MEDIA RELEASE Wednesday 1^st February 2012

“Support our farmers – don’t penalise them,” says Chris Presland, Chair of Green Box Regional Food Co-operative based in Gerringong.

As a price war over fruit and vegetables heats up between supermarket giants Coles and Woolworths, Coles says that by making fruit and vegetables more affordable they would provide a more certain market for Australian growers.

But vegetable industry body Ausveg and peak farming bodies state if the supermarkets got locked into a price war the opposite would be true.

“We are all pretty fed up with the big supermarkets trying to increase their bottom line profit at the expense of local producers and growers of our food. We need to make sure farmers are paid a fair price for what they grow to ensure they continue to grow our food.”

“There are alternatives out there to buying at big supermarkets, Green Box is one of those alternatives.”

Green Box is a locally owned and run co-operative that supports local producers by providing a distribution network from the farm directly to the customer.

Green Box members order online weekly then collect from the warehouse in Gerringong (or by home delivery). Their “Green Box” full of locally grown fruit, vegetables, bread, milk, yoghurts and cheeses as well as olives, biscuits, dry goods, oil and jams. Fruit and vegetables are often picked the day they are ordered.

“Green Box was started in 2010 and already we have over 150 members. We support many new and established growers who have been able to expand their business because they can more easily reach their customers,” Presland says.

“Consumers can make a real difference. Together we can make a significant difference.”

Chris Presland

Chair, Green Box Regional Food Co-operative

The Greenhorns and Joel Salatin in Gerringong, NSW, Australia

Please join us in Gerringong for an inspring night of film, food and
discussion with Special Guest ….Joel Salatin!!!
Monday 1stAugust. Doors open at 5:30pm
JoelSalatin, world-leader in innovative farming practices will be leading a
discussion which will get the whole town talking!
Our evening will consist of presentations from JoelSalatin, an inspiring new
film, ‘The Greenhorns’ , and tastes of our regions local produce.
Tickets : $15 or $10 concession – ticket price includes film and light supper
Bookings are essential , as places are limited.
To reserve your place, please call the Kiama Council booking line on 4232 0400

Hawkesbury Harvest Farm Gate Trail South Coast
The Green Box team have been very excited about our recent inclusion in the new “Hawkesbury Harvest Farm Gate Trail” map for the South Coast, featuring local growers, producers and suppliers. Here are a few of the Green Box team enjoying the launch, including lots of delicious food using local produce. Pick up a copy of the trail map at the Green Box warehouse, and start exploring the rich local foodie delights.