Farms spruik southern fare
Southern Forests food producers are joining forces to promote agriculture and tourism to people outside the region.
For more than seven years, the Southern Forests Food Council has represented its clients’ interests by promoting business and tourism opportunities.
To this end, the newest initiative to attract visitors from WA and beyond is through the new Genuinely Southern Forests Food and Farm Experience.
The aim of the four-day, three-night tour is give people a unique experience and learn about where food comes from.
Tourism Research Australia data found that between 2010-11 and 2015-16, domestic tourists who visited a farm on their holiday increased on average by 9 per cent per year.
Southern Forests Food Council chairman Bevan Eatts said the tour had been developed in response to the growing demand for people seeking authentic experiences.
With more than 200 producers, the Food Council’s team has worked hard to provide varied tour itineraries throughout Manjimup, Pemberton, Northcliffe and Walpole.
“Whilst you can expect to delight your senses with avocados, stone fruit and brassicas in summer and autumn, winter will offer a range of truffles, chestnuts and pastured eggs,” Mr Eatts said.
CharCol Springs, Manjimup pastured eggs producers, use the growth in agri-tourism to educate people about environmentally-friendly and sustainable food practices.
“Genuinely Extraordinary is our chance to connect with visitors and with any luck, turn them into loyal customers and advocates for the Genuinely Southern Forests and CharCol Springs brand,” CharCol Springs co-owner Charlie Roberts said.
“We take them into the paddock and teach them first hand what it means to produce pastured eggs.”
Visit www.southernforestsfood.com for information about the food and farm experience.
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