The Noosa Biosphere Reserve Foundation hosted its annual Noosa Biosphere Gala & Awards 2022 on Tuesday 1 November at Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas, celebrating the International Day for Biosphere Reserves (3 Nov).
Noosa was designated a UNESCO biosphere reserve in 2007, one of 738 sites in 134 countries as part of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves.
Themed ‘Grow for Noosa’, the Gala event raised awareness and support for a sustainable food and agriculture economy in the Noosa Shire.
An industry panel facilitated by ABC Sunshine Coast rural reporter, Jennifer Nichols shared insights into the value of collaboration and regenerative farming for a strong food future.
Food & Agribusiness Network CEO, Emma Greenhatch, Kandanga Farm Store owner and regenerative farmer, Tim Scott, Pyrocal Managing Director, Durell Hammond who spoke on waste to carbon opportunities, and regional food champion and celebrity chef, Matt Golinski shared his insights into current challenges and opportunities on local food supply.
Around 150 guests enjoyed an all-local seasonal menu designed by View Restaurant Executive Chef Matt Golinski featuring Nguni beef and oyster mushrooms from Eastwell Farms, Green Valley Fingerlimes, Davidson plum from Galeru Farm, handpicked fresh herbs and garnishes by Matt and locally grown arrowroot crisps.
NBRF Chair, Fiona Berkin said the success of this years’ Grow for Noosa Gala & Noosa Biosphere Awards is testament to much hard work by many.
“The day was a resounding success – and it was such fun! Our aim is for the entire Noosa Shire community to understand what a biosphere reserve is and how to enhance it. The event was a great example of this. Thank you to those who chose to celebrate our Noosa Biosphere, instead of the Cup!” said Ms Berkin.
Noosa Biosphere Awards 2022 Winners were also announced, recognising those leading the way in sustainability excellence in the Noosa Shire.
- Land Category (sponsored by Noosa Biosphere Reserve Foundation) – Rosecliffe Boutique Farm Cottages
- Water Category (sponsored by UniSC) – NICA Waterwatch Team
- Wildlife Category (sponsored by Tourism Noosa) – Meghan Halverson
- People & Economy Category (sponsored by Community Bank Tewantin-Noosa) – Plastic Free Noosa
- Young Eco Leader Category (sponsored by Tewantin-Noosa Lions Club) – Jarrah Small and Spencer Hitchen
Guests were also treated to an eco-inspired fashion show, featuring Sunshine Coast TAFE students repurposed fashions, and bold creative garments by former Sunshine Beach State High student now Avante Garde designer Teddy McRitchie Design.
The Noosa Biosphere Reserve Foundation launched its Grow for Noosa Fund at the event, to raise seed-funding for new initiatives to support a strong food future in the region. To learn more, visit www.noosabiosphere.org.au/grow.
