We were up bright and early before the heat of the day slowed us all down and we visited the small (once a month) Farmers Market at the local high school. There was a wide array of sellers from crafters to organic produce, all under the canopies, out of the heat of the already warm sun at 8 a.m. It is always good to talk to the makers and growers of what we buy. When travelling through out Australia try some of the local produce ; you will find some unique gifts and be able to buy fresh local fruit and veggies and perhaps gain a different perspective as there is always something new and interesting to learn in another country.
A Similar Farmers Market
There were many similarities to the markets we frequent in Canada – except at this time of the year the canopies in Canada are for snow protection and here in Australia they are for protection from the blistering sun and heat. Besides the weather the most noticeable difference was some of the items being sold such as “gummy shark” (from Bass Strait), fresh ripe avocados and olives and native (endemic) plant and tree sales. All the vendors and farmers were from this area and were also selling olive oil, cakes, biscuits, pies, pickles, jams, relishes, walnuts and eggs, cheese and fresh fruit and vegetables and one of my favourites protea flowers.
We purchased a variety of items mostly for our family dinner : fish, delicious tasting avocados, olives, vegetables as well as some gift items. The resulting dinner was very tasty and the flavour of produce picked that day (or the day before) exceeds anything purchased in a big box store. Remember when travelling, to follow the usual Safe Food Practices just the same as you would at home especially in very hot weather.
Sheep Manure a Super Mulch
We also purchased some bags of “Baa Poo” to mulch wilting fruit trees in their containers after a scorching day of record high temperatures. A little of the local paper recycled and some sheep manure to cover (the paper and soil) works wonders as a mulch in this hot weather.
A most enjoyable Saturday morning at the market!
References
- Roger and Carol Bilney of Mitchell River Avocados
- Uneek Soaps – hand crafted, palm oil free soaps
- Metung Olives – locally grown
- Australian Farmers’ Markets Association – goals and information
