News Archives…

FREE RANGE EGG DEBATE CONTINUES TO HATCH
Release Date: 2016-04-03
Recent announcements about the definition of what exactly constitutes a Free Range egg has devastated many smaller genuinely free range egg farmers, including Victoria’s Family Homestead, who sell in farmers’ markets.
Read more… https://www.theage.com.au/victoria/free-range-will-the-chickens-come-home-to-roost-on-new-agreement-20160401-gnw0wc.html
Contact:  For more information, please contact:  www.freerangefarmers.com.au

BOOTING UP ALL OVER AUSTRALIA
Release Date: 2016-03-08
Australia’s farmers’ market managers are getting right behind the BOOTS FOR CHANGE Campaign. Over 35 farmers’ markets from Esperance, Geraldton and Margaret River in WA; VIC: Melbourne Farmers Markets’ eight central Melbourne markets – including Collingwood Childrens’ Farm, Coburg, Gasworks, Slow Food and University of Melbourne; and Byron Bay, Bangalow, Bega, Nethercote and Orange in NSW have all pledged support.  In SA the boot brigade is led by Adelaide and Gawler Farmers’ Markets, plus Adelaide Hills and Mt Pleasant Farmers’ Markets.  In TAS boots will be scooting at the Harvest Farmers’ Market in Launceston, while in QLD the boot brigade is lead off by Toowoomba and Blackall Range Farmers’ Markets.  A complete list of BOOTS FOR CHANGE markets will be posted soon…
Contact:  For more information, please contact:  info@bootsforchange.org.au

MARKETS BOOTING UP FOR CHANGE
Release Date: 2016-02-28
Over 20 farmers’ markets from Esperance WA to Lismore NSW are planning to pull on their boots – farm boots, tap boots, riding boots, footy boots to support the BOOTS FOR CHANGE campaign in April 2016.  There is still a week (closing date 8 March) for markets to sign up to be part of this national awareness campaign.
For the entire month of April boots will be a common sight on market day – on the feet of hundreds of stall holders and shoppers at farmers’ markets.  There will be plenty of boot fun too – Boot Parades, Boot Painting,Boot Scooting, Boot Cookie bake-offs – so whether you are a farmers’ market shopper, market organiser or community organisation – be sure to boot up to support Australia’s farming families, and start new community conversations about how your town can shop local from farmers and artisan food makers.   More details: www.bootsforchange.org.au
Contact:  For more information, please contact:  info@bootsforchange.org.au

SOUTH AUSTRALIAN FARMERS’ MARKET UPDATE
Release Date: 2015-11-30
A case before the South Australian Environment Resources and Development Court (ongoing) has given rise to some concerns in the broader farmers’ market sector.  In the context of this action AFMA seeks to reinforce awareness of the AFMA definition of a farmers’ market.  AFMA is the national peak body for the farmers’ market sector and advocates best practice farmers’ markets.  The AFMA definition of a farmers’ market is widely accepted.
“A Farmers’ market is a predominantly fresh food market that operates regularly within a community, at a focal public location that provides a suitable environment for farmers and specialty food producers to sell farm-origin and associated value-added specialty foods and plant products directly to customers.”
The essence of this definition advocates that there are no resellers trading in a farmers’ market; that the market operates to offer farm direct produce sold to consumers by the farmers and producers who have grown, reared, caught or artisan value-added the food they sell.  Farmers’ markets are inherently temporary installations trading for the benefit of the members of the host community and its food producers.  Farmers’ markets can and do trade symbiotically with local retail food suppliers, many of whom stock locally o regionally grown food for offer on a regular weekly retail basis.  Additional information concerning best practice, which is intended to distinguish authentic farmers’ markets from other expressions of community markets is available from www.farmersmarkets.org.au
Contact:  For more information, please contact:  info@farmersmarkets.org.au

