THE current election campaign has been like a three-month pregnancy labour, waiting to give birth to a new government.
So anything that could act as an epidural to lighten the pain would be welcome.
There could be a window of opportunity for the nut, vegetable, fruit and herb industries at this point.
How can the fresh produce industry make the most of this election?
There is more than ample commentary being served up in the bain-marie of information that is the internet, so one more super-serious election piece would be a waste.
The various farmer lobby groups have done a solid job in stating their priorities during the campaign, some of which have been picked up by the media and given good coverage.
We can do more though by thinking outside the (ballot) box.
Many see the need to cast their vote as a chore.
Instead, the horticulture industry could embrace election day like a special event, similar to a football grand final or Australia Day.
After all, it is a celebration of democracy, the freedom and foundations of this country.
With polling booths traditionally being held at schools, business-minded P&C association members will have the barbecue fired up to entice citizens to part with a few dollars.
Alongside this might just be a delightful array of home-made bakery treats that voters could pick up for afternoon or morning tea and ponder about the outcome of the process they've just taken part in.
It's at these points fresh produce could capitalise.
If every polling booth had a produce stand located near it, or at least an individual grower or group of growers, handing out samples, that would get the fresh produce message out to a lot of people.
Wouldn't a voter's day be all the brighter if someone handed them a complimentary mandarin or sweet potato instead of a how-to-vote pamphlet?
Given the opportunity to munch on a carrot or a banana or apple or bunch of grapes or handful of almonds or some snacking tomatoes could be just the relief voters need from being swarmed upon by the leaflet-handers (perhaps not their official name) lining the pathway.
The campaign would be about giving people an insight into the abilities of their local farmers.
The idea of giving away a piece of fruit may make some growers nervous (particularly with the value of avocados at the moment) but there is a long-term gain to be had here.
In fact, there is an opportunity to promote something of a faux-political party- The Fresh Produce Party.
This would be, of course, an apolitical movement.
It's not trying to influence anyone to throw away their precious vote but merely bring healthy, raw food to front of mind on a day when clear thinking is required.
- (* written with tongue firmly in check)
