Supporting the Heart of Our Communities: Flavorite’s Regional Matters Sponsorship Program

At Flavorite, we believe in growing more than just great produce, we believe in growing strong, connected communities. 

With sites in Warragul, Tatura, Mansfield, Katunga, Ravenhall, and Epping, we're proud to operate in some of Victoria's most vibrant regional areas. But our connection to these towns goes far beyond geography. These are the hometowns of our team members, their families, and the local groups that support them. 

Regional communities face unique challenges that urban areas often overlook. From limited access to services and infrastructure, to economic pressures that can threaten local institutions, these areas require businesses to step up as genuine community partners.  

The Beginning of Regional Matters 

When we sat down in FY22 to discuss how we could better support our communities, the conversation kept coming back to one simple truth: our people know their communities best. They're the ones coaching the local footy teams, volunteering at the food bank, and sitting on school committees. So we asked ourselves, why not give them the power to direct where our support goes? 

That's how the Flavorite Regional Matters Sponsorship Program was born, built on two fundamental beliefs. First, that our employees should have a voice in shaping how we give back to the places they call home. Second, that we should support the local organisations and charities that are already doing incredible work in our regions. 

Since launching, we've donated over $50,000 to causes our people care about. In FY25 alone, we supported 16 local organisations and charities. From community kitchens feeding families in need, to sporting clubs nurturing the next generation, charities providing vital support and food relief organisations ensuring no one goes hungry. Every dollar represents a story, a connection, and a commitment to the communities that have welcomed us with open arms. 

Tatura Rotary Club - A Valued Partnership  

One of our most valued partnerships exemplifies what Regional Matters is all about. The Rotary Club of Tatura, chartered over 60 years ago, has been a consistent force for good in their community, supporting local schools, youth groups, aged care facilities, and major infrastructure projects. 

Through our sponsorship program, we've supported their vital work maintaining the Victory Hall complex, a community hub used extensively by locals, including many of our own employees. Our recent grant enabled them to upgrade the carpet in the hall's foyer, a seemingly simple improvement that has made a significant difference. As one Rotary member shared a few months ago, "Tonight the hall is being used by a local karate instructor... In June, this is the venue for our Rotary Art Show with over 1,000 people during the long weekend." 

The impact ripples outward in ways we couldn't have anticipated. During their recent Art Show, our donated tomatoes and capsicums were transformed into minestrone soup, warming visitors on cold winter days. 

But the partnership extends beyond funding and produce donations. For the past two years, Tatura Rotary has facilitated our annual Christmas BBQs at our local farms, serving hundreds of team members. It's a beautiful example of how industry and community organisations can collaborate to strengthen the social fabric of regional towns. 

It's these connections between our produce, our people, and our communities that make regional business meaningful.  

Looking Forward: FY2026 and Beyond 

As we begin planning for the FY2026 Regional Matters Sponsorship Round, we're reaching out with an invitation. Are you—or do you know—a charity or community organisation making a difference in Warragul, Tatura, Mansfield, Katunga, Ravenhall, or Epping? We'd love to hear from you. 

The applications are now open, and we're seeking partners who share our vision of thriving regional communities. Whether you're addressing food security, supporting youth development, enhancing community infrastructure, or providing essential services, we want to understand how we can help amplify your impact. 

At Flavorite, we've learned that sustainable business means sustainable communities. When we invest in the places where our people live and work, we're not just fulfilling a corporate responsibility; we're building the foundation for long-term success, both for our business and for the regions we call home. 

Let's continue building a future that nourishes people, places, and purpose. 

To learn more about the Flavorite Regional Matters Sponsorship Program or to submit an application, reach out to katia.howell@flavorite.com.au or connect with us here on LinkedIn.