To ensure the fresh produce market they have created in collaboration with the Maitland Council and local farmers stays true to its roots, Slow Food Hunter Valley will make history on Thursday when the growing venture becomes Australia’s first Earth Market.
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This world-wide network has been established according to guidelines that follow the Slow Food philosophy – Good, Clean and Fair Food for all.
An Earth Market is created when an interested community come together to establish a new place for consumers and food producers to meet. And, this is exactly what has transpired in Maitland after the plight of local farmers came to the attention of Slow Food Hunter Valley leader, Amorelle Dempster.
The chef, cafe owner, and driving force behind the evolving market, has been involved with the Slow Food movement for over 20 years. “We can buy any type of food we want in Australia but we are not good at thinking about the politics of food,” she explains.
However, it was the prospect of Morpeth farmer, Matt Dennis, having to “plough in a 40-tonne pumpkin crop” that really prompted her to take action. This is when Ms Dempster approached the Council with her idea – to sell the pumpkins for $3 each at a pop-stand in the heart of Maitland at The Levee.
All this transpired just over 12 months ago and now the vision moving forward is about diversity and giving local artisan producers a voice. Along with encouraging young farmers to grow food and supply the community to ensure food security and for good health.