Murwillumbah Farmers’ Market marks 15 years of growth, community and sustainability

THE Murwillumbah Farmers’ Market will celebrate its 15th anniversary later this month, marking a milestone for a community institution that has grown from humble beginnings into a weekly hub for local producers and residents.

What began as a small, uncertain initiative has evolved into a cornerstone of the region’s food culture, while staying true to its founding purpose.

“When the market first started in 2011, it had only 11 stalls and the future looked uncertain,” market manager Kaisa Kilponen said.

“However, over the last 15 years it has grown to include nearly 50 dedicated local farmers and producers who come along every week.”

Despite that growth, Kilponen said the ethos behind the market has remained unchanged.

“Our farmers and producers pride themselves on their produce,” she said.

 

“From its creation, the market’s vision has been simple, to ensure that the local community has access to fresh, seasonal produce on a weekly basis.

“The market will continue to live and breathe these values so future generations can also experience that joy.”

Held at the Murwillumbah Showground with views of Wollumbin, the market has become a regular midweek meeting point for locals and visitors.

“For many members of our community, the markets have become a way of life and we’re grateful to offer a space for locals to connect with their farmers, producers, food vendors and with each other,” she said.

Sustainability has also been a focus, with the market winning the community category at Tweed Shire Council’s 2023 Tweed Sustainability Awards.

 

“As far as we know, we’re Tweed Shire’s only market with a washing station,” Kilponen said.

“This has meant that we have been able to significantly reduce the amount of waste by washing the cups, plates and cutlery used every week.”

The market also received the Reader’s Choice Award for Outstanding Farmers Market at the 2023 delicious. Harvey Norman Produce Awards.

Several original stallholders are still trading, including Everest Farm, Jumping Red Ant, Silva Lining Organics, Caldera Honey and Costanzo Apples.

Looking ahead, the anniversary celebrations will include a kids’ program, birthday treats and live music at the April 15 market.

“We’re thrilled to announce that local world music artist Murray Kyle will be playing at our birthday market, alongside local singer-songwriter Josh Lovegrove,” Kilponen said.

 

She said some elements of the program would remain a surprise.

“Our last big celebration was the market’s 10th birthday, and there was a flash mob held during one of our previous special occasions as well,” she said.

“You never know what might happen on the birthday.”

As the market enters its next chapter, Kilponen said the focus remains on community and local food.

“The market’s vision is to continue to provide space for the community to connect with our local farmers and producers every week,” she said.

“This is the most meaningful exchange, food from our families to yours.”

The Murwillumbah Farmers’ Market anniversary celebration will be held on April 15.