Echuca Farmers Market has received a boost after the community group was awarded a $60,000 Vic Grown Regional Activation Grant by the state government.
President of the market, Tim Harley, said the grant would be used to promote and showcase market producers and educate the public on the importance of supporting local growers.
“The grant will certainly be put to good use. We will be showcasing some of our producers over a six-month period starting in October and kicking off with Oakwood Small Goods – an exceptionally high-quality artisan, producing over 100 different smallgoods and meat lines,” Mr Harley said.
The producer showcases will be a free event held at the farmers market on the first Saturday of each month and will include demonstrations, tastings and free giveaways.
“The grant will enable us to purchase product from the producer to give away to the public and I am extremely excited to be able to offer this to support our producers,” he said.
There are also plans afoot to host a kids’ cooking class in January along with a special Christmas-themed event in December.
“We will cordon off an area of the market with our marquees and seating and dedicate the space to the particular producer or theme.
“The biggest and most exciting part of this grant is it will enable us to support our producers and give back to them. Our small producers need support and if this helps customers look at our producer and the market through a different lens, then that’s a great thing,” he said.
Mr Harley said he was using the grant as a way to bridge the gap and give customers a real behind-the-scenes look into the producers, along with the value in supporting local producers.
“We all know every dollar spent at a farmers market stays in the community and supports our region and that is something we want to see grow.
“Getting to talk to our producers and hear the stories behind their products is amazing and something we want to continue to encourage.”
As the owner of Quincey Jones Jelly, Mr Harley has been attending the market for years.
Three years ago he took on the role of president when the market was in danger of folding.
“Back then we had about nine stalls and it is fair to say didn’t have the same positive reputation that it does now.
“Today with the help of a new committee and a new location near the old tourist centre, we now average around 35 stalls and we have everything from produce through to bread, soap, artisanal cheeses, dog treats, flowers, alcohol, wood work and fresh meat.
“The Echuca Farmers Market has become a bit of an institution, and we get a lot of local support from people who love the freshness, quality and low food miles of our producers.”
He said in a tourist town like Echuca-Moama, the market was invaluable.
“A visit to the local farmers market enriches a tourist’s stay and helps to showcase our region.”
At the end of the day, Mr Harley said the market was a great place to visit, even if it was just for a coffee or pastry.
“We have live music, seating, great coffee and a myriad of quality stall-holders and producers. It’s a great Saturday morning outing,” he said.
The Echuca Farmers Market is open the first and third Saturday of each month from 8am-12.30pm.