Food & Fibre Gippsland has returned from the international stage with a significant accolade after representing the region at the International Urban and Regional Cooperation (IURC) Second Thematic Workshop in Singapore, held in conjunction with the World Cities Summit 2026.
As part of its industry leadership role in agriculture through One Gippsland, Food & Fibre Gippsland is actively collaborating with European regions on Resilient Agri-Food Systems and Forestry.
The program engages international partners across Western Greece, Poland and Macedonia, focusing on two key pillars aligned with the local organisation’s strategic direction: Circular economy and zero waste and regional branding, provenance, and traceability via the Gippsland Trusted program.
At the Singapore workshop, participating communities of practice voted on the most innovative work being undertaken across 21 active global collaborations. Gippsland’s contribution to Resilient Agri-Food Systems and Forestry was awarded the top spot for innovation across all 21 fields.
The conference also provided a vital opportunity for project colleagues from Western Greece, Poland, and Macedonia to meet face-to-face for the first time to deepen their collaboration. The delegation engaged with global industry leaders in sustainable construction, including further conversations regarding Industrial Hemp — an area where Food & Fibre Gippsland continues to lead advocacy across the region.
The success of the summit paves the way for further international cooperation, with several European partner regions scheduled to visit Gippsland on official study tours later this year.
Food & Fibre Gippsland extended its thanks to One Gippsland Chair and South Gippsland Shire Mayor, Cr Nathan Hersey, for the opportunity and ongoing support throughout the program, congratulating him on his advocacy for the Gippsland region on the world stage.