MORUYA FARMERS MARKET DELIVERS $1.7M ECONOMIC IMPACT
Release Date: 2015-11-16
SAGE Moruya Farmers’ Market has published an Economic Impact [2014-15] Study that shows the weekly market  delivers powerful economic benefits to the NSW South Coast community.  The report details the local economic development impacts of its hugely successful farmers’ market, and the bottom line is taking everyone by surprise.Or perhaps not everyone.
“The market’s managing committee knew that the market was generating serious economic activity.  We could see that it was making a big difference to the lives of people growing food around here,” said the Market’s Committee Chairman Stuart Whitelaw.
After surveying customers at four markets over 12 months, it was revealed that shoppers spend $1,769,000 annually at the SAGE Farmers’ Market.  Additionally, customers were also asked if they intended to shop elsewhere in Moruya that day.  Almost 75% of shoppers indicated they shopped elsewhere in town on market day, spending $1,459,000 annually with other retail businesses.  The study also obtained qualitative data from businesses in Moruya, with almost 70% of survey responses indicating they believed the market has a positive or very positive impact on the town.
The SAGE Farmers Market is a genuine farmers’ market that adheres to the best practice guidelines of the Australian Farmers’ Markets Association.  This ensures that every stall holder is inspected and customers can be confident that what they are buying is grown, harvested or made by the person they’re buying it from.
“The Moruya SAGE Farmers’ Market is a shining example of the immense power of authentic well-managed farmers markets to grow local economies, and showcase regional agriculture and food production.  The SAGE Report provides valuable data on wide-ranging economic impacts of farmers’ markets and will be a
useful tool for market operators and governments Australia-wide,” commented AFMA spokesperson, Jane Adams.
“This report really challenges the idea that local food is some kind of niche activity for a few hobby farmers,” said Stuart Whitelaw.  “We’ve known for a while that something big is happening in local agriculture in our region.  A new industry is emerging, or I should say, an old industry is re-emerging.  This report provides positive evidence that everyone can relate to.”
Contact:  For more information, please contact:  Stuart Whitelaw SAGE   M: 0427 736 226 or Jane Adams AFMA  M: 0417 733715

BOOK REVIEW:
Release Date: 2015-07-19  SUPERMARKET MONSTERS By Malcolm Knox (Redback)
Two rotten apples adorn the cover of this dissection of Australia’s supermarket sector – dominated by the brand behemoths so intrinsic to Australia’s foodscape. Malcolm Knox’s examination of the market power and practices of the duopoly (with cameo appearances by that cheeky German outfit) makes for a riveting read, if only to join the all-pervasive dots of mainstream Australian food and liquor retailing, from Joondalup to Mullumbimby.  The stats will startle; so will the relative leniency of the regulators’ malpractice ‘smacks’.  People power plays a heartening role in Byron Bay, while Hobart’s Hill Street Grocer is a beacon of hope in Knox’s bleak retail landscape.
This is essential reading if you are a primary or artisan producer thinking of expanding your supply chain to embrace the big league. And inter alia, a terrific recruitment call-out for the vibrant farmers’ market sector – where farmers’ are genuinely celebrated and supported for their endeavours in producing seasonal, fresh, farm-direct Australian grown food.  Perhaps Malcolm Knox would like to pen a sequel with two prime rosy apples on the jacket, titled ‘Farmers’ Market Minnows?’   www.blackinkbooks.com
Contact:  For more information, please contact:  enquiries@blackinkbooks.com

OXFAM WORLD FOOD CAMPAIGN – EAT LOCAL FEED GLOBAL
Release Date: 2014-10-09
AFMA is pleased to support Oxfam’s EAT LOCAL FEED GLOBAL initiative.
Sign-up to Host a Lunch or Dinner lovingly prepared solely from fresh food purchased from local producers at your nearest Farmers’ Market.  Such a simple gesture can help support Oxfam’s important work.  For more details go to:  https://www.everydayhero.com.au/event/ELFG2014/get-involved
During the Oxfam EAT LOCAL FEED GLOBAL campaign fill your market basket, backpack or trolley with just-picked fruit and vegies, golden yolk eggs, tender grass raised meat, artisan cheese or crusty bread – or other healthy produce.  Then invite friends and family to share a meal in support of this important Oxfam initiative.
Contact:  For more information, please contact:  Melita Grant +61 2 8204 3913   E:  melitag@oxfam.org.au

MORUYA FARMERS’ MARKET ON AIR
Release Date: 2014-08-25
ABC Radio National woke the nation with farmers’ market good news on Saturday…  Click the link to listen to their coverage of the Delicious Magazine Best Farmers’ Market winner – the weekday market at Moruya, NSW…  https://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-08-05/farmers-markets-moruya-sage/5649770
Contact:  For more information, please contact:  Jane Adams info@farmersmarkets.org.au

