Always on the lookout to promote the region and her outlet Carousel based at The Mill in Bowral, Jessian Polk is the driving force behind a mid-week market that serves up everything from fresh produce to delicious treats and wine.
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Jess said she struggled to get out and buy fresh produce or pick up a gift while being behind the counter at her clothing shop in The Mill.
"I am here first thing in the morning and last thing at night and hardly ever get a chance to get to any of the weekend markets that are on in all the towns and villages," Jess Said.
"I was inspired by dear friend Damon Gameau and his film 204O to make some of those micro changes and create a place in our own space. It's a move to make a positive change in our own environments."
The Mill Farmers market is a weekly farmers market held at The Mill Bowral every Wednesday afternoon and until daylight fails entirely is still rocking at 8pm at night.
Not only are the stallholders showcasing local produce and products that are on hand every day from our farmers, there are also a host of interesting producers, makers and creators that offer far more than your average marke.
"I found we have plenty of monthly markets here in the Highlands but not a weekly venue to shop ultra fresh product, meet the farmers and see our talented restauranteurs in public."
"We have a vision here at the Mill venue to utilise this space for local produce food and wine, families, business and education."
Some of the most amazing events at this mid-week market are still being talked about around town.
"In October of 2019 The Mill and Wildest held a "ReGeneration" weekend where we had workshops hosted by Charlie Arnott, Andy Lemann, Damon Gameau and a variety of farm fresh stall holders, tiny home builders and game-changers. We all got together to discuss how we can make some positive change for climate and support each other in business, food production, tourism and how to continue to showcase our amazing region, Jess said.
"We had over 260 local businesses and families see the film and engage in workshops that weekend. This was not only an incredibly informative weekend but it was also the inspiration for creating The Mill Farmers market."
There are great plans ahead for more of the same in the next year as this mid-week market becomes a fabulous option for busy families who can come down for a Wednesday bite to eat from one of the stallholders, taste some wine, do some shopping and generally collaborate with the community.
"A weekly market brings the local community together in this multi -purpose venue to shop fresh local produce and share concepts each Wednesday afternoon and into the evening on a weekly basis rather than purchasing at big supermarkets and only having weekend activities."
Keep an eye out on their Instagram and Facebook pages for upcoming events and also additional stallholders as the Wednesday markets at The Mill become the norm. #themillfarmersmarket.