated $1.3 billion and is one of the key growth industries in the local economy.
“This Strategy charts a course to a thriving and sustainable food economy,” he said.
The Strategy looks at preserving and enhancing the regions ecology and biodiversity through agroecological approaches to farming and production.
The launch day included conversations and learnings on agroecology with internationally renowned farmer and activist, Tammi Jonas; a presentation on farmland covenants by Cecilia Riebl from Trust for Nature; and a panel discussion on activating land for the next generation of regenerative food producers through collaborative farming models.
Barragunda Farm hosted the day, with lunch curated by Simone Watts and Millers Bakery, featuring produce from the Barragunda Collective.
The launch day brought together farmers, local food industry businesses, key agricultural stakeholders, regional collaborators, Councillors and Shire representatives.
To learn more click here.