We know you can taste the difference when produce is treated properly. When it’s picked well, handled well and delivered by people who care just as much about their produce as we do our dinners. That’s why we work with Select Fresh Providores.
Founded by Dominic Barba, who migrated from Italy in 1980 with a lifelong background in fruit and vegetable farming, Select Fresh began as a hands-on market operation built on strong grower relationships and real produce knowledge. More than 20 years on, it has grown into a trusted wholesale supplier servicing businesses across New South Wales and Queensland, while remaining proudly family-owned.
They distribute over 85,000 tonnes of fresh produce each year, with 198,000 kilograms making its way into our kitchen alone. Big numbers, yes, but always handled with care. They prioritise long-term grower partnerships, consistent quality and responsive service, with a leadership team still involved in the day-to-day. And that’s exactly how we like our produce sourced.
Tell us about when you started working with The Dinner Ladies?
Paulo has known both Wilson (TDL Procurement and Inventory Manager) and Josh (TDL Head of Planning) for over six years, having worked closely with them in the past. We are now three years into supplying The Dinner Ladies with a strong, well-established relationship and a solid produce program in place.
How have you seen the food landscape change throughout the years?
Seasonality has shifted due to ongoing climate changes, with weather patterns becoming increasingly unpredictable. This has impacted stock availability and altered traditional commencement times for certain lines. Fortunately, our ability to source produce across multiple states and growing regions allows us to remain agile and continue supporting supply requirements through our strong network of growers and farms.
Do you follow sustainable practices in your business?
We genuinely care about minimising waste; it’s something we actively prioritise. At Select, we are committed to utilising our produce as efficiently as possible, ensuring every stage of the product lifecycle is considered.
The finished product is delivered to our customers at full specification and quality. Off-cuts are repurposed and supplied to customers who require prepared or secondary-grade product for specific uses. Any remaining scraps are diverted from landfill by working closely with local farms, where they are returned for composting or used as animal feed.
We also operate a cardboard box return program, delivering produce in cartons and collecting them on the next delivery to support reuse and recycling. As part of our ongoing sustainability efforts, we are progressively moving away from plastic crates in favour of more environmentally responsible alternatives.
What kind of produce is trending/popular in 2025/2026?
Potatoes are back on the trending list, returning to full rotation and strong availability following last year’s supply shortage. Stone fruit, particularly peaches, nectarines and plums, are eating exceptionally well now and delivering excellent quality. Cherries and KP mangoes were standout performers this season and proved very popular, however they are now coming to the end of their run. Watermelon remains a consistent favourite, offering great eating quality and strong value right now. Avocados remain one of the top-selling lines nationally. While supply follows seasonal patterns, they are available year-round across varieties, including Shepherd and Hass. Hass is typically the preferred variety, known for its creamier texture and superior eating quality.
What’s your favourite meal from The Dinner Ladies?
Paulo’s top three favourite meals are:
Classic Beef Lasagna – a true family favourite
Middle Eastern Lamb Flatbreads and Spinach & Cheese Flatbread
Butter Chicken
That said, we’ve tried nearly the entire range and can honestly say they’re all fantastic. Each dish is easy to prepare, consistently delicious, and perfect not only for family dinners but also for entertaining, parties and gatherings.
