Community spirit helps feed Rushworth
In the small town of Rushworth in northern Victoria, a group of locals are determined to make a difference for those doing it tough. When our Stanhope team heard about the great work they were doing, they were keen to get involved.
Led by Rushworth Community House and supported by the Campaspe Shire, the Rushworth Foodbank was established by a group of locals following the snap lockdowns last year which caused hardship for many locals.
Rushworth Foodbank serves more than 2,500 people at the south end of the Shire, including Colbinabbin, Toolleen, and Stanhope.
Rushworth Community House President, Gail Corner, says that the locals were determined to make this a sustainable service for the community.
“We put our heads together and came up with a plan to re-establish an Op-Shop in the town then use the funds from this to run the Foodbank.
“So far, it’s been overwhelmingly successful thanks to the generosity of the people of Rushworth in donating their unwanted goods for sale.
“Fonterra has also been incredibly supportive, not only donating $2,500 towards the overall running costs, but gifting us two freezers and several medical kits,” says Gail.
Our Regional Operations Manager for northern Victoria, Steve Taylor, says that working with Foodbank is not something that is new to Fonterra, in fact it’s been partners with Foodbank Australia for over 14 years.
“In Victoria, we’re the fresh milk supplier for Foodbank’s National Milk Program, last year donating 100,000 litres of milk as well as other dairy foods.
“Organisations like these have a huge impact on people's lives, and we were excited to be involved in one in our region.
“What I love about this initiative is that the whole community is coming together to help each other – it’s what we like to call Doing Good Together.
“We’re proud to play a small part in the great work that they are doing, and really just helping them, help others,” says Steve.
So, what can you do to support the Rushworth Foodbank? Next time you’re in Rushworth, call into the local Op-Shop – you’re bound to find a treasure or two – your spending will go to a good cause.