MARKET POWER IGNITES REAL FOOD REVOLUTION

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 conference that examined the growth and benefits of farmers' markets to both primary producers and consumers, and the challenges facing communities and market managers seeking to establish sustainable markets.

The Conference was addressed by Senator Richard Colbeck, Parliamentary Secretary for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry who indicated government support could be made available to assist communities establishing farmers' markets via various grant schemes.

Agricultural researcher Max Coster presented the first substantive Australian research into farmers' markets that highlights the myriad benefits to farmers participating regularly in farmers' markets. He highlighted the positive 'incubation' effect on business growth, the need for a self-regulated quality assurance program, and for training programs for market managers. His study estimates an annual turnover in Australian farmers' markets of $40m with an economic impact of $80m across the host communities.

International keynote speaker Mark Winne's address underpinned the realisation that farmers' markets are part of a vital need to facilitate the growth of local food systems. He also called for the introduction of a food nutrition coupon program to be run in conjunction with Australian farmers' markets.

A variety of primary producers outlined the positive role that farmers' markets have played in their business development. These included Marilyn Lanyon, Simply Green Tomatoes (Boort, Victoria) now exporting to 19 countries; Tim Hansen Mandagery Creek Farm Venison (Orange, NSW) whose business structure is premised on direct farm sales and attracts a 60% premium over the current market price for venison; and Ricardoes Tomatoes (Port Macquarie, NSW) that now operates 7000-square metre hydroponic greenhouse.

Workshop sessions examined the structure and benefits of CSA Farms (community supported agriculture) and community gardens, and how to establish vital Food Security projects.

Other workshop topics addressed the challenges facing market managers, the increased need for local government support in the vital establishment phase, and the growing demand of organic and heirloom foods at farmers' markets.

The conference was generously sponsored by RIRDC, FRRR, ANZ, DAFF, DPI Victoria, DSRD, Tourism NSW, Telstra Countrywide, Rural Press, Brown Brothers, Destination Albury Wodonga, NSW Food Authority, Freeman McMurrick, Contact Printing and the Digger's Seeds Club.