Gascoyne celebrates contribution of women for International Womens Day 2019

The Gascoyne Food Council is joining the push for greater recognition for female farmers this International Womens Day. Given, it wasn’t until 1994 that Australia recognised women’s legal status as farmers, instead of domestics, helpmates or farmers wives, there is still plenty of work to do.

Women on farms are estimated to make up 50% of the rural workforce and contribute 50% of rural income. However public perception of who are farmer is and what they look like usually does not evoke an image of a women.

To address this perception, the spotlight is being thrown on women farmers through Documentary Australia Foundation project called (In)visible Farmer. The project aims to produce short films to highlight stories of women in agriculture across rural Australia, as well as a long form documentary.

In Carnarvon, Ketut Bassett from Westut Plantation, Joanne Symonds from Bentwaters and Chris Higham from Meedo Station have joined the production.

On Chris’s property, business has evolved from keeping lambs and goats to value-adding and creating pies, curry’s and more.

“I am proud to declare that I am a farmer and a farmers wife,” says Chris Higham, who is also Deputy Chair of the Gascoyne Food Council.

“We’re pastoralists and I value-add our goat and lamb. It started off with the campground next door wanting me to supply camp oven meals. The goat curry became my signature dish. I started going to the markets selling meal packs, and then pies – that’s gone pretty crazy,” said Chris.

“Now it feels like I’m an educator, particularly at the Perth market. The consumer wants grain-free, free-range etc., but they don’t always understand the food production system.”

Gascoyne Food Council Executive Officer Doriana Mangili agrees.

“The challenge for our industry is that it’s not corporate farming, its family run farming which necessitates the involvement of all in the family. Often it is the women farmers who in addition to work in the field, bring the skills to undertake all the jobs that enable our farms to compete with the corporates and service the major retailers.” said Doriana.

The (In)visible Farmer series’ promo will be launched at the Rural, Regional, Remote Women’s Network of Western Australia (RRR Network) conference in Perth on 7th March.

The Gascoyne’s horticulture industry is currently valued at around $80 – $100 million a year, plus a pastoral industry valued at $25-35 million per year. There are many incredible women in the Gascoyne who drive innovation and will ultimately share the load in shaping the future of agriculture in the region.

Chair of the Gascoyne Food Council Kate Allen said, “this International Womens Day we are showing our respect and gratitude towards all our women farmers and the incredible contribution they make to the Gascoyne.”

More information: 
https://www.internationalwomensday.com
http://www.documentaryaustralia.com.au/films/4295/invisible-farmer

Keep the kids happy with these snackalicious pancakes by Nikki Heyder

Serves 2

Ingredients: 
1⁄2 cup quinoa flour
4 small carnarvon bananas 1⁄2 tsp cinnamon
1⁄4 tsp sea salt
2 tsp maple syrup
1⁄4 cup shredded coconut 1⁄2 cup coconut milk
1 egg
2 tbsp coconut oil

Method: 
1. Mash bananas in bowl
2. Add all remaining ingredients except coconut oil to form a thick batter
3. Heat a little coconut oil at a time in a non stick pan and cook pancakes in batches to
desired size
4. Flip after about 30 – 40 seconds or once golden on each side
5. Serve warm with a little maple syrup and fresh fruit

Summer time is the right time for this simple, refreshing drink by Nikki Heyder

Serves 4 – 6

Ingredients: 
1kg honeydew/rockmelon/Spanish melon, cut into cubes
1 cup water
2 tsp fine caster sugar
2 limes, juiced
300ml soda water
Mint leaves + lime wedges, to garnish

Method: 

1. Blend melon cubes, sugar and water in blender or food processor
2. Pour mixture through fine sieve over a large bowl and discard pulp
3. Stir in lime juice and distribute honeydew mixture evenly into glasses
4. Top each glass with cold soda water and garnish as you desire

36 tonnes of produce per year turned into quality preserves and ice creams in Carnarvon

On the 15th November Jo Bumbak was announced as the State Government’s Infinity Awards Waste Champion for 2018. The award is given to an individual who has demonstrated outstanding commitment and contribution to better waste management.

After seeing up to 60 per cent of all fresh grown produce go to waste in Carnarvon’s horticultural district, Jo Bumbak decided to take action. Working with local growers, Jo rescued fruit and vegetables deemed too unappealing for sale in supermarkets—using produce which would have otherwise been dumped and left to rot.

Last year, Bumbak’s Preserves and Ice Creams bought 36 tonnes of fresh mango, banana, tomato, chilli and capsicum, turning them into award winning products for sale. Jo has capitalised on growing consumer concern about where food comes from, winning over 100 awards at the Perth Royal Agricultural Show and providing support for Carnarvon farmers.

“Our family has been in farming for 60 years and would love to remain viable long into the future,” says Jo. “Through our business we are aiming to reduce waste, improve financial outcomes for industry and create delicious products that contain nothing artificial and no preservatives for visitors to enjoy all year round,” she said.

