The opportunity to get together and hear both sides of the discussion has been a valuable exercise. Helping each side to be aware of the challenges and opportunities that exist to work collaboratively and get great outcomes. It went like this: Tuesday 28th August at Willie Smiths Apple Cidery , 85 Procures and Producers attended the Procurer Meets Producer Event. An event that was held to facilitate collaborative discussion addressing challenges that restrict venues (the procurers) and small producers doing business together and recognising that opportunities exist that can be taken, that barriers exist that can be managed and that there are reasonable and achievable ways forward. Major issues were: • Cost of a premium product from small producers can inhibit what goes on the menu
• Knowing where to source particular produce from • Knowing the lead time for produce to be available • Understanding seasonality issues and chefs reflecting this in menus • Transportation to procurer and consistency of delivery and quantity • Communications between producers and procurers. Actively building relationships between both parties • Regulation can be an inhibitor Where to from here: There has been some positive discussion and results already. Government House has a history of promoting local producers and can offer opportunities throughout the year where they can hold free events for small producers to show case their produce to willing investors. These are free to the small business and a great opportunity for local procurers to see what is available and gain knowledge of the produce and its capabilities. They aim to: • inform potential markets (local, national and international) of produce that is available from small producers in Tasmania • provide educational and professional development opportunities for industry chefs and operators There are opportunities from on-site farm and venue based food trail tours that can enhance the availability and knowledge of produce and how it can be used in the community. A lot of other communication is happening and this can only enhance the opportunities out there. There are already working examples of Restaurant Supported Agriculture (RSA) and Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) opportunities out there and all parties should investigate these. More information about the Government House opportunities and other possibilities will be out through THA media channels during October. In the meantime if you wish to speak to someone on this, please contact Peter Handy on:
Phone: 0404 031 004 or Email: peter@tha.asn.au
October 2018 www.tha.asn.au
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