Showcasing more than 850 exhibitors and 120 speakers, Fine Food Australia is gearing up for one of its biggest shows in its 39-year history. With demand for First Nations food products currently at a high, top Indigenous businesses and learned experts will be one major draw at this year’s event.
According to the latest market research from the University of Sydney, the First Nations food sector was worth $81.5 million in 2019-2020 and is forecast to rapidly grow, potentially doubling by 2025.
Fine Food Australia Event Manager, Andrew Lawson, said the event was proud to support an important part of the industry.
“The level of innovation and passion in this area is incredible. We have fantastic native ingredients and products in Australia and demand is strong.
“We’re thrilled to showcase successful businesses and speakers in the space at one of our biggest shows ever including Austrade’s First Nations stand. Last year Austrade’s Agribusiness stand attracted quality visitors, bringing tremendous value to the event through highlighting export capabilities to international buyers. We anticipate the same level of interest this year,” said Lawson.
Leading voices will present the From rivermint to Kakadu plum – do you know the source presentation on The Source Kitchen stage to discuss authentic supply channels and endeavours.
Speaker Clarence Slocklee, ABC Gardening Australia presenter and from horticulture company, Jiway, said it was important for businesses to understand where and how produce is grown for transparency.
“In the case of bushfoods, we need to ask is there a benefit to Aboriginal communities. We also need to understand whether harvesting is impacting plant communities and eco systems,” said Slocklee.
Ongoing supporting of First Nations businesses, many of which give back to the community, is vital according to fellow speaker Domenic Smith of Pundi Produce. The company, which stocks native teas, is about to launch a range of non-alcoholic native bitters in flavours of wood, leaves and fruit.
“We’re passionate about improving community and environmental well-being through practices at our aquaponic farm. We want to build on cultural knowledge and support the land whilst celebrating the food’s cultural heritage and making a difference for Indigenous youth,” said Smith.
Key exhibitors include Creative Native, supplier of native food produce and value-added products which supports Indigenous growers and communities; shellfish aquaculture company Yumbah, whose philosophy is inspired by traditional Indigenous practices; and The Unexpected Guest founded by Jenny Khan, providers of museli and snack bars infused with indigenous ingredients.
This year government international trade promotion and investment attraction agency, Austrade, will feature unique flavours of First Nations producers at its stand. The Austrade showcase will include Indigiearth, Kakadu Organics, Northern Australia Aboriginal Kakadu Plum Alliance and Jala Jala Treats.
Austrade assistant GM for trade, David Lawson said Fine Food Australia was a an opportunity for exporters to connect with international customers.
“First Nations food producers add unique flavours and traditions to Australia’s reputation for safe, sustainable, premium food and beverages,” said Lawson.
