Fresh, affordable food will become more accessible across Mitchell and Murrindindi Shires thanks to the launch of the Nourishing Neighbourhoods project - a regional partnership supported by health promotion foundation VicHealth.
The project was officially launched today in Broadford, with Mitchell Shire Mayor Cr John Dougall and VicHealth Health Promotion Systems Executive Michelle Murray joining community partners for morning tea to mark the occasion.
Mayor Dougall said the initiative will deliver lasting change by supporting community led solutions that make healthy food easier to grow, share and enjoy close to home.
"Access to healthy food shouldn't depend on where you live or how much you earn. With this funding, we can support practical, grassroots initiatives - from composting workshops and shared gardens to seed saving programs - that build resilience, connection and pride in our neighbourhoods," Cr Dougall said.
A key focus of the project will be developing local food resources that map where and how people can access fresh, healthy and culturally appropriate food, and identifying where improvements are needed. This will help councils and service partners respond in ways that make a real difference.
Partners acknowledged at the launch included the Goulburn Valley Public Health Unit, Women's Health Goulburn Northeast, Murrindindi Shire Council, The Centre Seymour, Whittlesea Community Connections, Love in Action groups, Neighbourhood Houses Victoria, and local neighbourhood houses in Wallan, Broadford and Seymour.
VicHealth Executive Manager of Health Promotion Systems, Michelle Murray, said the Nourishing Neighbourhoods project will boost access to nutritious food and create a resilient, sustainable food system that will support the Mitchell and Murrindindi Shires into the future.
"Food is at the heart of our health and wellbeing. Nourishing Neighbourhoods is bringing local organisations and people together to create a food system where everyone can enjoy fresh, delicious, and culturally appropriate food with ease," Ms Murray said. "VicHealth is proud to support this important initiative through our Local Partnerships for Food First, addressing local food challenges and responding to the needs of the community."
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