Here's the chance to meet people who grow and make our food

NEVER has there been such an emphasis on the food we eat, in terms of where it was grown and how it was produced.

Chef Matt Golinski hosts a cooking masterclass. Picture: John McCutcheon

NEVER has there been such an emphasis on the food we eat, in terms of where it was grown and how it was produced.

Increasingly, chefs like Matt Golinski are sourcing produce directly from the farmgate and taking the time to really understand and appreciate where the food they are sourcing is coming from and how it is farmed.

And consumers no longer simply want to enjoy a meal, they also want to better understand the journey from paddock to plate and even gain an insight into the personal journey of the farmer or producer.

Making it easier for chefs, restaurateurs, cafes, food stores and retailers to view new products and talk to the producers, the Food and Agribusiness Network (FAN) will be holding their annual Meet the Makers event on March11.

The event will showcase 65 producers and food business from all over the Sunshine Coast, which will highlight the incredible diversity we have, in terms of local produce, that includes everything from coffee and chocolate to goat cheese and finger limes.

According to Emma Greenhatch, general manager of FAN: "The greater Sunshine Coast is one of Australia's fastest growing food regions with renowned international brands like Gourmet Garden, Buderim Ginger and COYO sitting alongside a plethora of artisan producers.

"Attendees at Meet the Makers will be able to sample everything from honey, macadamia nuts, chocolate, coffee, jams and preserves to gluten-free goodies, gnocchi, artisan cheeses and micro-brews."

The range of local produce we have at our doorstep is astounding, and FAN are doing everything they can to create opportunities to grow our region's food and agribusiness industry.

Meet the Maker is set to become an important annual event that will expand the footprint and profile of our food businesses in local, national and international markets.

To register to attend contact [e-mail]

Originally published as Here's the chance to meet people who grow and make our food