So, you might not be able to buy a fat pig at one, but there’s no doubt that the growing awareness and support of a “paddock to plate” approach to food, sourcing boutique local produce and reducing food miles is driving the popularity and growth of local growers’ and farmers’ markets and we’re fortunate that we’ve now got several operating (or soon to start) locally. Here’s a round up of what’s currently on offer and soon to come.
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The Kyilla Community Farmers’ Market in North Perth started operating on the 8th of June on the grounds adjacent to Kyilla Primary School on Clieveden Street – it’s great to see these spaces being used for the benefit of the community and to see the proceeds from its operation go back to a deserving cause (the School). The market offers a number of fruit & veg stalls, meat & fish, a selection of local gourmet produce including bread, cakes, fresh pastas, honey, Indian pastes and spices and chai tea and of course, coffee. It operates from 8:30 to 11:30am every Saturday (some providers are there alternate Saturdays) and and has a wonderful community feel. Shoppers are encouraged to bring their own bags.
Perth City Farm, located at the back of the carpark on Royal Street, East Perth, operates from 8:00 to 12:00 each Saturday and has a focus on organic and biodynamic produce and supporting growers with ethical and sustainable farming practices. There is a cafe, plant nursery and community garden on site and it’s become a well-loved fixture on the calendar of many inner city locals.
Maylands Markets. Having just received council approval, the Maylands Markets is hoping to commence in September 2013 and will operate weekly in the area next to The Rise in Eighth Avenue. With the intention of being a small, boutique market, the co-ordinators are looking to offer hand-made goods and locally grown produce with an emphasis on “artisan”. If you think you might be interested in talking to them about having a stall, you can do that here: http://eventsandbeyond.com.au/contact/stallholders/ and if you want to stay in touch with their news, check out their facebook page.
Mondo Spring Markets, Inglewood. Run every Saturday morning from Spring to Summer (so closed at the moment) at the back of Mondo Butchers on the corner of Sixth Ave & Beaufort Street, the market offers a selection of fresh fruit & veg, breads, treats from local providers and my personal favourite, a knife sharpening stall (I get mine sharpened here every year). Locals like to come and hang out either before or after they’ve picked up their pounds of flesh from the butchers for coffee, pastries, cakes or whatever yummy food is on offer that week, including the famous hot roast rolls available from the front of the store.
And a bit further afield…
Old Perth Road Markets, Bassendean. Opposite the Bassendean Train Station on Old Perth Road, these markets are held on the last Sunday of every month (except for December, when it’s the Sunday before Christmas) from 9:00am to 1:00pm but can be subject to cancellation if it’s bad weather. With a bent more towards retail than farmers market style produce (although you will find fruit & veg & bakery items) this market is provides activities for the kids, such as go karts or pedal karts every other month, music and entertainment so is worth that short 10 minute drive down Guildford Road for a morning of family fun.
Do you have a favourite local market that you go to? What do you like best about it? Share your tips with us here – we’d love to know.
