Farming it Forward is looking for interested young locals to help grow the initiative

North West Disability Services, in partnership with Landcare Australia, will be utilising a bit of land at Western Sydney University Hawkesbury on Saturday, August 22 to launch the initiative.

Farming it Forward began in the Blue Mountains. It's website says the initiative is an "urban farming social enterprise model connecting landowners and local young people who are passionate about growing food. The project develops skills and creates training and job opportunities, while tackling social isolation and giving meaning to life, issues for young and old, isolated and less mobile people".

Eric Brocken, a volunteer with North West Disability Services, said that the model they are bringing to the Hawkesbury sees a return for landowners.

"In exchange for using their land, they will receive weekly fresh food grown on their properties," he said.

"They will have the opportunity to connect with a community of young workers and see the produce that is grown on their land be supplied to local cafes and markets.

Mr Brocken said that the benefits for the young growers is endless.

"They also have the opportunity to be a part of the community and to learn about farming and potentially follow it through as a career path," he said.

"We encourage people to come along to network and to connect with others interested in enterprising farming.

"This is sustainable agriculture that will provide confidence and skills to our young growers."

Mr Brocken believes that the launch at WSU Hawkesbury will provide plenty of opportunities for everyone involved.

"Students have mainly been targeted throughout various departments of the university and there is plenty of opportunity for them to learn," he said.

"They will be able to meet people who they can go into farming and business with. They have the ability to connect and create their own business opportunities.

"There is also a potential for investment. Farmers markets who use the Secret Garden will be a great place for the growers to sell from."

Farming it Forward in the Hawkesbury will launch on Saturday, August 22 at WSU Hawkesbury from 9:30am. It is a free event but you must register here.

For more information about the initiative contact Eric Brocken at 0438731712.