What’s Happening?
Health and Wellbeing Queensland’s Pick of the Crop initiative has reached a major milestone. The program now reaches schools across Queensland, including the Darling Downs.
Launched in 2021, the initiative combines kitchen, garden and curriculum activities. Through these activities, students learn about vegetables and fruit. They also plant, grow, pick and eat fresh produce.
Since its launch, the program has expanded into the Far North, North Queensland, Darling Downs and southeast Queensland.
Why It Matters
Health and Wellbeing Queensland Chief Executive Dr Robyn Littlewood said children need to build healthy eating habits from an early age.
“We know healthy habits start young, and that is exactly what Pick of the Crop is all about,” Dr Littlewood said.
“Through our work, Health and Wellbeing Queensland is supporting schools to create a positive food culture and giving students the chance to learn where healthy food comes from.”
Local Impact
Pick of the Crop now reaches the Darling Downs as part of its expansion across Queensland.
Regional coordinators work with state schools to develop plans that suit each school community. For example, activities can include gardening, grower connections, classroom learning and fruit and vegetable breaks.
Coordinators then support schools as they put these plans into action throughout the school year.
By The Numbers
- 300 schools have been reached by Pick of the Crop as the Queensland initiative marks its latest milestone.
- More than 70,000 students have planted, grown, picked and eaten vegetables and fruit through the initiative and related classroom activities.
- 3.2 per cent of Queensland children aged 5 to 11 eat the recommended daily serves of vegetables, according to the 2025 Report of the Chief Health Officer, Queensland.
Zoom In
School gardens give children hands-on experience with fresh food. Through these activities, students can grow, taste and enjoy vegetables and fruit.
Health and Wellbeing Queensland Senior Public Health Nutritionist and Pick of the Crop lead Beth Meertens explained the benefits of this approach.
“We know healthy eating supports growth and development, protects against illness, improves learning and energy for play and sport, and helps set children up for lifelong healthy habits,” Ms Meertens said.
“By integrating food and nutrition education into the curriculum, along with hands-on school activities, and grower and community connections, POTC is focused on making healthy eating a part of everyday life.”
Zoom Out
Pick of the Crop started as a pilot with 35 state schools in Bowen, Bundaberg and Logan in 2021. Since then, the initiative has expanded across Queensland, including the Darling Downs.
The program combines food and nutrition education with practical activities and connections to growers. As a result, students can learn about fresh food both inside and outside the classroom.
What To Look For Next?
Following a recent funding boost from Hort Innovation, Health and Wellbeing Queensland plans to reach more children through Pick of the Crop. Chief Executive Dr Robyn Littlewood outlined the program’s plans.
“Thanks to a recent funding boost from Hort Innovation, we are looking forward to reaching even more Queensland children. Because the reality is, too many kids are still not eating enough veggies and fruit, and they are missing out on important nutrients at a critical time for growth and development.”
Meanwhile, regional coordinators will continue supporting state schools throughout the school year. They will help schools implement plans that encourage children to eat and learn about vegetables and fruit.