By Peter Douglas
YARRA Ranges residents can now more easily buy locally grown seasonal produce.
Simply through downloading Inspiro’s first venture into social media, the Buy Local Eat Seasonal in the Yarra Ranges app.
The not-for-profit community health organisation on Thursday, 15 October, launched the digital version of its highly popular seasonal brochure, which was first introduced in 2013.
The app allows users to have all the information they need, including a map and a seasonal list of the freshest produce available and where to buy it from, all within the Yarra Ranges.
To mark the occasion, local fruit growers, members of Inspiro and Yarra Ranges Shire met at Raynes Orchard in Woori Yallock.
Inspiro board member, Linda Hancock, told the gathering the seasonal aspect to the app is what I’m most excited about.
“As a local, I know where to find a few things, but the app lets me know what’s in season and where I can make the most of it,” she said.
“We’re a nation that’s getting larger, so we should all eat more fruit and vegetables.”
Grower, Len Raynes, said their orchard has about 450 varieties of fruit, so it’s good to know when to grab them in season.
“Most of our customers come from overseas, so we want to see more locals come on board,” he said.
Together, the app and brochure bring together Yarra Ranges’ U Picks, Farm Gates and a list of what is in season.
Locally grown fruit and vegetables are not only fresh and healthy, but involve significantly less transportation which can lead to reduced packaging and costs.
Buying local produce also helps to support local business and growers.
To download the app, visit Google Play or the Apple Store.
