Council establishes Mount Alexander Food Relief Network

Published on 09 July 2025

Mount Alexander Shire Council has established a Food Relief Network to unite local organisations in addressing food relief needs, gaps and opportunities.

The network aims to gather evidence, foster cross-sector understanding, advocate for change, and improve coordination and resource sharing.

Coordinated by Council under the Growing Abundance project, in partnership with Castlemaine Community House and Castlemaine Safe Space, the network includes members such as Maldon Community Pantry, Uniting Church Maldon, Salvation Army, Harcourt Valley Community Centre, and Church of Christ Castlemaine.

Together, these partners support people right across the shire who need a bit of extra help.

“Access to quality food is central to a healthy life,” said Alanna Cooper, Council’s Manager Community Partnerships.

“The great news in Mount Alexander Shire is that thanks to organisations like the Salvation Army and Bendigo Food Share, there is food available.

“The Mount Alexander Shire Food Relief Network wants to make sure that the distribution of this food is coordinated to make sure that everyone has access to what they need.”

Moving forward the network will be looking at increasing the days and times that food relief is available, increasing the options for diverse dietary needs, and looking at ways to be accessible and supportive of diverse community members.

The network will also be looking at increasing access to sought-after items including toilet paper and nappies for babies. 

The network also promotes the work of the Regional Community Vet Clinic, which provide a weekly pet food and accessories pantry from their new premises.

For more information on the Mount Alexander Shire Food Relief Network please contact Jo McMahon, Community Partnerships Project Officer, at 5471 1700.