Go local and save

As fuel prices surge to record highs, many locals are adapting by shopping closer to home, say local experts.

This behaviour shift is not only lowering commuting costs and food miles, but returning money to the local economy.

The Barossa Farmers Market and Mount Pleasant Farmers Market are great options for fresh, seasonal products sourced straight from local farmers, bakers, makers and producers.

Barossa Market Manager Scott Wood says it’s a misconception that market prices are much more expensive, and says shopping locally is a more sustainable option that reduces food miles.

“When you buy something from market, it’s either grown or sourced within Barossa, or SA or Australia. We’re really strong on local sourcing, starting with the Barossa. A good example is Swagman Farms lamb – grown at Flaxman Valley, processed at Lobethal and then direct to the Markets,” says Scott.

There’s also plenty of familiar faces and friendly conversations at the markets that create a strong sense of community.

Members at Barossa Farmers Market receive a 10 per cent discount on purchases from around 30 local stalls, and exclusive access to a great new resource – a library of kitchen appliances, cookware, canning and preserving kits available for members to borrow free of charge.

Scott says: “For those people who don’t have the equipment, it’s a great way to take advantage of cost-effective seasonal produce, to then cook, preserve, freeze and store, saving you money over time.

“As far as I’m aware, we’re only the second kitchen library operating in Australia, and when you become a member of the Market, you have access to borrow items. Our most popular items are the dehydrator, slow cookers and the Fowlers Vacola preserving kit.”

Barossa community groups are also big winners through making and selling bacon and egg rolls at the Market’s popular breakfast bar.

“Community groups have raised more than $130,000 in two years, which has gone right back into the community, so it’s a really important piece of the market,” Scott says.

To go local, visit barossafarmersmarket.com or mtpleasantfarmersmarket.com.au