At Geelong Foodshare, we’re committed to ensuring that as much food as possible goes to people first. But when surplus produce is no longer suitable for human consumption, it doesn’t have to go to waste.
Through our partnership with local farmer Stan, this produce is given a second purpose as nutritious livestock feed. For Stan, the arrangement provides a reliable supplementary feed source that helps reduce farming costs while ensuring valuable food doesn’t end up in landfill.
For Geelong Foodshare, it’s a practical example of the circular economy in action—maximising the value of donated food, supporting local agriculture, and reducing our environmental impact.
“What Geelong Foodshare can’t use to feed people still has real value on the farm. It helps feed my livestock, reduces my feed costs and stops good produce from ending up in landfill. It’s a win for farmers, the environment and the whole community.”
— Stan, Local Farmer
By diverting more than 117 tonnes of organic material from landfill, this partnership is estimated to have prevented approximately 235 tonnes of CO₂-equivalent emissions. Beyond the environmental benefits, it strengthens the connection between the food relief sector and local agriculture, demonstrating how simple, practical partnerships can create positive environmental, economic and social outcomes for the entire community.
