Profitable and sustainable primary industries supporting vibrant regional communities

The Greater Western Sydney Economic Development Board is the voice of employment growth and economic development for Greater Western Sydney. Led by its Chairman Frank Gelonesi, the 11 members of the Board represent the business, government and community interests of 14 local government areas. Together they initiate and support a diverse range of projects designed to create employment, trade and investment opportunities for the region's 1.8 million people and 75,000 businesses. It is supported by the NSW Department of State and Regional Development, and works in partnership with government agencies, councils and other regional organisations with an interest in progressing employment growth and economic development within Greater Western Sydney.

GROW works with business, community and across the three sectors of government to take action that will help the growth of Sydney and its other region. There is a national network of 55 Area Consultative Committees that work with the business , community and governments.

Hawkesbury Harvest supports the HARtDAC project and thanks the supporting partners for thier vision and commitment to agriculture. Hawkesbury City Council have clearly identified the need for the retention of agriculture within the region, and as part of an ongoing process they have initiated the 'Hawkesbury Agricultural Retention through Diversification and Clustering' (HARtDaC) project; the first of its kind in the region. This project will consider, in some detail, agricultural opportunities in the region that can assist in the retention of agriculture, by investigating opportunities for diversification of farming, and opportunities to enhance agricultural activity through farming networks. In the first instance, the project will consider crop suitability based on the survey and analysis of critical biophysical factors. However, it will also consider these biophysical opportunities in the light of socio-economic factors, such as infrastructure, market accessibility and access to skills and knowledge.

Hawkesbury City Council, inital sponsors of the Hawkesbury Harvest project are very proud to support Hawkesbury Harvest and its goals for the Region.

Hawkesbury Regional Tourism are great supporters and valued stakeholders in Hawkesbury Harvest. The magnificent Hawkesbury Region is approximately one hours drive north west of Sydney City. The Region covers the country atmosphere at the historic town of Windsor, Richmond and St Albans, and the quaint rural settlements of Kurrajong, Bilpin, Lower Portland, Ebenezer, Pitt-Town, Colo & Wiseman's Ferry, through to Brooklyn at the Hawkesbury River Gateway make up this picturesque area. Visit the numerous antique and craft stalls or spend time talking with a local artist at one of the boutique galleries. Enjoy a leisurely boat cruise on the Hawkesbury River from historic Windsor. Abundant in history, the early colonial towns of Windsor, Richmond & St Albans are a must to visit. Why not enjoy a walk in the Steps of the Masters on the Artist's or take the Farmgate Trail for a fresh food and wine experience.

Hills Shire Council are proud to support Hawkesbury Harvest and its goals for the Region.

Hornsby City Council are proud to support Hawkesbury Harvest and its goals for the Region.

The NSW Department of State and Regional Development is proud to support Hawkesbury Harvest. The Department is dedicated to expanding the economic capacity of the State's regions and encourages communities to strengthen their viability as business locations through local partnerships with councils and business organisations. The Department cooperates with regional groups in order to build regional business and investment through market initiatives such as Hawkesbury Harvest.

Penrith City Council is proud to support Hawkesbury Harvest and its goals for the Region. Penrith Valley, with its river, mountains and lakes can be the perfect place to pick up your gourmet farm produce and boutique wines. Enjoy a visit to the area and taste the delicacies that the region has to offer. While you travel the farm gate trail through Penrith Valley take a moment to experience the world class entertainment, fabulous outdoor recreation and cultural facilities that Penrith Valley has to offer. Penrith Valley is also home to numerous craft and fresh produce markets. The Penrith Valley Visitor Information Centre can provide you with more information on these, for a full listing call 1300 736 836. With its gourmet food and wine, dining, markets and entertainment there is so much to see and do in Penrith Valley that one day might not be enough time to fit it all in! Penrith City Council also manage the Visitor information centre website. This website is packed with useful information on the Penrith and Hawkesbury Region. Visit the website on www.penrithvalley.com.au for more information.

The University is a proud supporter of Hawkesbury Harvest and students and staff are actively involved in its development.