The Southern Forests Food Council Inc. was established in September 2012 to represent the interests of local producers, culinary and agri-tourism operators and to further the Southern Forests region’s status as the South West’s food bowl. 

Why is it important?
The Southern Forests Food Council, taking in the towns of Manjimup, Pemberton, Walpole and Northcliffe, is home to an incredible variety of produce and experiences. These include around 50 different fruits and vegetables, truffles and boutique produce, and dairy and cattle farms, as well as award-wining wineries, and exceptional culinary experiences. In all, the agricultural sector is valued at around $96 million per annum, making it the area’s most significant economic driver and representing a major opportunity to drive growth in the region.

The Food Council will play a critical role in unifying the area’s diverse producers to strengthen economic performance, attract further investment, create jobs, promote regional pride and ultimately achieve recognition as a highly regarded culinary tourism destination.

Who’s involved?
The Food Council was initially founded by a group of passionate local producers and those recognising the benefits that food-tourism could bring the area in late 2010.

It’s role was formalised following the receipt of funding under the State Government’s SuperTowns initiative. A copy of the business plan associated with the funding is attached.

A Steering Group, incorporating the Department of Agriculture and Food WA, Shire of Manjimup and South West Development Commission, was set up to support and monitor the project, with the Council’s first Executive Officer Jeff Pow being appointed in October 2012.  (Read more about Mr Pow here)

Following a terrific response from the community the Southern Forests Food Council has appointed it inaugural Committee of Management to help steer agricultural expansion in the region and promote the area as a national and international culinary destination.

The new Southern Forests Food council Committee of Management consists of:

How is it funded?
Through the State Government’s Royalties for Regions’ Manjimup SuperTowns initiative, the Southern Forests Food Council has been awarded a $5 million investment, as part of a $7 million allocation to the Shire of Manjimup for its agricultural expansion, in May 2012. 

SuperTowns is an $85.5 mission initiative, under the Royalties for Regions program, to support population growth in southern WA.  To date 17 major projects have been identified for funding across nine strategically located SuperTowns; Boddington, Collie, Esperance, Jurien Bay, Katanning, Manjimup, Margaret River, Morawa and NOrtham.  The progrem is administered by the Western Australian Government's Department of Regional Development and Lands.

Where can I get further information?

Read the latest media statement from the Southern Forests Food Council here.

For further details, contact: