High roads
Frances Haysey’s Instagram account, The Honesty Box, documents unattended roadside stalls that deal in local produce (and charm).
When did you first see an honesty box? I grew up on a farm in country Victoria and my first encounter with honesty boxes was not far from home. I remember marvelling at the concept that you could just take something and leave cash. I’ve adored them ever since. Do you often encounter honesty boxes today? I’m a big road-tripper and love taking the random back road. I always pull over if I spot one when I’m adventuring. They combine my passions for nostalgic small-town Australia, seasonal, sustainable food and quirky design. When did you start your Instagram account, The Honesty Box? After I moved to northern NSW a few years ago — the volume and quality of the stalls up there is pretty incredible! You’ve found dragon fruit, custard apples and ginger this way. What’s a highlight of buying so directly from the source? On the way to a concert in Rous Mill, I picked up a bag of the most amazing lychees I’ve eaten in my life. We almost ate the whole bag before we even made it to the venue. The worst part is that I haven’t been able to find the stall again! But you did see a great honesty box over the Queensland border near Natural Bridge? They sell the most beautiful stuff including seed packets, relishes and jams. It’s like a CWA craft store on the side of the road. Why are honesty boxes thriving when going cashless and delivery apps are the trend? Shopping at your local honesty box will make you feel better about the world. For the farmer, they’re sharing excess stock and the lucky tourist or local is getting fresh (often organic) produce. There’s less food miles, less waste and it’s so much nicer to buy organic ginger from a wooden box on a beautiful country road than a supermarket. Any honesty boxes you’re keen to check out? My husband sent me the best photo of a stall that was festooned with oranges somewhere outside Mildura. I’ll report back. Follow The Honesty Box at @thehonestybox_