The Margaret River Farmers Market has once again been recognised as one of Australia’s leading regional produce events, with the announcement of the 2018 delicious Produce Awards finalists.
The market was shortlisted alongside the Abbotsford Convent Farmers’ Market in Victoria, and the Willunga Farmers’ Market in South Australia.
“It’s really lovely to be a finalist again, and to have the hard work of the Margaret River Regional Producers Association acknowledged,” said market coordinator Katrina Lombardo.
Ms Lombardo will travel to to Sydney for the awards ceremony in August, and said the trip would also include visits to other farmers markets. “It’s good to see what’s happening around the country and what other regions are doing,” she said.
“One thing that is very apparent when you’re in the Eastern States is just how small and unknown Margaret River is, in the whole scheme of things. There are some huge markets around the country, and a lot of work goes into retaining that authenticity and local sourcing that it imperative to a farmers market.”
One thing that is very apparent when you’re in the Eastern States is just how small and unknown Margaret River is, in the whole scheme of things.
- Katrina Lombardo, Margaret River Farmers Market
Lucy Allon of the delicious Produce Awards said it was the only national award that recognised Australia’s community-focused farmers’ markets.
“A Farmers’ Market is a predominantly fresh food market that operates regularly within a community, at a focal public location that provides a suitable environment for farmers and specialty food producers to sell farm-origin and associated value-added specialty foods for human consumption directly to customers.
“Applications are assessed on authenticity, community impact and engagement, market stall mix, innovation, accessibility, and, if they are a market that has been going for more than 5 years, that they maintain all of the above and continue to build on these values.”
Ms Lombardo said commitment from producers, customers and the Regional Producers Association ensured the market developed according to local standards.
“The Association came up with the idea back in 2002 and worked with Jane Adams – who is essentially the guru of farmers markets in Australia – to develop the idea into a real incubator of local producers and growers,” she said.
“The committee that runs the market has changed over the years and it continues to look for ways to improve, grow and thrive as the world changes.
“Then of course there are our dedicated stall holders who are there every single week, rain or shine, and who also work with us to maintain that authenticity as much as we possibly can.
“And finally the customers who continue to visit the market no matter the time of year or the weather, who appreciate the quality and the work that goes into those stalls every week.”
The 2018 Outstanding Farmers’ Market winner will be announced on August 13.
Nicky Lefebvre
I am a journalist, photographer and content creator based in the beautiful Margaret River wine region, covering all aspects of our community including local news, sport, entertainment and events, as well as providing a platform for our readers to share their voices direct from regional Australia.
I am a journalist, photographer and content creator based in the beautiful Margaret River wine region, covering all aspects of our community including local news, sport, entertainment and events, as well as providing a platform for our readers to share their voices direct from regional Australia.