LAUNCESTON HARVEST MARKET LAUNCHES LOO
Release Date: 2014-07-02
Harvest Launceston Community Farmers’ Market proudly announces the opening of their sustainable market loo!  Housed in a recycled shipping container, the architect designed conveniences represent the culmination of months of WC anxiety and are a testimony to the power of community goodwill.
The project was stimulated by Launceston City Council insisting that on-site toilet facilities were needed to comply with building regulations.  This threw the market committee into turmoil as initial alternatives such as porta-loo hire were prohibitive.  Lateral thinking was needed.  The sustainable solution – a toilet in a recycled shipping container.  This innovative plan reflects the Harvest ethos and commitment to sustainability and authenticity (using a recycled shipping container, quality donated recycled hand basins); and it was achievable.
Thanks go to the incredible contribution and collaboration of architects, builders, plumbers, town planners and sponsors, who recognized the potential of the idea and made it happen.
The Tasmanian Community Fund heard the Harvest cry for help and awarded a grant to ensure the ongoing success and viability of Launceston’s award-winning farmers’ market.  The TCF “works with Tasmanians to make a difference” by providing grants to community organisations to enhance the “well-being and improving social, environmental and economic outcomes for the Tasmanian community”.  Suddenly a pioneering and idea for a loo became reality and a steel box was transformed into the most amazing, disabled approved ablution facility.
Much official flushing commissioned the toilet on June 14 Market Day, the toilet paper ceremoniously cut by the Mayor.  Thanks to the loo believers including TCF, Todd Henderson and the crew from Cumulus Studio Architects, the mayor of Launceston City Council and his team, Flooring Innovations, Core Construction and Grant Chugg Plumbing.  If your market needs a new loo –  just flush out Launceston Harvest Farmers’ Market for guidance.
Contact:  For more information, please contact:  Kim Hewitt  kim@harvestmarket.org.au

HARVEST LAUNCESTON WINS 2013 DELICIOUS PRODUCE AWARD for OUTSTANDING FARMERS MARKET
Release Date: 2013-07-15
Congratulations to Harvest Launceston winners of the ‘OUTSTANDING FARMERS’ MARKET’ Award in the 2013 DELICIOUS PRODUCE AWARDS...  selected by the judges for its hallmark ‘integrity, passion and bountiful local produce.’  Congratulations too, to the other category finalists Adelaide Showground Farmers’ Market (SA) and Koondrook Barham Farmers’ Market (VIC)  www.delicious.com.au
Contact:  For more information, please contact:  Lucy Allon 0419 299 862

PRIME MINISTER & FARMERS’ MARKETS
Release Date: 2013-06-17
It’s a first!  Farmers’ markets led national TV-news bulletins this month… because the Prime Minister Julia Gillard chose to visit the busy Sunday Adelaide Showground Farmers’ Market.  This initiative could be seen as a tacit acknowledgement that farmers’ markets are great places to connect with community and your constituency.  It’s expected other campaigning politicians may choose to visit their electorate farmers’ markets between now and election day.  Here’s hoping they buy a basket-full of locally grown farm fresh food!

COMMUNITY FOOD GRANTS – APPLICATIONS CLOSED
Release Date: 2013-06-06
DONT DELAY… The Australian Government $1.5 million Community Food Grants program Application Call is now open!  This key initiative of the National Food Plan offers Farmers’ Markets, community gardens, food cooperatives, food rescue services or groups with an idea for community food initiatives the opportunity to apply for program funding.  The grants are offered on a matched dollar or equipment funding basis and applications are due before 5pm 4 July 2013
.  
For further information please visit:  www.daff.gov.au/community-food-grants
Contact:  For more information, please contact:  HOTLINE 1800 702 330  E:  communityfoodgrants@daff.gov.au

COMMUNITY FOODS INITIATIVE
Release Date: 2013-05-23
Minister for Agriculture Senator Joe Ludwig, announced yesterday a $1.5 million small grant COMMUNITY FOODS INITIATIVE program while visiting Northey Street City Farm.  “The Gillard Government will provide grants of up to $25,000 to support farmers markets, community gardens, city farms, food hubs, cooperatives and food rescue service projects to start up and expand, said Senator Ludwig.
“These organisations widen our access to new and interesting foods, support better health and lifestyles, increase food knowledge and support jobs by providing alternative ways to market products.  Community food also brings people together, builds cohesion and helps bridge the gap between farmers and consumers.”  Minister Ludwig said this program aimed to help overcome barriers to the establishment and improvement of community food initiatives.  “The Gillard Government wants to help community food initiatives to expand by partnering with them and providing funding for these projects.”
Up to $10,000 will be available for small scale initiatives such as community gardens, city farms or similar activities and up to $25,000 will be available for larger initiatives such as farmers markets, food rescue activities or similar activities.  A call for applications for the Community Food Initiative will be released soon.
Contact:  For more information, please contact:  Katana Smith  0459 813 574

