21 years of fresh produce, community, and giving back

For 21 years, the Capital Region Farmers Market has been a Saturday morning ritual for Canberrans. 1,007 markets (and counting!) have been held, bringing together farmers, food lovers, and the community in a shared passion for fresh, local produce. Through heartbreaking bushfires, severe storms, and even a global pandemic, the Market has stood strong through it all.

But beyond the bustling stalls and the delicious produce, there’s a deeper story. One of resilience, generosity, and a community that comes together time and time again.

A Market with a purpose

The Capital Region Farmers Market isn’t just about good food and supporting local, it’s about giving back. Created and operated by the Rotary Club of Hall, the Market was built with a vision to support regional growers and producers while also funding vital community projects.

Over the years, more than $4 million has been raised through the Market, helping to fund Rotary-led initiatives both locally and overseas. These funds have supported health and education programs, disaster recovery efforts, and agricultural projects that empower communities. From backing vital services in Canberra to helping rebuild after natural disasters, every dollar spent at the Market has made a difference.

And when disaster has struck close to home, the Market has stood by its stallholders, providing over $120,000 in emergency relief to help them get back on their feet.

The faces behind the stalls

Behind every market stall is a story – one of passion, dedication, and tradition. Each of the almost 200 registered stallholders bring something unique to the Market, united by a love for fresh, quality produce.

Many of these growers travel for hours from across NSW and the ACT to bring their produce straight to Canberrans, sometimes picking fruit and vegetables just hours before selling them.

For these farmers and producers, the Market isn’t just a place to sell, it’s a place to connect. They pride themselves on getting to know their customers on a personal level, sharing their homemade recipes and growing tips, and taking pride in knowing that the food they produce is feeding families across Canberra.

A place for all

For many, a Saturday morning at the Market is more than just a grocery run, it’s a tradition. It’s the parents teaching their kids about where their food comes from. It’s friends catching up over a freshly-brewed coffee and a tasty pastry. It’s discovering a new seasonal fruit, chatting with the grower who picked it that very morning, and taking home a little piece of the region’s best produce.

As we celebrate 21 years, we’re reminded of what makes the Capital Region Farmers Market so special. It’s not just the food. It’s not just the funds raised. It’s the people. The farmers, the stallholders, the volunteers, and the customers, who truly make the Market what it is today.

So, here’s to the last 21 years of fresh produce, community spirit, and making a difference, and to the next 21 years to come.