Put Victoria on your table this Christmas

• Best gift for our farmers is to buy Victorian produce this Christmas
• Fine wines, craft beers, cheeses and small goods perfect for hampers
• Victoria’s high quality food and fibre is appreciated around the globe

With Christmas fast approaching, consumers are being urged to support Victorian food producers by buying Victorian food, wine and gifts this festive season.

Minister for Agriculture and Food Security Peter Walsh said shoppers could give back to Victorian farmers this Christmas simply by choosing Victorian produce.

“Victorian farmers are global leaders in producing fresh, healthy, high quality food products year-
round,” Mr Walsh said.

“Christmas is the perfect time to reflect on and celebrate the efforts of Victoria’s farmers by sitting down to a Christmas lunch or dinner that features produce grown in our own backyard.

“Whether you are doing traditional turkey with trimmings, firing up the barbecue, packing a picnic basket, making a gift hamper or just looking for a last-minute stocking stuffer, our farmers and food manufactures have you covered with world-class produce.

“Victoria’s fine wine, craft beer, award-winning cheeses, small goods and meat, and fresh fruit and vegetables are beyond compare, and they are appreciated around the globe.

“Buying local produce is an easy way to show your support for Victoria’s farmers this festive season, and it is also a great way to feed your family and friends healthy, high quality food.

“And don’t forget Santa – be sure to leave out a glass of fresh Victorian milk on Christmas Eve.” In 2012-13, Victoria accounted for 29 per cent of Australia’s total food and fibre exports and was again Australia’s largest agricultural exporter.

In total, food and fibre exports were valued at $9.4 billion, which was an increase of $428 million or five per cent from 2011-12.