Andre and Alun have a vision of being self-sufficient in meeting their food needs. With their children, Rhys and Sian, they live on a 22 acre property at Kobble Creek, just north-west of Brisbane. The quality of the soil is not great. One crucial component of their vision is to build soil fertility, because everything else depends upon it. Nonetheless, building up the soil can be back breaking work. With this in mind, they have cleverly set up a system of chicken tractors which are being moved about their property to produce tasty eggs and to enhance soil fertility. It is a case of letting the chickens do what comes naturally! In addition, there is the bonus of supplying Food Connect subscribers with eggs.

Andre says that she found Food Connect attractive right from the start because of its emphasis upon fresh, local food. She believes it is particularly important that small farmers remain in business as these people have the knowledge base required to feed us. It seems that Andre’s vision in relation to their property also extends to the wider community.

When the boxes arrive on a Tuesday, at this time of year, Andre casts an eager eye into her box to see whether there is a pomelo in the offering. She loves them. Her children are also keen to get into the boxes, except their interest is in the sweet mandarins and other goodies. As Andre explained, “It’s a bit like Christmas every week”.

While the Phillips gradually improve their soil, plant fruit trees and work towards their vision, their weekly boxes of produce provide them with sustenance. Furthermore, their City Cousin role affords connections with like minded people.