From the Moreland Leader, 21 July 2010
THE appearance of an exotic apple aroused the curiosity of the new Fawkner-based food swap group this month.
The group meets monthly to swap home-grown produce including fruit and vegetables, eggs and jams, at CB Smith Reserve in Jukes Rd.
Launched in June, Fawkner Community House’s Sustainable Fawkner project is designed to encourage local response to climate change and build connections between local gardeners.
Manager Meredith Lawrence said about 15 people braved rain and wind to share the community spirit at this month’s swap on July 12.
“Everyone put everything on the table, and people stood around chatting and having cups of tea,” Ms Lawrence said of the convivial atmosphere at the swaps.
“There was quite a big variety of produce: there was grapefruit, lemons, cabbage, broccoli, eggs, silverbeet. I was a bit surprised by some of the things, like the yacon (a Peruvian ground apple favoured by permaculturists).
“It looked a bit like a horseradish, or a dark thin carrot. Other than the woman who brought them. no-one had ever seen it before, people were asking lots of questions.”
The group meets every second Saturday. New members welcome. Details: 9357 4631.
Sustainable Fawkner 