Mackay choosing regionally-grown fruit and vegies

Residents opting for locally-grown produce softens blow of COVID-19 for Mackay-owned business

Vegies Unlimited owner Stephen Schmidt with lettuces grown in Grasstree Beach. Behind him are capsicum grown in Gumlu, turmeric from Calen, ginger from Proserpine, and chilis grown in Townsville. Picture: Heidi Petith

MORE people choosing locally grown and in-season produce during the coronavirus pandemic softened the blow of COVID-19 for Mackay-owned Vegies Unlimited.

Having owned and managed the store for more than 25 years, Stephen Schmidt said they had worked hard to establish relationships with Mackay Whitsunday region growers.

"We were very fortunate with our supply chain while the big supermarkets struggled," Mr Schmidt said.

The store stocks dozens of regional lines including Tahitian and finger limes, orange candy melons, garlic, kang kong and fresh herbs.

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Mr Schmidt said regional produce coming into season now included varieties of pumpkin, eggplant, watermelon, honeydew and rockmelon grown in the Bowen to Burdekin region - nicknamed the "winter salad bowl".

He credits the uptake of home deliveries during the pandemic with having kept the business going, particularly when regular orders from clubs and restaurants ceased because of COVID-19 restrictions.

As part of the delivery service, customers could also buy pre-prepared produce such as diced vegetables and ready-to-go stir-fry packs, and have them delivered to their workplace.

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"We also saw a major increase of customers through the doors," Mr Schmidt said.

"People have become a lot more astute with their purchases and are pushing for more local produce."

To place an order, head to www.vegiesunlimited.com.au

Orders over $55 qualify for free next-day delivery.

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