Thursday, June 8, 2017

To Market, To Market, To Buy A...


Just under an hour’s drive North West of Sydney, is a gem of a farmers market. The Richmond Good Food Market operates every Saturday from 8am to 1pm in Richmond Park, as this family business opens its floodgates for farmers, tourists and locals in the scenic Hawkesbury area.  

Now we all know farmers markets usually sell extortionately overpriced food but this little beauty is about cost efficiency to sustain local businesses. Not only are they supporting local farms, but you can chat with the farmers about how the food is raised, including chemical (and additive) free produce. The market website claims their prices are cheaper than Woolworths and Coles which is a nice little, penny pinching bonus.

Every tomato, carrot, bunch of flowers or apricot (markets always over-excel on apricots, for some fabulous reason) that you purchase; you’re giving back to the little SMB’s and not the big, bad national, gluttonous corporations. You’re also obviously reassured that what you’re picking up is absolutely fresh, right from farm to stall.


It’d be an early morning start for Sydneysiders but if you make the most of the full morning market, you can refuel on some of the food vendors. These include Kalye (meat skewer specialties) or a slice from Pizza Napoli. Want to wow your partner? Roses and More sell fresh cut flowers at wholesale prices so consider that if you need to be back in someone’s good books. And for those little furry pets you bring along: give them Koly’s chemical free, freeze dried dog and cat treats. Who’s up for high end sugar? The Real Fruit Ice Cream stand should not be passed by without a quick purchase. Blended on site, you can sugar-load yourself up on the good stuff or try one of their super noisy slush drinks.

The market’s packed with a bundle of alternative stands including health & beauty, kitchenware, clothing, accessories and condiments. One stand we love is Mini Garden Creations that sells native plants and succulents. Bought the muchkins along for the ride? Then you need to check out Amanda’s Place where she sells everything from bibs and baby changing mats to mittens and door snakes (draught excluders). If that’s not satisfied the little ones, Mr. Arthur’s Puppets absolutely will do the trick. It’s hosted by owner Kieran Arthur, a talented puppeteer who was featured on Australia’s Got Talent. Maybe you can schmooze him to host a puppet show the next time your rugrat(s) celebrate a birthday.


It’s 1.01pm and you’re wiped out from shopping, the car’s full to the brim so you’ll take a leisurely drive east back to Cremorne Point. Chill out on our guest-only balcony overlooking the Harbour and chomp away at your foodie purchases.  Those apricots won’t eat themselves! 

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