It’s spring and the bare vines are just beginning to bud. Fresh green shoots are bursting from the old gnarled wood with promises of the greatness to come this summer. Down the gentle hill along Aldinga Road the waters of St Vincent Gulf neatly rule off the western horizon. To the south and east vibrant green hills rise to frame this beautiful part of the world in a golden haze of sea and vines.
Every Saturday morning parked cars line the streets but finding the market is easy. Just follow the stream of happy faces carrying their baskets ready to be filled with fresh produce into the centre of town.
On offer is a glorious and welcoming cacophony of books, herbs, native plants, bakeries, coffee shops, milk and dairy producers, honey and jams, flowers, cooking demo’s, probiotics, seafood, poultry, eggs, beef, seasonal fruit and veg, homemade French delights and so much more! As summer progresses the market promises to be full of seasonal local produce.
The heart of the market is packed with families enjoying breakfast and coffee as they gather for a cooking demo while local buskers of all ages lend a warming background sound. At this market the people who grew the produce on their land and laboured to create the original foods, arts, and crafts, are the people at the stalls. It’s an authenticity often lost in the heart of a city.
Le Mistral, the Alma Hotel, I am Tall Poppy, and The Green Room organic café, all nearby, exude the cheerful collective vibe that envelops this beautiful small town.
It’s easy to see that membership is at the heart of the laidback community feel. Folk wear their WFM members cards with pride and get members prices on most things at the market. Every stall I stopped at had regulars chatting away. Stallholders and members know each other by name and are sharing stories and jokes. Dogs are welcome! There’s always people wandering around with their canine friends on leashes.
What should I buy? Should I go to the ATM nearby? ! I should buy some treats to bring home for the family. Real food from real people is always a treat and the Willunga Farmers Market is a treat that locals are lucky to experience every week.
If you’re looking for authentic seasonal and fresh South Australian whole foods you need to visit Willunga Farmers Market.
Originally published as ‘Discovering Willunga Markets’ – Fleurieu Forager Magazine – Summer 2017
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