Dear FAN Members, Partners & Supporters, Connecting with many of our members over recent weeks, we’re hearing the fatigue and continuing to see how hard running a business is right now. In some cases it’s become too much, like Phat Belli Farm – we’re going to miss your beautiful eggs Paul. We understand that when times are

Photo credit: Sunshine Coast Foodie 2021 has been a defining year for FAN and many of our members, as we continued to respond to the challenges and new opportunities arising from the global pandemic. FIAL FundingFIAL’s funding ending on 30 June 2021 necessitated a review of FAN’s future direction and how we continue to deliver

As the year rapidly draws to a close – we’ve been reflecting on what a significant year it has been for FAN. Over the past 6 months we’ve rolled out our new operating model, appointing Membership Coordinators in Gympie, Noosa, Sunshine Coast and Moreton Bay to deliver more opportunities for our members, and strengthen relationships with our stakeholders

What a month to celebrate! To say that we are beyond proud of our Emma is an understatement. The #SCBWN2021 Outstanding Business Woman of the Year award was testament to Em’s passion, hardwork and dedication. Em is a true leader and visionary for our food and ag industry – and to us an amazing work colleague and dear and

As we roll-out FAN’s new operating model with a focus on deeper engagement in our regions, we’re seeing some exciting locally-driven activities starting to take shape.  This month our members, working with FAN Member Coordinators took part in a producer showcase and markets in Moreton Bay; regional direction planning session in Gympie; and discussions around a distillers’ working group

This month we started rolling out FAN’s new business model and we’re delighted to welcome our Membership Coordinators Jacki Hinchey (Moreton Bay), Tanya Arnold (Sunshine Coast) and Amy Watson (Gympie) who will closely with our members across our regions. FAN is and will always be industry-led and the appointment of our Membership Coordinators will enable us to better engage with our members

As the COVID situation rapidly evolves we encourage our wider community to support our local food and beverage businesses who will be affected by the snap lock down. Head to our @localfood pages for updates and information on member offers and changed trading conditions for businesses impacted by restrictions. Stay across the latest updates and information collated

May has been all about sharing insights and innovations as part of our special Queensland Small Business Month events – with thanks to the Department of Employment, Small Business and Training for their support. We look forward to connecting with our members at the upcoming monthly member meet ups and as we continue to shape

Our Member Meet Ups across our regions are our FAN ecosystem at its best – where our members host on their farms and in their manufacturing facilities, sharing their stories and knowledge to inspire and help others. Thanks to this month’s hosts – Adele and Scott Frew (Belli Beef), Nick and Brydie Holliday (Belvedere Farm) and Mick Dan

March was all about Meet the Makers and what an amazing turn out we had! 75 of our members showcasing their produce and products to over 500 buyers, industry, stakeholders, supporters and passionate foodies. It was our FAN ecosystem at its best – the vibe, the energy, the collaboration, the fun, the passion for what we do