Western Australian Corn Growers were just one of the local food and drink businesses celebrated as part of Buy West Eat Best’s WA Food Heroes campaign.
Jim Trandos, the managing director of the Wanneroo-based producer, said the social media campaign was a nice boost for an industry working overtime to keep shelves stocked during the pandemic.
“Fortunately, local orders haven’t varied a lot besides from the couple weeks of panic buying where things really went up and down,” he said.
“For us, sticking together and overcoming one hurdle at a time – whether it’s packaging delays or movement permits between regions for product – has been the hardest part of the crisis. But thanks to that hard work, we’re coming through on the other side.”
While Buy West Eat Best has been supporting local producers and restaurants for more than 14 years, program manager Melissa Worthington said the pandemic had highlighted the benefits of buying from members.
“Western Australians are increasingly more aware of how much produce we import and export,” Ms Worthington said.
“Generally, I think we all believe in supporting local, but now more than ever is the time to do that and support the many WA Food Heroes across our community.”
The WA Food Heroes campaign showcased a number of growers, farmers, fishers, retailers and restaurants through social media to build consumer awareness of the efforts required to maintain the local food and agricultural industries.
“We’re extremely fortunate in WA, with unparalleled access to stunning seasonal fruits and vegetables, hand-crafted and artisan products and a dynamic and evolving dining culture,” she said.
“The COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted that for a large majority of our members. That’s why recognising their outstanding hard work and dedication is so important. And encouraging more people in WA to buy local.”
Whether it was celebrating the best quality produce, the creation of jobs, or keeping morale high with outstanding cuisine and customer service, the WA Food Heroes campaign acknowledged the huge commitment and contribution the food and drink industry makes to the State.
Employing around 100 full-time and contracted staff across the State, WA Corn Growers turned their focus to the local market during the pandemic as national and international markets take time to recover. And in typical glass half-full spirit, Mr Trandos believes the shift could mean good things for the environment.
“We produce at least one semi-trailer load of corn and beans per day in WA – 100 percent locally grown and packed, might I add,” he said.
“By delivering a truly WA product to local consumers we significantly lower food miles, meaning fresher, longer lasting produce and fewer carbon emissions. Plus, a great thing for the economy; supporting local contractors and jobs.”
Like WA Corn Growers, Michael Brothers is committed to sustainable practices, and, like Jim Trandos, owners Martin and Dustin Michael embody the spirit of WA Food Heroes.
Hardworking and committed to quality, the country lads were raised on a farm and have not lost sight of their heritage. Their cold-pressed juices and Funk Cider are made from locally sourced fruit and slow pressed the traditional way.
And the brothers refuse to compromise on quality when things get tough. They simply find a way to pivot so they can keep people employed and the business ticking over.
“These are difficult times for everyone, including those, like us, who are so closely connected to hospitality,” Martin Michael said. “In saying that, it is also at times like this we see the start of some really creative ideas and opportunities.”
The brothers say they have used that positive approach to keep spirits high and launch an online store, as well doing home deliveries.
It’s here where Western Australian consumers can really step up to the plate. “The best way to help support local is to buy from local businesses and share the great experiences with their friends and family,” Mr Michael said.