- Communities in Comboyne and Forster organize barter-style crop swaps to cope with high fuel and living costs.
- Participants trade surplus produce like fruits, vegetables, and homemade goods without using money, fostering self-reliance and reducing waste.
- The swaps strengthen community connections by enabling social interaction, sharing knowledge, and building relationships among residents.
- Experts note that bartering restores a sense of control during economic uncertainty and provides social value lacking in traditional supermarkets.