Bumper crop of donations

By Lachlan Ellis

A not-for-profit, volunteer-run market has hit a major milestone, raising $50,000 for local community organisations.

The Ballan Farmers Market, which runs on the second Saturday every month at the grounds of St Paul’s Uniting Church, announced it had reached the milestone last week.

President of the Market, Jacqui Sfetcopolous, said she was thrilled by the achievement, and praised the fantastic team of volunteers for making it possible.

“We’ve donated to plenty of groups over the years, including the Scouts, Ballan Hospital, and the Ballan Football Netball Club. The two local primary schools have received donations over the years too, so it’s sort of been to most of the community groups,” Ms Sfetcopolous told the Moorabool News.

“We’re so proud of our Farmers Market, which has been running since 2011. We’re a smaller market but we have great selection of local producers and makers who have been attending for years and have a strong following.”

One of the most recent donations by the Ballan Farmers Market was $3000 for the 1st Ballan Scouts, for landscaping and new equipment for their new Scout Hall.

The success of the market means additional volunteers are needed now more than ever.

“If you’re new to the town or have an interest or new ideas for the market we would welcome you to get involved and join in. Running the market is a breeze when we have the volunteers and we ask for very little time,” Ms Sfetcopolous said.

Recently joined volunteer Natalie Byers has enjoyed helping out, and encouraged others to be part of what is an inclusive community event.

“It’s a great atmosphere, very family friendly.  The time goes quickly as it’s only one hour on a Saturday once a month on market day. I get to enjoy the market and browse around,” Ms Byers said.

The Ballan Market Annual General Meeting will be held after their next market finishes on Saturday 9 September at 1:15pm. The AGM is open to all members of the community including volunteers and stall holders, and is seeking new members and committee nominations.

For more information, contact [email protected], or visit the Ballan Farmers Market Facebook page.