Whitsunday Farmers' Markets

Shane Stanley is a man on a mission - and he needs your help. He wants to do away with the "poor farmers" label that has been tagged to  landholders for the better part of the decade by helping create a farmers market for the Whitsundays.

Mr Stanley, who helped establish the popular Noosa farmers' market, is leading a spirited group of locals who came together one year ago with this inspiring vision.

Claire Dulieu, project manager with Enterprise Whitsundays, said local growers had supported the concept of a farmers' market from the outset.

“A farmers market is a shop front for producers – they can try new things –and it will also help them connect with one another. A farmers' market will also really contribute to the Whitsundays becoming known as a great fresh produce region, which will be good for tourism.”

A crowd of more than 100 were invited to the launch of the farmers' market survey at Whitsunday Gold Coffee Plantation last Wednesday where they  were treated to fresh, local produce by businesses who bear the prestigious Made in the Whitsundays logo.

Now, both residents and farmers are being asked for their opinions through a survey, which is being conducted right across the region.

“We have a lot of talented people in the region that we need to show off and a farmers' market will really enhance our food culture in the region.

“The survey that we have launched will help to shape the farmers' market – we are only going to do it once and we have to do it right - and we look forward to it becoming a reality.”

Consultant Shane Stanley, who runs three successful farmers' markets in Queensland through his company Queensland Farmers Markets, said the project would not happen without the support of consumers and producers.

“We are starting something very special and the enthusiasm here has been second to none. The passion is certainly here and it’s all moving along very  nicely,” he said.

He said a farmers'  market was about supporting the many growers in the region.

“Farmers can make a good living from it – it’s about adding another dimension to what they are already doing. If we can support our own industries, everything will grow from there.”