Sydney’s newest farmers market kicks off

Renzo has heard more than a few people claim farmers markets are a fad - or a short term protest against supermarket arrogance.

They’re wrong. Very wrong.

Saturday December 13 saw Sydney’s newest Farmer’s Market debut - in a location seemingly purpose-built, a covered open-sided workshop used as a carpark during the week, adjacent to the Carriage Works Theatre complex in the old Eveleigh railway workshops near Redfern.

Three hours after its 8am opening Eveleigh Market was packed with shoppers - and a number of stands, including artisan bakery Sonoma and at least one coffee brewer - had the ‘sold out’ signs up with a couple of hours official trading to go.

Inner city Sydney now has a several regular farmers markets, including Pyrmont, North Sydney and Kirribilli. But an accelerating commitment by supermarket giants Woolworths and Coles to reduce the range of products and brands they carry in-store, together with a burgeoning if often misplaced, demand for organic foods, are powering a boom season for artisan food producers, farmers and others who enjoy connecting with customers more than being squeezed by supermarket chain buyers.

The Eveleigh Farmers Market is, judging by Saturday’s crowds, now certain to become a regular event in 2009, with next event already scheduled for February 28.

While stilt walkers, Santa Claus and Aboriginal performers may have kept the children entertained, it was obvious the majority were there to shop or eat.

A central feature was a ‘long table’ where chef Hugh Wennebourne cooked up a Christmas Brunch - Taralga Heritage pork spit-roasted and served with homemade apple sauce and ‘Iggy’s famous bread’. For a modest $10 fee.

A dozen or so New South Wales boutique wineries sampled their latest offer (a surprising number of Pinot Gris’ were up for tasting), there were chocolates and baked goods aimed at Christmas shoppers, an underwhelming range of fresh produce, (one area where the organsiers will doubtlessly do better next time), and several suppliers of organic or artisan chicken, lamb and smallgoods had tables.

The beauty of farmers’ markets is the opportunity to see brands you’ve never heard of, and - better still - taste test their offer. Much cheese, chocolate (Gumnut, you’re the best!), olive oil, spreads, nuts, relishes - and even fresh onion were there for the adventurous.

Eveleigh Market is a 10 minute walk from Redfern Station, a five minute walk from the university car parks, and an ideal location for such a market, essentially weather-proof and with plenty of room to relax during a break from spending.

Roll on February 28!

Source (with photos) : www.foodweek.com.au/main-features-page.aspx?articleType=ArticleView&articleId=3060