Noosa Biosphere Awards Gala 2022

The Noosa Biosphere Gala was held at Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas, to coincide with International Day for Biosphere Reserves.

Noosa was designated a UNESCO biosphere reserve in 2007. It’s one of 738 sites in 134 countries, as part of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves.

Themed ‘Grow for Noosa’, the gala event raised awareness and support for a sustainable food and agriculture economy in the Noosa Shire.

An industry panel facilitated by ABC Sunshine Coast rural reporter, Jennifer Nichols shared insights into the value of collaboration and regenerative farming for a strong food future.

Food & Agribusiness Network CEO, Emma Greenhatch, Kandanga Farm Store owner and regenerative farmer, Tim Scott and Pyrocal Managing Director, Durell Hammond spoke about waste to carbon opportunities.

Regional food champion and celebrity chef, Matt Golinski shared his insights into current challenges and opportunities on local food supply, and designed an all-local seasonal menu to about 150 guests.

It featured Nguni beef and oyster mushrooms from Eastwell Farms, Green Valley Fingerlimes, Davidson plum from Galeru Farm, handpicked fresh herbs and garnishes by Matt and locally grown arrowroot crisps.

Winners were also announced recognising those leading the way in sustainability excellence in the Noosa Shire.

• Land Category – Rosecliffe Boutique Farm Cottages.
• Water Category – NICA Waterwatch Team.
• Wildlife Category – Meghan Halverson.
• People & Economy Category – Plastic Free Noosa.
• Young Eco Leader Category – Jarrah Small and Spencer Hitchen.

Guests were also treated to an eco-inspired fashion show, featuring Sunshine Coast TAFE students repurposed fashions, and bold creative garments by former Sunshine Beach State High student now Avante Garde designer Teddy McRitchie Design.

The Noosa Biosphere Reserve Foundation launched its Grow for Noosa Fund at the event, to raise seed-funding for new initiatives to support a strong food future in the region.