The Local Table farmer’s market is a “fun place” to do the groceries

Nicole O’Brien, from The Butcher’s Nook in Kiama, is obsessed with many issues however people who high the record are household, buddies, group connection and showcasing the area’s produce.

So it was no shock that her newest enterprise – The Local Table – was an enormous success. The inaugural farmer’s market was held at Lake Illawarra’s Reddall Reserve on August 5 and, with crowds out in pressure, most of the stallholders bought out.

“It was a fantastic outcome for our first event,” says Nicole. “I’m really pleased and it’s only going to get bigger and better.”

Nicole, who additionally helped run the Homegrown Hub on the Kiama Show for the primary time this 12 months, loves nothing greater than showcasing the skills of native producers.

And she believes one of many many causes occasions like The Local Table and Homegrown Hub are profitable is that the group loves to attach straight with farmers, growers and makers and listen to them speak about their merchandise.

And with grocery store produce costs skyrocketing Nicole says an growing variety of buyers wish to reduce out large chain shops and purchase direct from farmers and makers.

“It’s the fun grocery store, the one you want to be in,” laughs Nicole.

“Avoiding supermarkets is not only about rising prices, it’s about people wanting to feel more connected. Markets are a place for people to gather and connect, while also gaining a better understanding of where things come and the process involved in growing or making.”

With a nationwide push in direction of sustainability and net-zero carbon emissions, home-grown produce and hand-made merchandise are in excessive demand, with customers eager to buy ethically whereas supporting small companies.

“People want to get away from buying things that have travelled long distances, they want more local produce, farmers markets allow them to do that,” Nicole explains.

“I love to demonstrate and show people our local vendors.

“As the owners of a butcher shop we’re buying from amazing South Coast and Southern Highlands producers.

“I’m very passionate about the produce we sell at the shop. It makes sense to share that with the community so they can create connections with the farmers who grow our food.”

The Local Table stallholders embody Jamberoo Jerky and Biltong Co and Jamberoo Valley Seedlings, which together with promoting seeds and vegetation, educates individuals on rising natives.

Largo Brae Farm, additionally at Jamberoo, sells domestically grown mushrooms, there are charcuterie boards, upcycled artwork and vogue and SUP classes on Lake Illawarra with Stand Up Paddle Shellharbour.

Charcuterie boards at The Local Table farmer’s market

“We want to work with the community, we want our children to feel connected to and involved in the community,” says Nicole.

“The Local Table does that. It feels like the right spot to land here, like we’ve come full circle.”

The Local Table is held each Tuesday at Reddall Reserve from 2pm to 5pm in winter, with plans to develop the market’s working hours in summer time.

Stand Up Paddle Shellharbour gives SUP classes