Docklands’ new farmers market kicks off the year with a bang

Since starting in December last year, the Docklands Farmers’ Market has quickly become a community favourite, with Lord Mayor Nick Reece visiting its latest event on March 2.

The market is a vibrant community event held on the first Sunday of every month at NewQuay Promenade in Docklands, featuring more than 35 stallholders offering fresh, seasonal produce from local Victorian farmers and food producers.

Market manager Tim Walsh said that despite having to cancel the February market due to extreme heat, he was excited for the market to continue building its presence within the community.

“Our market also educates the community and plays a crucial role in supporting small-scale producers, providing opportunities for entrepreneurship, and strengthening regional and local economies,” he said.

Docklands Farmers’ Market is a Victorian Farmers’ Market Association (VFMA)-accredited market supporting local farmers and food producers, with more than 35 stallholders selling fresh, seasonal Victorian produce.

Visitors can find a variety of items, including fruit, vegetables, meat, poultry, and dairy products. There are also treats for pets, beverages, and ready-to-eat food options made from Victorian produce.

Mr Walsh said that one of the biggest drawcards of the market was that customers were buying directly from the source.

“When you purchase food from a farmers' market, you are purchasing from a person or family who has direct involvement in the production of the food you are taking home,” he said.

“They can tell you about the produce, where it is grown, how it is grown, and how fresh it is. Many fruit and vegetables at the markets are picked specifically for that market.”

It’s also a great way to support the local economy, according to Mr Walsh, who noted that the money paid for produce goes straight to the producer or farmer.

Additionally, due to the short supply chain, farmers' markets reduce the carbon footprint associated with transporting goods.

“Supermarkets may offer organic options, but the overall environmental impact is typically higher due to longer supply chains and more extensive packaging,” he said.

The Docklands Farmers' Market – an initiative of the Docklands Chamber of Commerce and supported by the City of Melbourne – is held on the first Sunday of every month from 8am to 12.30pm along NewQuay Promenade. The next market will be held on Sunday, April 6.