Harcourt Organic Farming Co-op

How we support diversity and inclusivity

—

by

Harcourt Farming Co-op
in ,

By Ira Barker, Murnong Mummas

Diversity at Harcourt Organic Farming Co-op goes beyond what’s cultivated from the land—it also encompasses the people who work and contribute to it, as well as truly valuing the countless generations of Djaara people who have been custodians of this place for time immemorial. This commitment to inclusivity is central to HOFC’s identity, and something we are working hard at developing further.

Inclusivity here is grounded in collaboration, respect, and shared responsibility. Each member brings unique insights and experiences, and these are valued as integral to the decisions we make together.

As a co-op member, I personally feel valued for my distinct perspective, knowing I can openly share my past and present experiences, whether as a First Nations person or someone from a Gender-Diverse background. My way of thinking and being in the world is respected—and it’s this foundation of respect that makes fostering collaboration and shared responsibility possible. Without truly feeling welcomed here, I wouldn’t be able to do the work that I do effectively.

“Our farm is a model for inclusive ownership, where people from diverse backgrounds can participate in meaningful ways to shape the land and its future.”

A group of people sit on picnic rugs beside a dam in the paddock

Members and families enjoy the dam at the HOFC 2021 Christmas Party

The co-op takes a community-centered approach, creating opportunities for not only those working the land but also for the broader community to connect with, learn from, and appreciate it. Each enterprise brings people together in unique ways. Whether it’s the delight of supporting and enjoying the milk from Sellar Farmhouse Creamery through a CSA subscription, gathering to learn with community (and cake!) with The Orchard Keepers’ Fruit Crew program, or learning to cultivate Bushfoods with Murnong Mummas on the Bushfoods tours, each initiative fosters connection. This engagement helps the wider community understand our work and the passion that drives it—making our efforts deeply meaningful. Growing here is about more than produce; it’s about inviting others to walk with us, to learn, share, and appreciate this land together.

“We work together on building relationships with the community, and that includes not just farmers, but everyone who interacts with the land.”

Four people sit around a table with lunch food on it
Co-op members enjoying community lunch together

Inclusivity is central to how we operate. We make decisions collectively, ensuring that everyone’s voice is represented.

“Being here is about sharing power and responsibility, ensuring that everyone’s voice is heard in shaping the future of the land.”

At HOFC, each member’s voice is valued, with our collaborative model fostering a true sense of belonging and purpose. By committing to inclusivity, we create an environment where every perspective shapes our work, ensuring that the diverse needs of both the land and our community are respected.

“The co-op fosters a sense of belonging and purpose. Everyone is encouraged to contribute, and you feel like your input genuinely shapes the direction of the farm.”

“We acknowledge that we live and farm on Djaara country… we are grateful to Djaara for their leadership and commitment to working towards Djaara management of Leanganook”

We hope that by sharing our journey of connecting with Djaara, we can inspire other landowners and farmers to take a similar path. By listening to and respecting Djaara’s values and aspirations for Country, we aim to weave these into our vision for the land HOFC is on. Walking together with First Nations Peoples to care for the land is essential to us, as it brings mutual benefit.

We are committed to reconciliation and to continually educating ourselves about First Nations cultures and challenges, so we can serve this land and honor those who have cared for it for countless generations.

“It’s not just about farming but about how we interact with the community and the land in a way that benefits everyone involved.”

The co-op emphasises the importance of diverse voices—whether through the active involvement of First Nations enterprises like Murnong Mummas, relationship building with communities like Djaara, or through collaborative land ownership and farming practices. Inclusivity is not only about representation but about shaping decisions collectively, ensuring everyone in the community, including those interacting with the land, contributes to its future direction and sustainability.

All quotes within this post have been taken from the following reports, plans and papers: