A new stallholder at the Wednesday afternoon Farmers and Producers Market in Bellingen will not only boost the supply of fresh fruit and vegetables on offer but also meet consumer demand for shopping by the boxful.
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"We've had a lot of feedback from the community about pre-ordered boxes," market organiser Louise Hensby said.
"Homegrown Organics are keen to provide this service to our community so more people can access fresh, seasonal, chemical-free produce."
Patrons can pre-order their weekly produce from Homegrown Organics by 12pm Monday and pick it up at the market on Wednesday afternoon.
Louise said about 200 people are attending the market most weeks, and last week there were just over 250.
"The growers are bringing more fresh produce each week as the patronage is so strong, there is demand for it. Establishing this weekly market is exactly what growers need to make a viable income from the land, so they are thrilled so many people are returning and new customers are coming every week."
The market also has a community produce table for backyard growers who refrain from using synthetic chemicals or fertilisers.
"Many people in the region grow their own produce and often have surplus," Louise said "Backyard growers just need to bring their produce to market by 2pm on market day to register and set up in time for the market at 2.30pm."
Our Market Kitchen
The Asian inspired café run by Will and Emily is proving popular for afternoon tea or dinners, which can be eat-in or takeaway. They source all fresh ingredients from local growers and producers from the market and the menu has a new meal and dessert each week.
Calling buskers
Local musician Joe Newton coordinates the buskers for the market and he's always looking for local artists to entertain patrons for a couple of hours.
"In return they receive an abundant box of amazing fresh produce given by each grower or producer in exchange for the beautiful atmosphere and vibe that music brings to market," Louise said.
"They also receive a fabulous meal from Our Market Kitchen café and a drink too. All of this in addition to the earnings they make from busking for a few hours.
"All buskers have been absolutely delighted with the volume and quality of produce they have been gifted."
Anyone interested in busking at the market can contact Joe via the market Facebook page @bellingenfarmersproducersmarket
Contact details
Enquiries about the market can be made direct to Louise Hensby on 0402 564 206, email: bellingenfarmers@gmail.com
For information about the pre-ordered produce boxes from Homegrown Organics - Masters of Fresh, contact Desley on 0401 145 087 or desley@mastersoffresh.com.au .
Market details: Wednesdays, 2.30pm-6pm at Bellingen Showgrounds, Cnr Black & Hammond Streets, Bellingen.