VICTORIAN Farmers' Markets Association (VFMA) members have elected a new committee of management at their recent annual general meeting.
The organisation represents 500 farmers, artisan food producers and market members selling direct to the public through more than 30 accredited VFMA markets across the state – including Euroa, Nagambie, and more towns across regional and metro Victoria.
New president Charith Senanayake leads a team including walnut, stonefruit, beef, pork and egg farmers as well as metro and regional market managers.
Mr Senanyake's business produces Sri Lankan–inspired, zero–waste meals made in Melbourne using fresh, Victorian ingredients.
He has led numerous not–for–profit organisations both internationally and in Australia over the past 20 years.
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He was CEO of Rainforest Rescue International, saving rainforest remnants in Sri Lanka and founder and managing director of the Rainforest Project, Melbourne, focusing on conservation and land buy–backs in the Daintree, Indonesia and Ecuador.
"For many organisations, recent years have not been easy, including for farmers' markets," Mr Senanayake said.
"The outgoing committee had its hands full.
"Advocating to keep accredited markets operating ensured that our needs as small–scale food producers and farmer VFMA members were effectively heard by decision makers.
"VFMA members were able to continue serving customers despite the pressures of lockdowns, travel restrictions and public health measures.
"With COVID Safe measures in place, our markets remained the important community hubs they're known as."
The VFMA has recently undertaken a comprehensive membership consultation to develop its new strategy.
"The outgoing committee has delivered a clear direction and goals for the association's future," Mr Senanayke.
"As a new committee, we're rolling our sleeves up to get this implemented through 2023."