VICTORIA’S HARVEST
Release Date: 2012-12-04
Treat yourself and your food loving friends to this fabulous Christmas gift – SEASONAL REGIONAL – a textural passionate compendium celebrating a crop of Victoria’s hardworking farmers and food producers whom you may have already met at a local farmers’ market.  Written by Sarah Robins, this scrumptious regional food showcase tells inspiring farm stories, features seasonal produce from apples to buffalo cheese, truffles to venison, comments on food supply issues and then connects the paddock-plate supply chain to your dinner table with lip-smacking seasonal recipes.  How about cider cured salmon for your Christmas table followed by cherry pancakes?
Contact:   For more information, please contact:  info@sustainabletable.org.au   T 03 8644 4050

AUSTRALIA’S ‘FOOD SHOCK’
Release Date: 2012-10-16
The cover of Food Shock claims ‘If you Care About the Food You Eat, you should read this book’.  YOU SHOULD!
Queensland journalist and commercial beef producer Dianne Loughnan is Australia’s answer to Michael Pollan celebrated US author of The Omnivore’s Dilemma, In Defense of Food.  Her chronicle of our food systems is informative, disturbing and destined to make you think very hard before filling the first shopping trolley after you’ve finished reading.
Topics examined in a no-fuss simple fact manner include factory farming, GM, pesticide and herbcide usage, factory processing and preservation, use of hormones and antibiotics in meat production, environmental and globalisation impacts, then Loughnan engages in an examination of Australia’s food future.
Her final paragraph entreats readers to act practically.  ‘We can grow or own food… visit a farmers’ market or join a community supported agriculture scheme…’ There is a farmers’ market trading this weekend somewhere near you!  Check Find A Market.  https://www.foodshock.com.au
Contact:  For more information, please contact:  Exisle Publishing 02 4998 3327

VICTORIA GETS MARKET SHOPPERS APP
Release Date: 2012-09-25
Find your nearest accredited farmers’ market and producers and keep updated all in the new VFMA Farmers’ Markets iPhone app, NOW AVAILABLE!
Featuring market listings by region and name and including venue information and maps, you can search for a list of producers attending each market.  Search for producers by name, category or product and set handy alerts so that you never miss your local market again!
DOWNLOAD:  https://itunes.apple.com/au/app/farmrsmarkts/id527109449?mt=8
Support URL:  www.lambdasoftware.com.au
Contact:  For more information, please contact:  Kath Clarke, VFMA  T 03 9416 2090

2012 DELICIOUS MAGAZINE – ‘BEST FARMERS’ MARKET’ GOES to… GASWORKS in ALBERT PARK
Release Date: 2012-07-20
Congratulations to GASWORKS FARMERS MARKET in Albert Park, Melbourne, winner of the BEST FARMERS’ MARKET at the 2012 delicious.  Produce Awards.  Pop down on Saturday 21 July to meet the proud producers and market manager Miranda Sharp.
Congratulations too to all the other Produce Awards winners, many of whom sell regularly in farmers’ markets across Australia!
Further details on the awards as well as the 2012 winners are at  www.deliciousproduceawards.com.au
Contact:  For more information, please contact:  Lucy Allon  Tel:  02 8062 2043  Fax:  02 8062 2465  lucy@lucyallon.com.au

USA FARMERS’ MARKET NUTRITION PROGRAMS – REPORT by SARAH ROBINS
Release Date: 2012-03-04
Sarah Robins from the VFMA last year visited America to research various nutrition programs operated in association with farmers’ markets.  The work was supported by the UK-based Geoffrey Roberts Foundation.  Her report is available at www.geoffreyrobertsaward.com/?attachment_id=70
Contact:  For more information, please contact:  Sarah Robins  E: seasonalregional@gmail.com

2012 AUSTRALIAN YEAR OF THE FARMER
Release Date: 2011-10-12
The Governor General Her Excellency Quentin Bryce today launched the 2012 Australian Year of the Farmer… a year focussed on celebrating hardworking primary producers who grow food and feed our nation, vital agricultural enterprises that underpin communities Australia-wide.
In passing, the Governor General highlighted the vital network of farmers’ markets that connect producers and consumers, delivering farm fresh food from paddock to plate.

