With an organic grocery story, a produce co-op, a farmers market, an urban tucker stall at the farmers market, an organic cafe, community gardens, a permaculture group, a school veggie garden and local backyard gardens, Islington offers a wide selection of sustainable food options.

"The emerging sustainable food options in Islington can only play a greater part in our overall food system if residents in and around Islington know about them and understand their benefits," says Bonnie McBain of the Islington Village Community Group.

To create publicity for the sustainable food options, the Islington Village Community Group and the Watson Transition Street group ran a scarecrow making workshop with the children from Islington Public School, assisted by members of the local community. Funding for the workshop was provided through Newcastle City Council's Make Your Place Community Grant Program.

 "The idea was to get the community involved in making scarecrows that could be displayed in front of local businesses to get people talking about sustainable food available in the local area. We've also created a website, 'Grass Roots Iso', that lists details and localities of local foodies in the suburb and surrounding areas," says Bonnie.

The scarecrows will be displayed along Maitland Road to create a talking point for those travelling through Islington, showcasing the area as a hub for sustainable living in Newcastle and a thriving suburb with much to offer those who visit.

The scarecrows were constructed using recycled or organic materials where possible, including clothing sourced from local op shops. At the completion of the project they will be donated in their entirety to others or the hay will be donated to local community gardens for use as mulch.

The scarecrows will be on display in front of businesses at the intersection of Beaumont Street and Maitland Road in Islington during business hours from Saturday 19 January to Sunday 3 February.