Fundraising for Aussie farmers

Landcare Australia is launching the fundraising campaign ‘From Farm to Fork’ — an initiative to support the 150,000 farmers who produce 93% of the food consumed in Australia. The launch will take place on 7 September in Wynyard Park, Sydney, coinciding with the start of Landcare Week.

Event attendees will experience the opportunity to buy or taste homemade products straight from the farm; meet and hear from the farmers; cuddle up to animals in the petting zoo; and even ride a mechanical bull! They will also hear from the following special guests:

• Louise FitzRoy (MC) — journalist, food writer and kids’ educator
• Simon Lawson — head chef at Agape Organic Restaurant and Bar
• Samantha Gowing — head chef at Cabarita Ocean Retreat
• Charlie Arnott — grazier, landcarer and descendant of Arnott’s Biscuits creators
• Tessa Jakszewicz — CEO of Landcare Australia

“Australian farmers are a pivotal part of our future, because they are the people that grow and supply us with the best food in the world,” said Jakszewicz. “Our ‘From Farm to Fork’ campaign will help educate people about where food comes from, fund sustainable farming initiatives and encourage healthy eating — with everyone’s support, so much can be achieved.”

Arnott, who sells grass-fed beef direct to the public, added, “I challenge you to find yourself a farmer: go online, track one down, engage and connect with them, buy their food, visit their farm, support their business and reconnect with yourself and your family along the way.”

The launch event is just the start of From Farm to Fork, which will run throughout the season of spring. There are three ways to get involved in the campaign:

• Host a ‘From Farm to Fork Feast’. Use your cooking skills to produce some delicious Australian dishes at your home, school or workplace and ask your guests to donate.
• Take a ‘From Farm to Fork’ Fresh Living Challenge. Take part in a challenge to eat local, healthy, sustainable and fresh food, and ask your friends and family to sponsor you.
• Nominate or visit a participating restaurant. Restaurants throughout Australia will be hosting ‘From Farm to Fork Feasts’, showcasing the finest Australian produce using sustainable, fresh food, with proceeds going to Landcare Australia.

Proceeds from the campaign will go towards three important causes: supporting Australian farmers; teaching children where their food comes from; and supporting local Landcare groups.

From Farm to Fork will be launched on 7 September in Wynyard Park from 11 am–2 pm. For more information on the campaign, visit www.fromfarmtofork.org.au.