Five great reasons to visit the Golden Plains Farmer’s market

TO help kick start the New Year, the Golden Plains Farmers’ Market is set to return to its regular location at High and Milton Streets.

Running from Saturday, 6 February from 8.30am to 12:.0pm, the market offers a welcoming space for producers, farmers, residents and tourists alike to meet, chat and exchange.

With a variety of products and services available, here’s a sample of just a few of the great stallholders to look out for on the day.

 

Moorabool Valley Wildflowers

Now a hallmark of the market, Moorabool Valley Wildflower owner John Tantau was one of the site’s first stallholders.

With a focus on native and durable florals, Mr Tantau grows and hand picks his specialist variety from his and his wife’s 30-acre farm at She Oaks.

In addition to retailing monthly at the market, Moorabool Valley Wildflower’s also offer wholesale and custom selections for special occasions and weddings.

Market goers are encouraged to go early if they’re hoping for a flower or a bunch as Mr Tantau’s stock is known to sell out quickly.

 

Simply Fi Handbags

Bannockburn’s Fiona Round is known for her creativity and sewing skills both of which she channels into her designs for her small business, Simply Fi Handbags.

Available in a range of styles including purses, clutches, wallets, lipstick and glasses cases, foldable carry bags, produce bags and totes, there’s a Simply Fi bag for any occasion.

Her signature Poppy Bags are foldable carry bags made out of a water and stain resistant polyester canvas and are strong, durable and an eco-friendly alternative to disposable bags.

The produce bags created with the environment in mind, using a strong polyester netting that is washable and reusable, Ms Round aims to encourage reduced use of throw away plastic and to think about sustainable options.

 

ShortHive Honey

Keeping it in the family, the Broomfield’s have been looking after bees and making honey for over 50 years.

A skill passed down generations, Greg Broomfield learned the art of honey production from his father and now leads ShortHive Honey production with help from his wife Corrina, their children Robyn and Tom, and Tom’s wife Rachel.

Not only do they produce quality honey, the family business also offers a variety of flavours including salted, espresso, cacao and chilli which can be used to infuse a meal or beverage with a touch of sweetness.

With everything from the design to the flavour infusions completed by hand, the Broomfields are confident the quality of their product will speak for itself.

In addition to browsing the range, ShortHive also offers free tastings of their liquid gold at their stall, dependant on current COVID-19 restrictions.

 

Leighgrove Olives

Located at Inverleigh, Leighgrove Olives owners Yvonne and Grant White run their 4500-tree grove that produces delicious olive types and fine quality extra virgin olive oil.

Selling at the Farmers’ Market since it began in 2009, Leighgrove Olives have consistently offered market goers a product that sets itself apart from olive oil found in the supermarket.

Varieties include Barnea, Correggiola, Frantoio and Kalamata which are grown using modern and environmentally responsible practices.

Within the specialty olive oil range, market goers can expect flavours to suit differing tastes and uses as well as extra virgin olive oil tapenade, relish, olive salt, and skincare products.

 

Wes Eggs

Born from a dream of one day building his own free range egg farm, 30 years later Wes Humpage, his wife Mandy and his family

now run the successful WesEggs.

Offering quality eggs from pasture raised chickens that are “grain fed and free to roam”, Mr Humpage utilises modern technology and ethical practices to ensure the best product every time.

Located at Maude, the team from WesEggs stock a range of supermarkets, delis and cafes around the region as well as appearing at the Golden Plains Farmers’ and twilight markets.