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From the Australian Farmers Markets Association website
http://www.farmersmarkets.org.au/about.jsp



What is a Farmers' Market?

'A Farmers' Market is a predominantly fresh food market that operates regularly within a community, at a focal public location that provides a suitable environment for farmers and food producers to sell farm-origin and associated value-added processed food products directly to customers.'

MISSION

Farmers' Markets operate with multiple beneficial aims.

The four primary aims are:

1. To preserve farmland and sustainable agriculture.

2. To support and stimulate the profitable trading, viability and business growth of independent primary producers, hobby farmers, community and home gardeners, and associated produce value-adders.

3. To provide customers with regular supplies of fresh food and access to improved nutrition.

4. To contribute to the economic, social and health capital of the host community.

COMMUNITY VALUES

Farmers' Markets are an integral part of the host community and aim to provide various economic, social and health benefits including:

• Support of sustainable agricultural practices

• Food and nutrition education

• Promotion of fresh produce consumption

• Revitalisation of town and public space

• Regeneration of community spirit

• Rural/ urban linkages

• Facilitation of community-based food security programs

• Recycling of green waste and appropriate packaging