Community Food Infrastructures Workshop

On the 28th March 2025, Dr Nicolette Larder and Dr Jen Hamilton are holding a presentation at NOVA Smart Region Incubator to present the findings of their research and to explore possibilities for next steps.

We have undertaken research into how to simultaneously improve human and planetary health by examining how to build community food infrastructures (CFIs) that are socially and environmentally just. This has all been part of the Armidale Climate and Health Project.

CFIs are small-scale, physical and organisational structures and facilities that support the development of healthy, resilient and sustainable food systems and communities. They enable access to healthy food for marginalised groups who suffer a disproportionate chronic disease and health burden, while also supporting the adaptation of the wider agri-food system. Examples include community gardens, food cooperatives, food banks, food relief services, free or low cost soup kitchens and community dinners, food co-ops and pay-what-you can restaurants. 

We are especially interested in collective community meal events, and have experimented with different kinds of community meals in Armidale and also researched community meal initiatives across greater Sydney. One of the things we found is that it is very hard for community organisations to find affordable food to provide for the community in need while also sourcing sustainably produced food. This food tends to be more expensive and a luxury item for wealthier people. We are interested in this dilemma and how it relates both to long term public health and wellbeing and also to climate adaptation. 

The first part of the day will present the findings from the research so far. Then the workshop will pose the question: How do we make an inclusive, healthful and sustainable community dinner, and pay-the-rent? We would ultimately like to try to do this work in practice and put the event on for the community, and track how hard/easy it is to do this work. 

We are seeking folks with expertise in the food, health or environment in Armidale to help us plan the dinner. The workshop has ethics approval and with consent of participants we would like to take note and record the discussion to inform the next steps of the project. 

This event is invite only as we are trying to focus the conversation for people who can help with planning, but we are working towards future wider community events in this space. But if you’re interested in the event and haven’t received an invitation please contact Jen Hamilton on: jennifer dot hamilton at une dot edu dot au.

WHERE: NOVA Smart Region Incubator, 122 Faulkner Street Armidale

WHEN: March 28, 2025 from 9am-1pm