Do you have a lemon tree that refuses to slow down? A herb garden overflowing with parsley? A handful of seeds collected from your favourite flowers?
Wodonga Council is excited to launch the Community Fresh Food Swap, a vibrant six-month pilot program designed to help locals share fresh produce, reduce food waste and cultivate meaningful community connections.
Beginning on Saturday, September 12 at Hyphen - Wodonga Library Gallery, the monthly event invites locals to bring along surplus homegrown fruit, vegetables, herbs, seeds, cuttings, flowers and seedlings to exchange with fellow gardeners.
With community produce swaps growing in popularity across Australia, this social-sharing initiative offers a simple way for local green thumbs to share in the rewards after a successful harvest, while discovering produce they may not grow themselves.
The swap aims to build a welcoming network of local gardeners to share tips, learn from each other's experiences and connect over a warm drink.
So... how does it work?
Local backyard gardeners are invited to bring homegrown produce they are proud to share, whether it's a basket full of seasonal vegetables or a handful of herbs, and exchange their goods with other attendees.
Each event is free to attend with the only requirement being that participants bring their own produce, however large or small, to contribute.
Because items are shared rather than sold, no money changes hands, making involvement simple and inclusive.
This initiative will see the Community Studio become a vibrant hub, with fresh produce swapping hands on the second Saturday of each month until the end of February 2027.
Volunteers will play an important role in the success of the pilot, helping to welcome attendees, facilitate swaps, share knowledge and create a friendly atmosphere.
Manager Community Development, Simone Hogg, said that the initiative would create opportunities for connections to flourish alongside homegrown produce.
"We know that communities across the country see the value in these types of events and we look forward to creating a welcoming space where fresh produce brings people together here in Wodonga," said Simone.
"This is a wonderful opportunity for local gardening enthusiasts to come together and celebrate their shared passion for creating thriving greenspaces."
"If attendees leave with a basket of fresh vegetables, an innovative gardening tip or simply a new acquaintance in the community, then the swap has been a huge success."
The pilot also complements the council's recently developed Food Security and Nutrition Resource, supporting residents to learn about, prepare and enjoy eating healthy food while reducing waste and making affordable food choices.
Whether you're a seasoned gardener or simply have a few extra zucchinis to share, everyone is warmly welcomed to contribute and become part of this new local network.
The Community Fresh Food Swap will take place from 11am to 12.30pm in the Community Studio at Hyphen - Wodonga Library Gallery on:
- Saturday, September 12, 2026
- Saturday, October 10, 2026
- Saturday, November 14, 2026
- Saturday, December 12, 2026
- Saturday, January 9, 2027
- Saturday, February 13, 2027
Get ready to dig in and connect with your local gardening community.
