Connection to local food sources and support of local growers key to co-op
By Sonia Isaacs
Producers Name : Ketakii Jewson-Brown
Location: Witta
Q: In a few words how would you best describe your fresh produce gathering?
My husband and I have a small garden behind the house that we are renting in Witta.
We plant seasonal produce and currently have green beans, snow peas, broccoli, silverbeet and asian greens. We have an abundance of different varieties of chillies that seem to do well all year round, as well as an incredible lemon tree.
Q: Why is this important to you?
Growing up my mother was always gardening, in fact she still is to this day. It is something that feels so normal and natural to me, it would be weirder to not have a garden.
It is so beneficial for one’s wellbeing as well as the planet and is a form of quiet rebellion in this capitalist society we live in.
Q: What are your backgrounds/interests?
My interests are wide and varied. I am very creative and my work is primarily as a photographer and artist.
I am interested in community, health, wellbeing and creativity.
I am interested in closing the class gap that seems to only be getting wider and wider. I am interested in affordable housing and universal basic income. I am interested in life being really good for all and not just a rich few.
Q: What is your favourite produce to share and why?
Favourite produce to share would be anything I have enough of because I have grown it and now get to share it with others
Q: Why do you love being part of the co-op?
I love the co-op because it reflects my values. It is an incredible place to shop knowing the care and connections that go into everything involved in running an ethical business.
Q: Why do you think it is important for people to share local produce and join their local co-op?
Connection first and foremost – to one another and to where your food is being grown and produced. Less food miles as most produce is sourced as locally as possible.
Supporting local growers.
For those interested in belonging to the Maple Street Co-op, it cost
$25 to buy a share and become an owner-member plus an $11 annual admin fee. More details available from www.maplestreet.coop
