New farmers market offers best of Witchcliffe

A new farmers market launching in Witchcliffe aims to showcase the stunning array of fresh produce from the region as well as celebrate the town’s artists, entertainers and community spirit.

Kicking off this Sunday October 27, the Witchcliffe Farmers Market will be held at the Druids Hall and adjacent grassed area, and will run once a month on a Sunday (9am to 12pm) through to March for a trial period, with a view to extending and increasing frequency as popularity grows.

Founder and coordinator Freya Brice said the idea stemmed from the desire to open the world of farmers markets to those in the south of the region.

“I’ve been living in Augusta for some time after living around Margaret River for years, and found a huge gap in the existing market for anything on offer south of Margaret river for locals,” she said. “I want to bring something to the community that promotes a healthy sustainable way of living, is fun, and brings us all together.

Freya said the market would offer local fresh produce, pasture raised eggs, organic meat, sourdough, local artisans, live music and a place to hang out.

“We have it all! You will want to hang around all day for the community vibe,” she promised. “Little Hand Dumplings will be taking over the hall kitchen serving up their delicious signature dishes, while Little Sip will be serving up coffee outside all season long.

“I have chosen the stall holders with a lot of care, as an extension of my ethics and beliefs on sustainability and connecting people to their food and with their community.”

Freya said the lineup of growers included Margaret River Organic Farmer, Natural Farming Alliance and Plumo, “all who have a huge aspect within their business about education around food and connecting people to their food and where it comes from”.

“We will have fresh cut flowers from Deepdene Flower Farm, bread from Arturo, Argentinian sweets from Rose Delight, fermented goods from Foleys Frothing Fermentations, tea from Margaret River Chai Company, a selection of small batch artisans including soap, skincare, upcycled clothing, vintage clothing, art, jewellery and ceramics.

“We have also partnered with Party Wave Events, who will be bringing the music and entertainment aspect to the markets as well.”

Freya said while the roster was full, a waitlist was available for other producers and creatives, and she expected demand to grow as the community embraced the new market.

“The best help is to come down and support these amazing businesses and your local community and spread the word.

“Come and enjoy our market and everything else Witchy has to offer, as it’s such a buzzing little town… there are lots of great cafes, restaurants, wineries and shops to explore!

For more, visit @witchcliffefarmersmarket on instagram. To join the stallholder waitlist, email witchcliffefarmersmarket@gmail.com