CEQ, Foodbank Queensland unite to ensure food security in Far North Queensland

Joseph Guenzler Published March 8, 2024 at 5.30pm (AWST)

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CEQ Mabuiag kids receive supplies for the School Breakfast Program. (Image: supplied)

Community Enterprise Queensland (CEQ) and Foodbank Queensland (FBQ) have joined forces to address food insecurity in the Cape York Peninsula and Torres Strait.

The recently signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) highlights the mutual dedication of CEQ and FBQ to collaborate on enhancing food security and alleviating hunger in the Cape York Peninsula and Torres Strait.

The inaugural initiative under the MoU is the School Breakfast Program, which commenced in Term 1 this year, benefiting 14 remote schools in Far North Queensland.

CEQ Chief Executive Officer, Michael Dykes, said the collaboration between CEQ and FBQ marked a significant step towards creating sustainable solutions in the region, with a shared commitment to alleviate hunger and promote food security.

"The MoU is an exciting announcement and further reaffirms CEQ's aim to support healthier, more sustainable communities," he said.

"We are excited about the collaborative potential that this partnership brings, with the School Breakfast Program the first joint initiative with Foodbank Queensland, with many more to come.

"Through our 'Good Pasin' (give back) program, we cover the cost of freight from Cairns for the food provided by Foodbank Queensland, ensuring that nutritious breakfast products reach schools and communities throughout FNQ."

*Iama School CEQ Foodbank Brekky Club - in action 1. (Image: Supplied)*

Aligned with CEQ's Nutrition and Wellbeing Strategy 2023-2027, the program is a tangible demonstration of the board's commitment to supporting efforts that enhance nutrition and wellbeing within the communities it serves.

The MoU outlines key objectives focused on collaboration between CEQ and FBQ to tackle food insecurity in Far North Queensland.

This includes joint efforts to identify opportunities for collaboration and address food insecurity in the region.

Additionally, the agreement emphasises joint advocacy to recognise and address the nutritional needs of remote communities, aiming to ensure access to healthy and nutritious food.

Furthermore, the MoU highlights the commitment to promoting awareness of CEQ and FBQ's initiatives within the communities and reaching out to remote families.

*CEQ & Foodbank L - R Jess Watkinson, Chief Executive Officer, Foodbank Queensland, Mike Hill, Chair. (Image: Supplied)*

Foodbank Queensland CEO, Jess Watkinson, is excited to be working with CEQ to work towards addressing food insecurity in remote communities.

"Foodbank Queensland is honoured to join forces with CEQ in our shared commitment to address hunger and improve nutrition in Far North Queensland," she said.

"This strategic partnership allows us to leverage our strengths and resources to make a significant impact on the lives of children and young people, working towards a future where no one goes hungry.

"The positive impact of School Breakfast Programs on school attendance, and improved learning outcomes are well known, as well as promoting healthy eating habits to students."