Save The Urban Farm Maroochy Neighbourhood Centre

Hello, good day to the community.

My name is Simon, and I serve as the coordinator for the Urban Farm Social Enterprise project.

We operate a community farm that sells organic wellness farm boxes. They are all chemical-free, nutrient-rich, cultivated using regenerative agricultural practices, and harvested fresh just before customer collection. The profits are directed to the Maroochy Neighbourhood Centre to support their services for community members in need. Our primary clientele includes individuals grappling with homelessness and families affected by the cost of living crisis.

The farm is more than a place to grow some of the healthiest produce available. It's a sanctuary surrounded by lush, abundant edible plants, offering a serene safe haven. Often referred to as garden therapy, it provides a space for people to grow, build confidence, socialize and learn.

Any gardener will tell you the joy they feel after an afternoon spent digging in rich, living soil. Research has shown that geosmin in the soil can release serotonin, the 'happiness hormone.' Similarly, harvesting has been linked to the release of oxytocin, the 'love hormone,' going back to our ancestral brains and the reward mechanisms for remembering food locations from our foraging past.

The Urban Farm provides a volunteer program that supports a range of benefits. It assists individuals recovering from trauma, anxiety, grief, and depression, as well as NDIS participants, people with acquired brain injuries, apprentices, and Centrelink volunteers, among others.

A particularly moving tale from the farm involves a young father with terminal cancer whose family's dedication to consuming our clean, fresh, nutrient-rich food contributed to the reduction of two tumors, allowing for surgical intervention and his subsequent cancer-free status.

As a burgeoning social enterprise, we've seen a steady increase in revenue from the sales of farm produce, honey, and from conducting workshops and farm tours. These tours provide an enriching experience for both children and adults, with something to learn for everyone. We also offer a free community compost program that grows annually. Our commitment to being an environmentally conscious business ensures we take care of the planet that sustains us.

Unfortunately due to unforeseen events by the Maroochy Neighbourhood Centre, the farm may have to close in 4 weeks, stopping all programs and the positive contribution it gives to the local community. It will be sad and a real shame that this new food system that harvests food minutes before collection will not be able to come to its full fruition.

All funds received will be allocated to maintain the farm and its programs, ensuring they remain operational for those in need.

Thank you for hearing our story. Please get in touch if you wish to learn more and explore ways you can help.

Simon Rixon

The Urban Farm Co-ordinator