The following article also appears on http://www.wellnesswa.com.au/
I have to admit the thought of exploring the Stirling Farmers Market on a steamy 36 degree, thunderstorm induced morning, didn’t have me bouncing out of bed, still I’d said I’d go.
I have to admit the thought of exploring the Stirling Farmers Market on a steamy 36 degree, thunderstorm induced morning, didn’t have me bouncing out of bed, still I’d said I’d go.
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Situated in the shadows of the Council building, it was a pleasure to drive straight into a car space, without having to tail a vegetable laden customer snaking their way back to their car while dragging a belligerent two year old. With parking for 350 cars the first signs were good for the growing market.
Moving around the stalls my gait resembled the limited trajectory of a chess pawn as I bounced from one shaded area to another.
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Thankfully the vibrant colours of the produce took my mind off the heat, and the stall owners were quick to chat about their produce. I even overheard one arranging to personally deliver an order later in the day.
The trays of apricots were gone by 9am, and the tomatoes selling quicker than they could be bagged.
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It was a delight to buy fruit that wasn’t already teetering around its use by date. Even more delightful was having the stall owner’s son carry larger orders to your car. You don’t find that at your local megastore.
Other stalls were equally enticing – artisan breads catering to a range of dietary needs, natural honey, local garlic, free range eggs, Moroccan spices, a multitude of mushrooms, flowers and an array of freshly squeezed juices, some thick enough to stand on their own, sans bottle.
Other stalls were equally enticing – artisan breads catering to a range of dietary needs, natural honey, local garlic, free range eggs, Moroccan spices, a multitude of mushrooms, flowers and an array of freshly squeezed juices, some thick enough to stand on their own, sans bottle.
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Two years in the planning the markets first opened on December 18th. Organised by the Karrinyup Rotary Club all produce must be locally produced. The aim is to extend the range and possibly offer one stall free of charge to local clubs holding membership drives or community awareness programs.
With my car boot full of produce I ended my morning sitting under a shady tree nibbling on a moist apple coconut slice, while watching crepes being cooked and hoping the markets get the community support they need to continue beyond the trial period of February 26th.
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No wonder consumer psychology tells us that consumers are turning to farmers markets – fresh, high quality produce, knowing where it’s come from and being able to chat with the grower.
I’m definitely going back next weekend if only for another piece of the apple slice, but first does anyone know what I can do with a tray of avocados, two bags of tomatoes and six huge, crisp pink lady apples?
2 Comments
Guacamole, Tomato Chutney and Apple Pies 🙂
mmmm guacamole great idea, especially in this heat, ta BIQ