The Huon Valley Food Hub was a Council-led initiative that ran from 2021 to 2024, working to grow a vibrant and connected local food system.
Through community workshops and collaboration with local producers, the project aimed to:
- Increase access to locally grown food
- Support small-scale producers and growers
- Build community connections around food
- Strengthen our local food economy
The project brought together growers, consumers, businesses and community members to celebrate and strengthen the Valley’s food culture.
Why did it conclude?
After three years of successful programs, Council sought community groups to continue stewarding the initiative. Due to the project’s scale and resourcing needs, no group was able to take on this role, and the formal project concluded in 2024.
Success Stories
Farmgate Blitz Program
10 intensive workshops supported small-scale producers with expert mentoring in market gardening and regenerative production techniques, helping local farmers build capacity and diversity.
Sacred Country Project
In partnership with Sacred Heart Catholic School Geeveston, Aboriginal young people and teachers shared knowledge of traditional edible natives and regenerative land management, deepening connection to Country.
Growing Together Harvest Festival
A curated program of community celebrations and events across Huon Valley townships brought producers and consumers together to celebrate the harvest season through local feasts, cooking demonstrations, and workshops.
Food Box Prototype
A local food trading system that created reliable markets for producers while providing fresh surplus food to Huonville Primary School and supporting food access in our community.
National Recognition
The Huon Valley Food Hub was shortlisted as a finalist in the 2023 National Economic Development Awards for Excellence – the only Tasmanian council recognised.
Resources & Reports
The Food Hub project generated valuable research and resources about local food systems:
- [Resources from Padlet extraction]
- [Resources from Padlet extraction]
- [Resources from Padlet extraction]
- [Resources from Padlet extraction]
The Legacy Continues
While the formal Food Hub project has concluded, many initiatives and connections continue:
Support local food
- [Link to Farm Gate Directory/Markets page]
- [Link to Local Producers Directory if available]
- [Link to Farmers Markets information]
Community food initiatives
[List any ongoing community-led projects that emerged from the Food Hub]
Get involved
Community members interested in local food initiatives can:
- Visit local farm gates and markets
- Support Huon Valley producers
- Connect with community food groups
Questions?
For enquiries about the Huon Valley Food Hub project or accessing archived materials:
Contact: [Community & Place Department contact details]
Email: [email]
Phone: [phone]