Jo’s contribution goes far beyond delicious food, including positively promoting Carnarvon and its horticultural industry by using the store as an educational tool for locals and tourists to the region.

“It is my passion to ensure Carnarvon is a successful and thriving town where visitors experience all the unique and amazing things that make it a paradise place,” said Jo.

Bumbak’s created over 140 preserves, 12 ice cream varieties and 6 fruit leathers in 2018, utilising over 100 varieties of local produce, with more exciting innovations to come through products, processing and packaging in the future. Bumbak’s is a must-do in Carnarvon for any visitors.

The Infinity Awards are coordinated by the Waste Authority WA and acknowledge and celebrate the outstanding achievements of Western Australians working towards a better waste future through improved waste practices and innovative waste solutions.

The perfect recipe to enjoy this festive season! A healthy recipe using delicious herbs and spices. Spiced Grain + Grape Salad Recipe by Nikki Heyder

Serves 4 – 6

Ingredients
1.5 cups red rice
1 cup slivered almonds
1/2 cup coconut flakes
2 tbsp coconut oil
2 red shallots, finely sliced
2cm piece ginger, grated
3 cloves garlic, finely sliced
2 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp cumin seeds
2 tsp mild curry powder
1 chilli, finely sliced (optional)
1 tin chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 cup mint, finely chopped
1 cup parsley, finely chopped
1 cup coriander, finely chopped
1 cup green grapes, cut into halves or quarters 1 tsp sea salt
1 tsp black pepper
Juice of 1 lemon 

Method

1. Bring pot of lightly salted water to the boil and cook rice according to packet instructions (usually about 30 minutes for red/brown rice) 
2. Meanwhile, heat non stick pan and lightly toast almonds and coconut flakes until golden and fragrant – set aside for later 
3. Heat coconut oil in same pan and cook onion until soft and translucent 
4. Add ginger, garlic, spiced and chickpeas and continue cooking for a further 2 – 3 minutes 
5. Once rice has cooked, strain well and put into large mixing bowl 
6. Add onion/chickpea mix to the rice along with toasted almonds/coconut flakes, herbs,
   grapes, salt, pepper and lemon juice – mix well to combine 
7. Serve in a large salad bowl – enjoy! 

Buy West Eat Best for the freshest produce experience. The Gascoyne Food Council wants Perth consumers to be reminded that local, in-season produce is the best choice as Carnarvon grapes start hitting supermarket shelves.

“December means local Grapes are now in season” said Gascoyne Food Council’s Executive Officer Doriana Mangili. “Buying local not only tastes better, but contributes to the Western Australian economy as well,” Doriana says.

Carnarvon grower’s Bumbak and Sons have reported that unusual cold weather has slowed the ripening process resulting in picking a little later than expected. However, produce will reach shops in late November and consumers will be able to enjoy a range of varieties of grapes through to mid-January with produce being available across major retailers and independent stores in Western Australia.

Close to Christmas the unique varieties of Cotton Candy, a fairy floss flavoured grape will be available as well as the Candy Hearts variety with a sweet candy flavour. With the huge variety of colours, varieties and flavours there is something for everyone to enjoy.

“Later picking has given us plenty of time to finish our program of crop management. After pruning we have had a team of 50 workers leafing and bunch trimming by hand aiming to increase crop quality,” said Mark Bumbak.

“There really are some stand out grapes to keep your eye out for this year, for reds the Sweet Celebration is large, sweet and a crunchier grape. For a black grape Sweet Sapphire – it is an elongated grape with a dimple in it’s base and is beautiful to taste, definitely worth a try. Finally for green keep your eye out for Autumn Crisp, a large round berry, with a supersized crunch and taste to match, Sweet Globe is a large round sweet grape with a crunch factor,” said Mark.

“What better way to celebrate the festive season than with local produce? It is the gift that keeps on giving as it ensures customers get great food to enjoy, and that our industry can continue to grow and thrive into the future,” said Doriana.

The State Government announcement that fracking will be permitted in the Mid-West and Gascoyne regions has raised serious concerns on the potential contamination of water sources used for horticulture, pastoral industry, tourism and fishing industry.

Reacting to the announcement, Chairman of the Gascoyne Food Council, Michael Nixon, said “We are extremely disappointed and concerned that the State Government is going to allow fracking in regions where there is established horticulture and food production industries.” 

Calling for a ban on fracking where water is designated for human consumption or farming, Mr Nixon said “The only reasonable outcome is to ban fracking in any region where there is a recognised aquifer to ensure there is no chance of a detrimental effect on precious water sources.”

The Gascoyne River is the longest river in Western Australia at 865 kilometres long, with three tributaries and a catchment of over 76 thousand square kilometres.  When the river is in flood any contamination would be impossible to contain. 

The River also has a complex network of underground aquifers that are not mapped or fully understood.    The State Government report claims that the risk of contamination is low, however the impact of any contamination of these aquifers is extremely high and therefore unacceptable to communities reliant on the subterranean water.

