REDGATE Farm Seaham operates on a guiding premise: good food should be for everyone.
That ethos is leading its stewards to explore the idea of creating an acre of free, welcoming space for the wider community and especially for those in need.
First posted on the farm’s Facebook page, the proposal has received an overwhelmingly positive response.
“I want Redgate Farm to feel like it belongs to the wider community,” said the farm’s director, Camille Scott.
“I genuinely believe that if you are in a position to help people, you should.”
A registered nurse, wildlife and foster carer that has worked in many challenging environments, Ms Scott unexpectedly found herself running her father’s farm, and is determined to use her own experiences to shape the business’s future.
“Becoming a farmer and running a seventh-generation property and abattoir before the age of 30 was never something I expected would happen so soon,” she said.
“I thought I would have much longer to learn from Dad before stepping into this role myself.
“Rather than walk away from it, I’ve tried to make the most of it and build something meaningful from it.”
As a single mum, Ms Scott has learned first-hand just how crucial community gardens are for connection, wellbeing, and most importantly food security.
“Good food should be for everyone, not just one sector of society or people who can afford premium products,” she said.
Redgate Farm Seaham has begun connecting with charities, women’s refuges and organisations, providing meals and support, with the eventual goal of being able to organise free community lunches, cooking classes and educational experiences.
Ms Scott runs the farm alongside her sisters, Bridie and Alexis. She’s a believer in the importance of showcasing female perspectives in an industry that has been traditionally male dominated.
“Women in agriculture are incredibly important, and I think there are many women quietly carrying enormous workloads across farms and rural communities that often go unseen,” Ms Scott said.
Ms Scott acknowledges that the creation of a free community garden is a hefty goal.
Redgate Farm believes it will get there, one step at a time, and is eager to hear from community members and organisations that share the same vision.
By Nico LOMBARDO
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