After seeing up to 60 per cent of all fresh grown produce go to waste in Carnarvon's horticultural district, local plantation owner Jo Bumbak decided to take action. Working with local growers, Jo rescued fruit and vegetables deemed too unappealing for sale in supermarkets - using produce which would have otherwise been dumped and left to rot.
In 2017, Bumbak's Preserves and Ice Creams bought 36 tonnes of fresh mango, banana, tomato, chilli and capsicum and turned them into award-winning products for sale.
Recognising growing consumer concern about where food comes from, Jo has adapted her family's range of products and in the process won over 100 awards at the Perth Royal Agricultural Show while providing support for Carnarvon farmers.
"Our family has been in farming for 60 years and would love to remain viable long into the future," says Jo. "Through our business we are aiming to reduce waste, improve financial outcomes for industry and
create delicious products that contain nothing artificial and no preservatives for visitors to enjoy all year round," she said.
Jo's contribution goes far beyond delicious food, including positively promoting Carnarvon and its horticultural industry by using the store as an educational tool for locals and tourists to the region.
"It's my passion to ensure Carnarvon is a successful and thriving town where visitors experience all the unique and amazing things that make it a paradise place," said Jo.
Bumbak's created over 140 preserves, 12 ice cream varieties and six fruit leathers in 2018, using over 100 varieties of local produce, with more exciting innovations to come through products, processina and packaging in the future. Bumbak's is a must-do in Carnarvon for any visitors.
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