OzHarvest has launched its first Reconciliation Action Plan this February 2026, a move set to change how food relief and education are delivered across Coffs Harbour, New South Wales. This national plan aims to build stronger ties with First Nations communities and ensure that local services are respectful of the Gumbaynggirr people, who are the traditional owners of the region. By formalising these commitments, the organisation intends to make sure its food aid and school programs are safe and helpful for all local residents.
The new direction will influence how the OzHarvest Coffs Harbour team operates, specifically affecting volunteer training and community outreach. By focusing on the cultural history of the Mid North Coast, where the Gumbaynggirr people are known as the sharing people, the charity hopes to create a more inclusive service. This includes working more closely with local Aboriginal-led groups to reach families who may need extra support.
Local schools are also expected to see changes through the FEAST food education program, which teaches students about healthy eating and sustainability. These lessons will now include more First Nations perspectives to better reflect the local community and the history of its people. According to OzHarvest, this milestone marks a major step in their journey to nourish the country while building respectful partnerships with traditional custodians.
Supported by regional leaders like New South Wales State Manager Richard Watson, the local chapter will use this new framework to review its current operations. The goal is to move beyond just delivering food and instead focus on building long-term relationships that empower the Coffs Harbour community. This shift is designed to ensure that the bounty of the region continues to be shared in a way that honours local heritage.
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