More than 100 farmers, producers, business owners, researchers and community members came together at the Southern Highlands Future Forum 2026 to explore what a more resilient, regenerative local food system could look like. Wingecarribee Shire Council hosted the Forum in partnership with WinZero and Regen Action.
Talks ranged from healthy soils and landscape rehydration to the “food paradox”: food that’s too cheap for farmers to grow profitably, yet too expensive for many households.
“There is no cavalry that’s going to come and save us. You are the horses,” said Phil Lavers of Moonacres Farm.
The good news is that the momentum is already here. A regional WhatsApp group now connects 88 local farmers and landholders.
A big thank you to all our talented local presenters for sharing their knowledge and passion. Special thanks to Morwenna Zabaks from Wingecarribee Shire Council’s Sustainability Team, Kirstine McKay from Regen Action, and John Swainston for the photos.
Missed it? Watch the talks below, then share them with a neighbour who cares about local food.
Morning presentations
David Savill, Your Farmer: the soil food web and nutrient density
Southern Highlands Future Forum 2026 – David SavillFarmers and landholders: join the soil research. David Savill is running a new Southern Highlands research project on the links between farming practices, soil biology and nutrient density. If you’d like to take part, complete the form.
Erin Healy, Mulloon Institute: landscape rehydration and climate resilience
Southern Highlands Future Forum 2026 – Erin HealySuzannah Cowley, Nviro Media: the power of farmer-to-farmer learning
Southern Highlands Future Forum 2026 – Suzannah CowleyPhil Lavers, Moonacres Farm: the food paradox
Southern Highlands Future Forum 2026 – Phil LaversJeff Aston, Tractorless Vineyard: practical lessons from regenerative farming
Southern Highlands Future Forum 2026 – Jeff Aston, session 1Afternoon presentations
Reece Proudfoot, Regen Labs: building a stronger regional food economy
Southern Highlands Future Forum 2026 – Reece ProudfootEilish Maloney, The What If Society: what each of us can do
Southern Highlands Future Forum 2026 – Eilish MaloneyJeff Aston, Tractorless Vineyard: consumer awareness and local food systems
Southern Highlands Future Forum 2026 – Jeff Aston, session 2Jill Cockram, Moss Vale Community Garden: growing food at home
Southern Highlands Future Forum 2026 – Jill CockramMore from the Forum
As well as the topics in Council’s article (a must read), people shared some useful local resources and opportunities:
- Crop Swap Robertson: held at the CTC in Robertson, which also hosts seed swaps and community events throughout the year.
- Heart Crops app: this produce-sharing platform connects backyard growers across the region. Sign up and help it thrive.
Weekday markets
Railway Street Fresh Food & Produce Market
Every Thursday, 3.00–5.30 pm · Railway Street, Moss Vale
A community-run micro market selling locally grown, regenerative produce straight from the growers: seasonal fruit and veg, eggs, sourdough, honey, preserves and more. Bring your bags.
Co-op Growers Market
Every Thursday, 2.30–6.00 pm · 85 Kirkham Road, Bowral
Local growers, producers and hobby farmers bring seasonal fruit and veg, farm-fresh meat and eggs, plants and flowers, honey, preserves, cheese and ready-made meals. A great excuse to catch up with friends and stock up for the week.
Coming up
Is Your Tank Water Safe to Drink? Thursday 26 November, 6.00–7.30 pm, Mittagong RSL. Water scientist Dr Ian Wright from Western Sydney University will reveal the results of recent tank water testing across the Southern Highlands. Book free on Humanitix.