DELICIOUS 2011 PRODUCE AWARD GOES TO….
Release Date: 2011-08-02
EVELEIGH FARMERS MARKET!
Congratulations to the Eveleigh team – chosen ‘Outstanding Farmers Market’ at the 2011 Delicious Produce Awards.
Especially pleasing was to see several of the Eveleigh stallholders also nominated as finalists in these prestigious awards.
Eveleigh Farmers Market
Every Saturday 8am – 1pm
243 Wilson Street, Redfern  (at Carriageworks complex)
Contact:  For more information, please contact: Ariana Aljinovic  T:  02 9209 4163

PRODUCERS FEATURE IN NEW COOKBOOK
Release Date: 2011-07-19
FROM PADDOCK TO PLATE (ABC Books) showcases some of Australia’s farmers market producers in this new A-Z providoring companion by Louise Fitzroy.  Taste the true flavours of fresh home grown produce from almonds to yabbies as she takes you into the heart and livelihoods of our Australian farmers.  Discover where to find local produce in your region, how to grow, prepare and cook with it.
Contact:  For more information, please contact:  Louise Fitzroy  0421 578 969

AUSTRALIA’S FARMERS MARKETS BOOSTED BY UK FELLOWSHIP
Release Date: 2011-05-19
Congratutalions to Sarah Robins, Marketing and Communications Manager of the Victorian Farmers’ Markets Association, the winner of the prestigious 2011 Geoffrey Roberts Award.
Sarah will travel to the USA to research food security programs run in conjunction with farmers’ markets, notably the WIC coupon program that in 2009 benefited more than two million Americans.  Her intention is to foster the introduction of a food coupon welfare scheme in Victoria.
Contact:  For more information, please contact:  Sarah Robins  seasonalregional@gmail.com

VICTORIAN FARMERS MARKETS HEADED TO NEW STRENGTHS
Release Date: 2011-05-10
The Victorian Government has announced the allocation of $2 million over four years to support the sustainable continued growth of farmers’ markets.
Victorian research conducted by VFMA indicates market shoppers pend on averge $70 per week.  With 35,000 estimated as regular shoppers at farmers’ markets across the state the economic benefit tallies an injection of $2million per week to host communities.
What’s more, 24% of households surveyed shop at farmers’ market at least once a month… and appetites are growing!  All good news for the farmers’ market movement.  For more see the media release attached…
Contact:  For more information, please contact:  sarah@vicfarmersmarkets.org.au  0410 668 667

DELICIOUS PRODUCE AWARDS 2011 Nominations
Release Date: 2011-02-07
Nominate your favourite farmers’ market for the coveted 2011 Delicious Produce Award for the Best Farmers’ Market in Australia! Nominations close 5pm Friday 20 May 2011.  Finalists will be announced in the July edition.
Nomination Form Attached
Contact:  For more information, please contact:  Lucy Allon 0419 299 862 or lucy@lucyallon.com.au

SUPPORT QUEENSLAND FARMERS
Release Date: 2011-01-24
A new website has been established to link Queensland farmers with food retailers and restaurants… a practical endeavour intended to deliver direct response links to flood affected and other food producers.  Read on…then ACT!!
MEDIA RELEASE – Tuesday 20 January 2011
Restaurateurs and Retail go online to support Qld Farmers
Amid the recent flood devastation in Queensland a motivated group of business people, primary producers and restaurateurs with the support of the Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation (DEEDI), have set up a website  www.supportQLDproducers.net to allow retailers, wholesalers and growers of local Queensland produce the opportunity to let consumers and potential stockists know how they can still access their products despite the recent devastation.
Support QLD Producers has been set up as a not-for-profit organisation to provide a forum for industry to get the message out that they are still operating and to let Australia know what they have to offer and where it is available.  Stuart Ostle from award-winning Granite Belt winery Ballandean Estate is one of the central figures behind this initiative, and comments “Australians know that farmers and other primary producers are the backbone of many regional communities, and that so many of them have been dramatically affected by the floods, while many more have lost everything.”
“However it is important that we realise that there still are a great number of producers that are still operating, even if at a reduced level, and they still have products to sell.”
“We also want to give the producers that have lost everything, including their immediate market, a place to start once they get back up and running.”
The last few weeks have seen many Australians prepared to chip in and help out to get Queensland up and running, so the next time you are wondering “How can I help?” make sure you choose Queensland grown and help get the producers back on their feet.
Contact:  For all inquiries please contact:  Stuart Ostle  e: info@supportqldproducers.net   m: 0420921934

DON’T MISS THIS MOVIE… FOOD INC
Release Date: 2010-05-24
This compelling examination of USA factory farming is recommended to everyone concerned about the source of their food.  Commentators include Eric Schlosser Fast Food Nation and Michael Pollan Omnivore’s Dilemma and In Defense of Food.

