LETTER: Coles back profits before people

DEAR News Of The Area,

MY husband is a third-generation banana farmer and we live and farm in Bonville.

We are lifelong Coffs locals. My grandfather grew bananas, back in the day, right next door to our farm.

I also serve as the Public Officer for the Coffs Harbour and District Banana Growers Association, and I know the people behind the fruit and the dedication of their families who work hard to grow our food.

These farmers work in rain, heat and everything in between. Many are third- or fourth-generation farmers. They love their land, their crops and their community.

Coles’ decision to walk away from local banana, cucumber and pumpkin growers is more than disappointing. It feels like a kick in the guts to all of the Coffs Coast region.

Our grandsons are just three and four. They already love working on the family banana farm with their dad and Pop. They are little farmers. But will there still be a farm for them to inherit?

Their dad recently planted two acres of bananas to supply Coles, and, like the other 30+ local farmers impacted, will have to find alternatives.

Now, bananas sold in the five local (Mid North Coast) Coles stores will travel more than 2,000 kilometres to reach buyers — here in the home of the Big Banana.

Why would we choose to transport food thousands of kilometres when local families are already growing a top-quality product?

More than 17,000 people have signed our petition in just four weeks.

This is the voice of Coffs Harbour, and it’s getting LOUDER!

Thank you to the community who are standing behind the farmers. Your support means the world to them.

We aren’t giving up, we are just getting started. Watch this space.

Regards,

Leanne (Lee) Gentle,

Bonville.