Unearthing Armidale's Diverse Food Economy

During the consultation period, the facilitators of the Armidale Climate and Health project identified the food system (growing and consumption) as a cornerstone issue for addressing climate change and human health crises together. To put indigenous knowledge at the centre of any solution to the related climate and health crises, we also need to talk about land, water and how they are used. We already know that current food system is part of the problem and local food networks are absolutely key to the solution, so what’s next? We held an event to have a wide-ranging discussion with a group of key stakeholders in the local food network in Armidale to learn more about the network in order to better be able to support local food growing activities and also strengthen the community.

This event was invite only. Those invited were recognised by organisers or recommended by those in the network as someone interested in local food (growing, selling, or community organising around food). We invited them to a research event related to the local food economy. It was facilitated by the Armidale Climate and Health Project’s co-facilitator Dr Jennifer Hamilton and Dr Nicolette Larder from Geography at UNE.

Focus Group in NERAM’s Packsaddle Studio

WHERE: NERAM and The Armidale Community Garden

WHEN: Sunday June 20, 1pm-4pm (the closest weekend to the winter solstice!)

WE PROVIDED: afternoon tea.

PARTICIPANTS BROUGHT: A mug, warm clothes, thoughts about land, food, livelihood and environment.