Randwick Resident Champions Fresh Food Revolution for Local Families
After overcoming a debilitating battle with chronic fatigue through improved nutrition, Rob Derbyshire, a passionate nutrition lecturer and local gym owner for the past 14 years, is now transforming the way Randwick residents access fresh produce through his involvement with Box Divvy. This grassroots initiative, like a modern food co-op, lets community members order fresh, local produce and pantry staples online without fees or contracts, offering a seamless and approximately 30% cheaper alternative to supermarkets.
"I learned the hard way that nutrition is paramount. My recovery was a wake-up call, and now I'm dedicated to spreading the importance of quality food. I was also fed up with supermarkets – their produce was poor quality and overpriced. Box Divvy offers a far better solution; it's significantly cheaper, and the quality is unbelievable," Rob explains.
The need for better nutrition is critical, as less than 20% of Australians eat enough fruit and vegetables daily. Rob emphasises, "Quality and quantity are essential to protect against chronic lifestyle diseases. We need to prioritise vegetables and whole foods in our diets."
Box Divvy is a social enterprise business that aims to improve the food system and challenge the dominance of supermarkets. It connects communities with local farmers, providing market-fresh, locally grown seasonal fruits, vegetables, and pantry items. This model not only ensures incredible freshness but also supports local farmers with fair compensation, creating a win-win for everyone involved.
Rob took over the Randwick Hub when the previous Hubster could no longer continue. "I couldn't bear to go without the amazing produce. The quality and nutrition are exceptional because there's no cold storage – you can really taste the difference," Rob says.
Rob's Randwick Hub has quickly become a cornerstone of the community with over 53 families picking up their produce on Thursday afternoons from his gym. "The feedback from my members has been overwhelmingly positive. They love the quality and the savings," Rob says. "Our first batch of baby spinach stayed crispy for two weeks in the fridge, unlike supermarket spinach that wilts in just two days."
Running the Hub has also been a wonderful way for Rob to connect with his son, Luca, teaching him the importance of nutrition and the skills needed to run a micro-business. Rob jokes, "Luca is better at divvying up the produce than I am! It's great to see him take charge and learn the ropes."
Box Divvy co-founder Anton van den Berg elaborates on who might find running a Hub suitable: "Being a Hubster is perfect for retirees, parents at home, people working from home, or anyone with a few extra hours a week. It’s a wonderful way to meet people in your neighbourhood and have a positive impact."
Anton also praises Rob's dedication: "Rob’s commitment to nutrition and community wellness is truly inspiring. His Hub is a perfect example of how Box Divvy can transform communities, providing access to fresh, local produce and fostering healthier lifestyles."
What Box Divvy Brings to Randwick:
Community Building: Foster local ties and connect with neighbours, making Randwick feel even more like home.
Incredible Freshness: Enjoy produce delivered straight from local farms, bypassing the cold storage delays of supermarkets.
Save Up to 30%: Reduce your grocery bills while enjoying premium-quality produce.
Support for Farmers: Your purchase helps local farmers receive fair compensation, promoting sustainable farming practices.
Environmentally Sustainable: Benefit from minimal food miles and reduced packaging waste.
Transparent Pricing: See exactly what we pay our farmers, ensuring trust and fairness.
For more information on Box Divvy or to start your own Hub, visit www.boxdivvy.com.
