To market to market
Winter markets. Think hearty veg, cuts of meat to slow roast over a chilly afternoon then wash down with a rich, earthy red. Or perhaps a platter of local cheeses, gooey golden honey, sweet cakes, or a jar of fruity jam to spread on a loaf of crusty handmade bread.
Want to eat well? You've come to the right place. Here's our round up of the best local markets.
Heathcote on Show
This beauty only happens once a year when Heathcote, one of Australia's top winemaking destinations, comes alive for Queen's Birthday long weekend with its annual food, wine and entertainment festival, Heathcote on Show.
Head to Barrack Reserve this Saturday 8 June for the Heathcote Town Festival where you'll find a market showcasing great local cuisine, producers, farmers and samples from many of the best local winemakers.
When: Saturday 8 June 10am – 3pm
The market at Heathcote on Show 2018 Images: Heathcote on Show
Bendigo Community Farmers' Market
High quality, freshly harvested in-season produce direct from the farmers and producers of the Bendigo region. From organic apples to chocolate, heavenly chai to creamy avocados (in season) this market has it all. Sample the best from local legends like Dr Scroll, Goldfields Farmhouse Cheese, Holy Goat Cheese and The Good Loaf Sourdough Bakery.
When: Second Saturday of the month 9 am - 1pm. Sidney Myer Place AND every fourth Thursday of the month (except December) in the Hargreaves Mall 3 pm – 6 pm from May to August.
Roasted chestnuts and fresh citrus at Bendigo Community Farmers' Market. Images: Bendigo Community Farmers' Market
Castlemaine Farmers' Market
Meet the finest producers of the Mount Alexander Shire and beyond and choose from exceptional cheeses and meats and olive oils, crisp apples and stone fruit from Harcourt and so much more. Try award winning smoked fish from the Bellarine Smoked Fish Co, handcrafted charcuterie from Bundarra Berkshires and don't miss the raffle for a chance to win a hamper of delicious produce from stallholders.
When: First Sunday of every month (except January) 9 am - 1 pm, in the carpark next to Victory Park, Forest Street, Castlemaine.
Making the market more sustainable, Mount Alexander Sustainability Group mucks in to wash dishes rather than send rubbish to landfill. Pretty local market garlic. Images: Castlemaine Farmers' Market
Maldon Market
A monthly growers and makers market held in historic Maldon, Australia's first notable town and worth a trip in itself. Enjoy gourmet food, great coffee and home grown goodies and relax in the beautiful gardens. Sweet lovers will be in heaven with the irresistible Bendigo Brittle and local gold from Collins Honey.
When: Second Sunday of each month (that's this Sunday!) in Fountain Street, Maldon, from 9am - 2pm.
Minimising plastic and waste at Maldon Market and delicious Bendigo Brittle. Images: Maldon Market
PepperGreen Farm Community Market
Set on a historic significant, two hectare site close to the heart of Bendigo, PepperGreen Farm is a not-for-profit social enterprise providing meaningful employment and training to people with disability and/or experiencing disadvantage. Their monthly Saturday market is a chance to sample the best in hand grown and handmade from the Central Victorian region.
When: Once a month from 10am – 2pm visit them on Facebook for dates.
Stallholders at Peppercorn Farms. Images: Peppercorn Farms
More…..
Talbot Farmers Market
Enjoy the vibrant village atmosphere as the tiny town of Talbot (pop.350) comes alive with over 80 regional produce and product stalls.
When: Third Sunday of the month in the Heritage precinct Talbot.
Wesley Hill Market
A favourite gathering spot for locals and a great chance to do the weekly shop, enjoy a coffee, pick up plants, a present or even a second hand treasure.
When: Every Saturday from 7.30am –1pm Duke Street (Pyrenees Highway) and Van Heurck Street, Castlemaine.
Castlemaine Artists' Market
Wander over 70 stalls and fall in love with handmade and handcrafted works from local, independent artists, designers and makers, along with live music, performance and delicious food.
When: First Sunday of the month (coincides with the Castlemaine Farmers' Market), 9am - 2pm at Western Reserve, Castlemaine (Cnr Wheeler and Forest Streets)
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