“Contamination of the underground aquifers would be irreversible” said Mr Nixon “We are concerned about food security and ensuring we maintain water security for future generations.”

Mr Nixon also questioned the scientific rationale for banning fracking in the South West but allowing it to occur in the North adding “Where is the science that recommends fracking in our region but bans it in the South West? Due to the complex nature of our aquifers the risks and impacts of fracking in the North may be even higher.”

Mr Nixon referred to the incredible environment Gascoyne Food is grown, fished and farmed in, adding “We produce food in one of the most pristine environments on the planet, we have two marine world heritage areas on our doorstep and a high value fishing industry operating off shore.   The impact of fracking in our region would be far reaching and devastating.  Contamination of the water would result in irreparable damage and the Gascoyne Community and those of the Mid-West that are so reliant on subterranean waters are not willing to accept these risks.” 

Gascoyne promotions hit the mark at 2018 Perth Royal Show

For the first time the Shire of Carnarvon and Gascoyne Food Council have joined forces to shine a spotlight on the Gascoyne region and the newly anointed Top Tourism Town of Carnarvon during the Perth Royal Show. The collaboration was a triumph with the Shire declaring the event one of the most successful consumer shows it has delivered. 

Warm weather brought the crowds and gave the Gascoyne team the opportunity to engage with a huge number of visitors across the 8 day event, handing out over 30,000 food samples and over 2500 Carnarvon and Coral Bay Destination Guides. Plus selling some amazing Gascoyne treats, including preserves, chocolate coated bananas, Sweeter Banana bread and award-winning Gelatino Banana Gelato. 

Visitors to the stand also spent time enjoying the ‘It’s time to discover Carnarvon & Coral Bay’ map and exhibit, where they could imagine themselves swimming with the whale sharks, experiencing extraordinary station stays and going off the beaten track in the Southern Ningaloo Reef region. 

Food samples included Harvey Beef slow cooked butterflied beef, Sweeter Banana bread and fresh bananas, hand crafted preserves, along with a huge range of Carnarvon produce including capsicums, tomatoes, corn, onions, paw paw, black sapote, beans, pumpkins, zucchini and paprika. Much of the produce donated by growers thanks to the support of the Carnarvon Growers Association. 

Shire President Karl Brandenburg was highly supportive of the team effort. “It was fantastic to see Carnarvon and the amazing Gascoyne produce on showcase again at the Perth Royal Show this year,” he said. 

Visitor Centre Coordinator Stephanie Leca stated that the collaboration with the Gascoyne Food Council was timely off the back of the recent announcement of Carnarvon as the Top Tourism Town for 2018.  “We believe collaborating shows unity in our region. Food tourism is the fastest growing driver of tourism in the world and linking closely with the Gascoyne Food Council is successfully placing Carnarvon as a highlighted tourism destination,” said Stephanie. 

Executive Officer of the Gascoyne Food Council Doriana Mangili agrees.“Many years of hard work have gone into establishing our region as a quality food supplier and destination for travel and as such it is critical for the Food Council to have close working relationships with our local Shire and Visitor Centre,” said Doriana. 

“Our team effort at the Perth Royal Show brought together the most amazing elements of our incredible region and showcased them to a huge audience – it was a win win,” she concluded. 

More information: 

Carnarvon Visitor Centre: https://www.carnarvon.org.au

Shire of Carnarvon: http://carnarvon.wa.gov.au

Gascoyne Food Council: https://www.gascoynefood.com.au 

Facebook: @carnarvonvisitorcentre

Instagram: @carnarvonvisitorcentre

Contact Stephanie Leca on (08)9941 1146 or leca.s@carnarvon.wa.gov.au.

Top Tourism Town Information: 

Carnarvon recently won the Top Tourism Town Award, announced at the annual WA Tourism Conference in Perth. The prize consists of a $10,000 GWN 7 Advertising Package. 

The honours are awarded every second year to regional destinations in the state, with the previous winner being Albany. This year Carnarvon was up against two other finalists, Christmas Island and Coolgardie, and also took the sub-category prize for Community Engagement. 

Winning the Top Town Award required submitting a comprehensive 20-page document plus a 2 minute destination video. Judges then visited each finalist to experience the range of tourism activities on offer. 

In Carnarvon the judges were able to enjoy visits to the Space Museum located at the iconic Satellite Dish, the Carnarvon Heritage Precinct, local food outlets, the visitor centre, the Fruit Loop  route to sample local produce, and a Scenic Flight with Coral Coast Helicopters Services – Landing at the One Mile Jetty Heli-Pad. 

Stakeholders from the region also hosted the judges at a special networking event, including the Shire of Carnarvon executive management team, volunteers from the Space Museum, Caravan Park operators, Local Business operators, Chamber of Commerce, Shire President and Councillors plus Advisory Committee members of the Carnarvon Heritage Precinct.