In true Aussie spirit, kindness has been spread from the bush to the city as donated meat, fruit and vegetables were made into hearty meals for Cumberland residents in need.
Mid North Coast beef farmer Robert Mackenzie from Mackas Beef donated 300kg of angus beef mince, while Hilltop Fruit Market at Coleman Street, Merrylands, LJ Hooker Granville & Guildford, Cumberland City Councillor Joseph Rahme and two anonymous donors provided 300 boxes of fruit and vegetables.
The food hampers comprised delicious shepherd’s pies and lasagnes made by a professional chef from the donated goods, as well as fresh fruit, vegetables and meat.
This was packaged and delivered by Defence Force personnel to households in need who have been identified by police, local charities and Cumberland City Council.
Cr Rahme, who led the project, said the joint initiative showed all parts of the Australian community coming together.
“I’m very proud to see our local businesses, government, defence and the community coming together with our country cousins to provide for households in need,” he said.
“When I started to spread the word, many local businesses were keen to jump on board.”
Cr Rahme also gained the support of Trims Fresh Merrylands, Woolworths Merrylands and Bidfood Sydney, which all donated produce and Confoil Australia which donated trays and packaging
Meat and Livestock Australia’s Sam Burke and resident Belinda Barakat were also instrumental in the initiative, as well as generous contributions from Bakers Delight Merrylands and local worker Cameron Simpson.
Mr Mackenzie, from Salt Ash, north of Newcastle, said it was his opportunity to support the city that supported the bush.
“The city always digs deep in times of flood, drought and bushfire for farmers and regional communities and this is an opportunity for us to give to the city during their time of need,” he said.
Mayor Steve Christou said families in the area had been doing it tough, so the donation was welcomed.
Troy Dodds is Parra News' Managing Editor and Breaking News Reporter. He has more than 20 years experience as a journalist, working with some of Australia’s leading media organisations. In 2023, he was named Editor of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.