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Building Networks Abroad

Today's post I'd like to dedicate to all those involved in food systems work in Melbourne and the state of Victoria as a whole.  I realize that I've become so immersed in this world, but I haven't shared my master list of contacts.  For anyone who's interested in traveling to the area or finding a job in this field, I figure this would be helpful.  I've tried to give a brief description and organize them by theme as best as I could.  Most of the organizations will also have hyperlinks to take you directly to their website.  Enjoy!

Food Waste/Redistribution

  • Second Bite
    • Works to reduce food waste by collecting it from various markets and redistributing it across the city
  • OzHarvest
    • Works to reduce food waste by collecting it from anyone who has it to donate and redistributes to charities across the city
Community Gardens/Council Initiatives
*Please note that this list is not comprehensive, but only represents the areas that I'm familiar with in Melbourne.  There are many more Councils in Melbourne beyond what I have here*
  • Darebin Food Harvest Network
    • "Created to assist and support community groups and individuals in the Darebin community involved in or interested in sustainable food initiatives and / or improving food security"
  • Darebin Fruit Squad
    • Volunteers harvest fruit across Darebin from trees in need of picking  
  • Fitzroy Community Garden
    • Part of Community Grocer's operations.  Beautiful!
  • Collingwood Children's Farm
    • Family-friendly farm allowing those of all ages to interact with, feed, and learn about farm animals, growing food, etc.  Located at Abbotsford Convent
Broad-based food organizations
Food policy/planning reports
Farmers Markets

Farmer Promotion/Support
Persons of Significance
  • Dr. Nick Rose (Involved in pretty much everything)
    • Highly recommend picking up a copy of Fair Food
  • Kelly Donati (University of Melbourne, Slow Food Melbourne, Sustain)
  • Emmy Nicol (Previously with Farmer Incubator)
  • Prudence Rothwell (Melbourne Farmers Markets)
  • Guy Coleman (AgriEducate, use of tech in precision farming)
  • Catherine Phillips (University of Melbourne, researcher)

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