The Peak Industry Body representing Australia?s vegetable growers is reminding Australians not to give veggies the chop on Australia Day, with the community being urged to throw some locally grown vegetables onto their barbeques this Thursday.

“While self-proclaimed „Chop Star? Sam Kekovich has been promoting lamb as an essential part of Australian culture, we are reminding Aussies not to chop locally grown vegetables off the menu this Australia Day,” said AUSVEG spokesperson Hugh Gurney.
“Australia Day has long been associated with meat-laden barbeques and we urge people to complement this with fresh, in-season, Australian-grown vegetables,” said Mr Gurney.
AUSVEG is the National Peak Industry body representing around 9,000 of Australia?s vegetable and potato growers.
“Locally grown vegetables are produced to some of the highest standards of quality in the world and there is no better day than Australia Day to show support for the local industry and include some Aussie vegetables in your celebrations.”
“Vegetable industry research has consistently shown that vegetables like carrots, zucchini, capsicum, potatoes and pumpkin are amongst the most popular vegetables in the community,” said Mr Gurney.
“A nice piece of char-grilled capsicum, eggplant or zucchini adds some much needed colour to the barbeque grill and tastes great with a lamb chop or sausage in bread,” said Mr Gurney.
Australian-grown vegetables which are in-season at the moment include sweet corn, potatoes, capsicums and eggplant. Salad vegetables such as lettuce and cucumber are also currently in-season.
“The high standards of Australian grown vegetables should be seen as a source of national pride at barbeques around Australia this Thursday.”
“Australian vegetables do not only taste great but are also good for your health,” said Mr Gurney.
Industry research has highlighted the health benefits of a balanced diet, which includes plenty of fruit and vegetables.
Vegetables are rich in antioxidants and contain essential minerals and vitamins which are beneficial to the health of both the body and the brain.
“We are urging Aussies to be patriotic and support local vegetable producers on the date that celebrates all things Australian,” said Mr Gurney.

MEDIA CONTACT: Hugh Gurney, Communications Officer, AUSVEG
Phone: (03) 9822 0388, Mobile: 0410 047 432, Email: hugh.gurney@ausveg.com.au