Rather market stall owners of The Secret Weekly Farmers Market want to keep things home-made and grown for our dinner plates. 

Zoe Laing of Bottled Culture, said the interest in their fermented product and drink range has actually seen them turn down commercial deals. 

“We make kombucha, and were approached to bottle it commercially,” Zoe explained.

“But we don’t want to lose the integrity of our product and turned it down.” 

Zoe has not approached anyone to stock their product, rather businesses and restaurants approach them.

She said, there has been suggestions the couple pursue Sydney or Newcastle markets.

“But we don’t need to – the minute we scale up we lose the home-made nature of our product.” 

Melanie and Dan Barry have seen similar success, with businesses approaching them to stock their products.

Dan said people are drawn to the ‘real taste’ of their sauce range. 

“It’s a world apart from other sauce companies out there. We grow everything ourselves,” he said. 

Dave Pitkin and Jenna Reilly of Lake Innes Lettuce and Herbs do a ripping trade with their unique range of micro-herbs. The miniature herbs pack a punch of flavour, with up to 40 times more nutritional value than your regular varieties. Dave said these are hugely popular with chefs, who like the colours the herbs also add to dishes. He transports up to 40 trays a week to the Manning for this purpose. 

Last week the market was visited by The Bellingen Smokehouse. Business owner Mat Bolton said their range of smoked salmon and trout has been picking up a lot of traction in Port Macquarie restaurants. Based on the response at his first Taree farmers markets – there’s potential he might become a regular visitor. 

Rosie Smith of The Secret Weekly Farmers Market said as the weather gets warmer, the weekly Thursday markets may change to night markets. 

Produce from The Secret Weekly Farmers Market will be the on the menu at Taree Show produce dinner ‘Showcase’ next Friday October 7 at 6.30pm at Taree Showgrounds. Tickets are $30, includes live music. For tickets call Laura on 0447 064 660.