3rd National Farmers’ Markets Conference MARKET GROWTH – Farmers’ Markets: One Decade On
Release Date: 2009-06-01
Ten years ago there were no farmers’ markets in Victoria; today they number over 60 across the State and approximately 120 in Australia.  With solid foundations now established, the Victorian Farmers’ Market…

The Making of a Sustainable Farmers’ Market This new DVD shows you why you need a farmers’ market in your community and how to do it!
Release Date: 2008-10-22
This entertaining and information-rich program shows how to build the foundations for a successful and sustainable farmers’ market in either an urban or rural community, by examining the experiences of the…

Farmers’ Market New Zealand Inc Conference 30 May – 1 June 2008
Release Date: 2008-03-19
It is that time again, two years after Farmers’ Markets NZ held it’s first inaugural conference we will be hosting delegates from over 40 markets members, Invercargill to Keri Keri for another two days of…

A case study of two markets on the Mid-North Coast of New South Wales
Release Date: 2007-07-24
Researcher Gabi Brie has recently completed a thesis on Farmers’ Markets and the benefits they provide for small family farms.  Gabi’s research has been conducted on the mid north coast of New South Wales….

Farmers’ Markets and the benefits of participation for small family farms
A case study of two markets on the Mid-North Coast of New South Wales
Release Date: 2007-07-24
Researcher Gabi Brie has recently completed a thesis on Farmers’ Markets and the benefits they provide for small family farms.  Gabi’s research has been conducted on the mid north coast of New South Wales….

Fresh Stamps by the Kilo!
Release Date: 2007-07-24
From wedges of soft cheese, plump bananas and glistening fresh fish to leafy greens, crispy radishes and nuggety spuds, Australia Post’s latest stamp release is a visual feast.

BOOK REVIEW:  THE BIG FAT CONSPIRACY THE BIG FAT CONSPIRACY – An important new book by respected health writer, Melissa Sweet.  Published by ABC Books.
Release Date: 2007-06-20
Obesity is on everyone’s lips – or so it seems in Australia where too many eat too much of the wrong foods and tip the scales at unhealthy levels.  Author Melissa Sweet adopts a pragmatic self-help approach to the…

GUIDE TO FARMERS’ MARKETS IN AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND Order Form
Release Date: 2006-11-19
GET YOUR COPY OF THE ABSOLUTELY ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO FARMERS’ MARKETS IN AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND
Over 100 markets, meet the market heroes, discover farm fresh local and seasonal food, plus 100 market fresh…

Major Funding for Victorian Farmers’ Markets Media Release Wednesday 8 November 2006 For Immediate Release
Release Date: 2006-11-08
The Minister for Agriculture, Bob Cameron, announced on Monday that a re-elected Labor Government will provide $2 million to support farmers’ markets as a community based option for farmers to deliver their…

Victorian Farmers Market Association AGM
Release Date: 2006-10-04
The Victorian Farmers’ Market Association (VFMA) is holding an Annual General Meeting on Tuesday 24 October 2006 at 11am at Mayor’s Room (1st Floor), Hawthorn Town Hall, 360 Burwood Road, Hawthorn.  A draft…

VICTORIAN FARMERS MARKET ASSOCIATION CHARTER
Release Date: 2006-10-04
At the recent VFMA workshops (held with the assistance of the Victorian Department of Primary Industries) feedback was collected about the Charter from interested growers, producers and market managers associated…

FarmBis Targeted Industry Initiatives
Release Date: 2006-08-13
FarmBis wants to hear from Victorian primary industry groups that are interested in a matching grant to undertake a project related to encouraging or supporting ongoing training in their industry or locality….

