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The Extra Shelf

The Extra Shelf Food Is Free Tecoma is a community initiative designed to promote food security by providing access to free, healthy, and organic food. Originating from an international movement that began in Austin, Texas, this initiative has expanded to involve over 350 cities worldwide. In Tecoma, the project is a collaboration between Tecoma Uniting Church and The Hills Food Frontier, supported by funding from the Shire of Yarra Ranges.

Located at 1566 Burwood Highway within a Coolgardie safe, Food Is Free Tecoma offers a space where community members can leave surplus fruits, vegetables, herbs, seedlings, seeds, dry goods, and more. Individuals are also encouraged to take what they need and visit the FLAME community garden for additional fresh produce. This effort fosters a spirit of sharing and reinforces the belief that no one should go without healthy food.

Recent social media posts

Our great friends at Upwey Community Meal Night - Foothills Community Care  & Rotary Club of Belgrave are running a Bing...
05/06/2026

Our great friends at Upwey Community Meal Night - Foothills Community Care & Rotary Club of Belgrave are running a Bingo Fundraising Night Friday 5th June from 6pm for dinner, Bingo starts at 7pm. Please support them if you can by going along to a fun night.

Following the great success of our last Bingo night we are proud to open up tickets for our next Foothills Bingo Night, on Friday June 5.

Doors open at 6pm with eyes down 7pm sharp

Come along and have some fun while raising funds for a great local cause.

Our kitchen will be open serving a hot dinner from 6-7pm for $10 a plate.

Plenty of cash prizes, bonus rounds, raffles and spot prizes on the night.

Book online https://bingo-at-foothills.raiselysite.com/

All welcome. Foothills in Upwey and Ferntree Gully invite you to dinner every Monday night.
03/06/2026

All welcome. Foothills in Upwey and Ferntree Gully invite you to dinner every Monday night.

Winter has definitely kicked in this week, and while it's cold and wet outside, inside at our weekly community meals things are warm

Every Monday in Upwey and Wednesday in Ferntree Gully (4-6pm) we open our
doors for nights full of hot, hearty meals, food parcels, good conversation, and connection.

These meals are open to anyone and everyone. It’s about so much more than just food, it's about community and belonging when people need it most.

A massive thank you to our incredible volunteers and donors who brave the winter chill to make these nights happen every single week.

Come on in out of the cold, this winter, everyone is welcome at our table!

We have lots of cardboard boxes available on the deck of the Tecoma Uniting Church. Please come and take some for mulchi...
22/05/2026

We have lots of cardboard boxes available on the deck of the Tecoma Uniting Church. Please come and take some for mulching or any other purpose that you need. It would really help us out.

Not sure when we are open?Look for the open flag.Check this page, click on hours and a drop down box appears.If all else...
28/04/2026

Not sure when we are open?
Look for the open flag.
Check this page, click on hours and a drop down box appears.
If all else fails focus your phone on any QR code you see on all the signs and you will be directed to the TUC website.

The Extra Shelf pantry will be open on Anzac Day, this Saturday.When you shop buy an extra can to donate to the Extra Sh...
23/04/2026

The Extra Shelf pantry will be open on Anzac Day, this Saturday.
When you shop buy an extra can to donate to the Extra Shelf Verandah Emergency cupboard.
What a beautiful Autumn we are having.
What's your favourite food for Autumn?

Its easy to see our hours of operation.They are just below the banner on the pages. See you on Thursday.
19/04/2026

Its easy to see our hours of operation.
They are just below the banner on the pages. See you on Thursday.

Please come on down to Tecoma Uniting Church this afternoon we are open with lots of fresh fruit,  vegetables,  bread an...
19/04/2026

Please come on down to Tecoma Uniting Church this afternoon we are open with lots of fresh fruit, vegetables, bread and rolls available. Perfect with school going back tomorrow!
Open until 4pm today.

Please come on down this morning before 10:30am or between 6 to 8pm tonight as we have lots of fresh fruit,  vegetables ...
17/04/2026

Please come on down this morning before 10:30am or between 6 to 8pm tonight as we have lots of fresh fruit, vegetables and bread to share. We look forward to seeing you at the Extra Shelf a foidbank for all at the Tecoma Uniting Church.

17/04/2026

We’re open til 4.30 then again at 6.30 - 8pm

Friday night super special folks!6.30- 8pm lots of fresh fruit and veg and bread!Free bargains galore😆
17/04/2026

Friday night super special folks!
6.30- 8pm lots of fresh fruit and veg and bread!
Free bargains galore😆

Address

1566 Burwood Highway
Tecoma, VIC
3160

To reach your destination on Burwood Highway in Melbourne, you have a couple of options for both public transport and driving.

**Public Transport:**
1. **Train:** Take a train to the nearest station, which is Tecoma Station on the Belgrave Line. From there, it’s about a 15-minute walk to your destination.
2. **Bus:** Alternatively, you can take a bus that runs along Burwood Highway. Check local bus schedules for routes that stop near your location.

**Driving/Parking:**
1. If you're driving, head towards Burwood Highway and follow the signs to your destination.
2. There is usually street parking available nearby, but be sure to check for any parking restrictions or time limits.

Make sure to plan your trip ahead of time for the best experience!

Opening Hours

Thursday 9:30am - 4:30pm
Friday 9:30am - 4:30pm
6:30pm - 8:30pm
Saturday 8:30am - 10:30am
6pm - 8pm
Sunday 1pm - 3pm

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What people say

Food Is Free Tecoma is a remarkable initiative that embodies the spirit of community and sustainability. Located on Burwood Highway in the picturesque Dandenong Ranges, this food stand serves as a beacon of hope for those seeking access to healthy and organic foods.

The concept behind Food Is Free Tecoma is beautifully simple: it encourages individuals to share their surplus produce—be it fruits, vegetables, herbs, or dry goods—with others in need. This collaborative effort not only helps reduce food waste but also fosters a sense of togetherness among community members. The initiative invites everyone to take what they need while also contributing what they can, creating a cycle of generosity and support.

Housed at the Tecoma Uniting Church, the food is stored in a Coolgardie safe, ensuring that fresh offerings are always available. Additionally, the nearby FLAME community garden provides an opportunity for visitors to gather fresh produce directly from nature's bounty.

With its roots in an international movement aimed at promoting food security for all, Food Is Free Tecoma stands out as a shining example of how local efforts can make a significant impact. By participating in this initiative, you not only nourish yourself but also contribute to building a stronger and more resilient community. Embrace the philosophy of "Take what you want. Leave what you don't. Share what you have with love," and experience the warmth and camaraderie that Food Is Free Tecoma has to offer!

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