A new initiative bringing Orbost residents together over fresh, homegrown produce is already proving a success.
The community produce swap, held at the Orbost Neighbourhood House courtyard, invites locals to swap excess fruit, vegetables, homemade preserves, seeds, seedlings and other homegrown products.
The swap takes place on the last Saturday of each month from 10am to 1pm.
Organiser Nay Martin said the first two sessions have seen around 15 attendees
each, with an incredible range of produce
on offer.
“We’ve had a wonderful selection, including herbs, chillies, tomatoes, strawberry guava, cucumbers and Asian vegetables” Nay said.
“Community members have also promised to bring pumpkins, American mustard greens, relishes, a variety of dried herbs, and even seeds and seedlings to help others grow their own gardens.”
Nay praised the spirit of generosity shown by the community.
“It’s amazing to see the variety and quality of produce people are sharing. Orbost
really does have an outstanding community,” she said.
As the seasons change, so too does the produce available. With the cooler months approaching, summer favourites like tomatoes, stone fruits and berries are being preserved into jams and chutneys, while winter staples such as zucchini, pumpkins and leafy greens are becoming more prominent.
The community produce swap is open to everyone and offers a fantastic opportunity to socialise and connect with others, as well as an opportunity to share gardening and foraging knowledge.
The next swap will be held on Saturday,
May 31, from 10am to 1pm at the Neighbourhood House courtyard.
Everyone is welcome to come along, whether you’re swapping, sharing, or simply having a look.