FarmBis subsidised training
Release Date: 2006-08-13
FarmBis provides the opportunity for primary producers to improve their management skills.
FarmBis allows you to access specialist training at subsidised rates.  This includes trainers coming to you, to…

DECLARATION OF ADELAIDE ON THE FUTURE OF FOOD
Release Date: 2005-10-27
Today key personalities participating in the inaugural Adelaide Food Summit on The Future of Food released a declaration expressing their deep concerns about the future of food and agriculture in Australia, and…

Farmers’ markets strengthening rural communities
Release Date: 2005-09-05
Farmers’ markets have the potential to underpin broader economic and agricultural sustainability in regional Australia, Parliamentary Secretary for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Senator Richard Colbeck said…

MARKET POWER IGNITES REAL FOOD REVOLUTION
Release Date: 2005-09-05
The 2nd National Australian Farmers’ Markets Conference, held at the Lake Hume Resort in Albury Wodonga on 28 & 29 August, 2005 has been heralded a success.  Over 150 delegates attended the two-day…

Regional Food Processing Grants Grants from $15,000-$200,000 are now available for primary producers and food processors in rural and regional Australia
Release Date: 2005-09-05
The Australian Government is investing in the future of regional Australia and our food industry through the new Food Processing in Regional Australia Program.  Under the program, competitive grants of…

A BIG IDEA Article from the Australian Financial Review BOSS Magazine
Release Date: 2005-03-15
If you don’t read the Australian Financial Review BOSS magazine you won’t be aware that their fifth birthday issue (March 2005) was devoted to the ‘101’ Big Ideas of the future that will change your life and shape…

2nd Farmers’ Markets Conference
Release Date: 2005-03-05
The second national Farmers’ Market Conference is an event not to be missed – so book now to avoid disappointment!

Food For Thought!  An excerpt from “PLENTY: Digressions on Food” by Gay Bilson, published by Penguin Lantern, RRP$ 49.95  Available 1 November 2004
Release Date: 2004-10-21
The jubilant popularity of farmers’ markets surely points to active, if inarticulate, agreement about connection with produce by large groups of people, although this popularity has been partly hijacked and…

FARMERS’ MARKETS POWER PROVED DPI Victoria Report
Release Date: 2004-08-31
Research undertaken by the Victorian Department of Primary Industry estimates that shoppers at Australian farmers’ markets are spending approximately $40 million a year on fresh food and produce purchased…

Media Hype Correction to an article which appeared in The Land’s Farming Small Areas magazine (May 2004)
Release Date: 2004-05-28
Farmers’ Markets have received terrific support from the media… but occasionally little glitches do occur.  The Land Farming Small Areas magazine (May 2004) article ‘Markets’ Pace’ is another good news story…

AFMA’s Contribution to Sustainable Cities
Release Date: 2004-02-11
The House of Representatives Standing Committee on Environment and Heritage enquiry into Sustainable Cities 2025 last week invited AFMA, represented by Chair Jane Adams, to present its view on the role and…

Farmers’ Market Research Tourism benefits derived from farmers’ markets
Release Date: 2004-01-11
IDENTIFYING THE POTENTIAL TOURISM BENEFITS OF FARMERS’ MARKET VISITATION: AN ANALYSIS OF THE GIPPSLAND FARMERS’ MARKET VISITOR
Report prepared by Lisa Melsen

An apple a day… An extract from the Australian Financial Review, 6 December 2003
Release Date: 2003-12-06
ALP leader Latham is authentic at a time when the quest for authenticity can be seen in shoe shops, in sea-change destinations, in reality television shows, in comedy series, in counselling sessions, career…

National Farmers’ Market Conference Proceedings
Release Date: 2003-07-17
AUSTRALIAN FARMERS’ MARKET CONFERENCE PROCEEDINGS

Farm Fresh Australian House & Garden magazine.  June 2003
Release Date: 2003-06-01
A big smile and a good old country yarn is what you’ll find at the farmers’ markets… and the food doesn’t come any fresher, writes Peter Salhani
Fruit and veg, kids and coffee, early…

Market Power Cuisine Magazine.  May 2003
Release Date: 2003-05-01
Farmers’ markets are now a key link in the food chain.  Jane Adams has been shopping around for this update.
Western Australian chef Dave Allen is a keen supporter of farmers’ markets.  Since his…

Market Power Comes of Age AFMA Media Release.  December 2002
Release Date: 2003-02-06
The inaugural Farmers Markets Conference convenes and realises the power of the market.
Australia’s thriving Farmers’ Market movement has taken another major step forward with the…