The Apple Press Gang- An experiment in community resource sharing
The Macedon Ranges have had a bumper year for apples. In February 2021, a post on our Community Facebook Group ‘The Malmsbury Vine’ got some locals thinking- why not buy an apple press and chopper and share it between families? We could make delicious juice and cider at home and also organise gatherings to make things together!
Sharing of resources was one of the actions proposed in the Sustainable Malmsbury Action Plan in 2019 and this seemed a perfect way to try it out as a community-led action. One member set up a google sheet on the Malmsbury Vine and fifteen families signed up to the group-buy, making it very affordable to have access to quality gear. The apple press and chopper were bought from a local business, each family paid their share, and hey presto- in late February we were off and juicing!
A few considerations for such community actions:
Set-up an easy to use booking system
Set-up a group email for the group to connect and share photos, recipes and tips and tricks e.g ways to improve yield etc
Write up laminated instructions (with photos) for use and cleaning. This travels with the kit
Where will the equipment be stored?
Who will be responsible for maintenance?
Legal liability- each family is responsible for their own personal use, injury or breakage.
Have you done anything like this amongst your neighbours? Tell us about the benefits and concerns? What could be next? A passata maker perhaps?
Apple washing and chopping in progress!