 | Author's Name: Heather Leaney Date: Fri 24 Nov 2023 |
Evolution of the Stirling Farmers Market
After several years of planning, the Stirling Farmers Market was launched on Sunday, 5 December, 2011 with twenty-three stalls, as a major Rotary Club of Karrinyup Community Service project. Some 1500 - 2000 people attended. It ran smoothly and was deemed a success but:
- we still needed to learn how to run and grow a farmers’ market
- we needed stalls to agree to come to our market
- we needed support from the City of Stirling
The profit for the the first full year was very pleasing. Over the years we have received lots of support from our club, other market organisers, and our stallholders. Gradually, we have built a strong bond with the City of Stirling.
Our market has also become a hub for families and friends in the community to meet up each Sunday.
Along the way we gained the support of the students from Churchlands SHS and other young leaders, who attended our many Rotary youth programs, along with other non-Rotarian helpers, who regularly turn up when we need them.
Over the first eleven years the market made a substantial profit, which continues to enable our Club to support the local and wider community.
Along the way there have been many issues to sort (e.g., COVID and now the temporary parking issue) but with the help of the stallholders, our members and helpers and the Council, we continue to adapt and grow.
Nowadays, the market attracts some 50 stalls each week and is nearing capacity. So far this year our profits are above budget and our Stirling Farmers Market is widely recognised as one of the best in Perth.
