Farmers' markets strengthening rural communities

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 today.

Senator Colbeck was launching a new report form the Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation (RIRDC) titled New Generation Farmers' Markets in Rural Communities, at the 2nd Australian Farmers' Market Association Conference in Albury.

The report shows farmers' markets are not only a win for those involved in the markets, but also for local retailers, processors and restaurateurs.

Senator Colbeck said farmers' markets have an energising effect on both the small farms that participate and their associated rural communities, fuelled by a higher level of consumer interest in local produce and a willingness to support the local farming community.

"That's certainly been the case in my home state of Tasmania, where increased awareness about the importance of supporting local produce through the Fair Dinkum Food Campaign has seen a surge in the popularity of farmers' markets," he said. "Markets cultivate direct interaction between growers and consumers, creating fertile ground for new product innovation."

Senator Colbeck said there were many well-managed farmers' markets.

"High priority should be given to studying the best available practice in managing farmers' markets,'' he said. "This research will then be able to inform the continuing expansion and development of farmers' markets in Australia"

The report found farmers' markets:

• are complementary to existing businesses

• effectively showcase local produce and help educate customers about local foods

• provide an opportunity for radical change in production and marketing

• provide a forum for communities interested in fresh food, its source, and ideas for new products

• provide an opportunity for business and personal growth

• require a high level of passion, imagination, perseverance and skill by the market manager to be successful.

Copies of most RIRDC reports can be downloaded free of charge from the RIRDC website www.rirdc.gov.au, which has more than 1200 research reports on a wide range of rural industries. Hard copies can be purchased online or by phone (02) 6272 4819 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              (02) 6272 4819      end_of_the_skype_highlighting. A free publication catalogue is also available.