The Pappinbarra Community Markets are the perfect weekend activity. Held on the first Sunday of every month from 9am to 12pm (1pm in the warmer months), they roll around just often enough. Hop in the car (or on your motorbike) and take in the beautiful scenery on the route to Pappinbarra. The drive is well worth it, and you’ll be rewarded with a delightful day out.

The market is also known as the Grown and Gathered Market. Regular items for sale at the markets include home-grown fresh fruit and vegetables, seedlings, plants and flowers. There are also handmade chocolates, pre-loved items and arts and crafts… the list goes on! You can even pick up lovely handmade nesting boxes to encourage local wildlife to your property.

After some shopping, sit back and take in the relaxed country vibe of the community market. Grab a coffee and a bite to eat, enjoy the live music and let the kids entertain themselves in the nearby play area.

 

Pappinbarra Community Market

 

 

Who’s at the Grown and Gathered market?

It truly is a case of ‘there’s something for everyone’ at this market. While we were there, we took a leisurely stroll around and had a chat with all the stall-holders. Their stories are fascinating and they come to the market from all walks of life. But one thing in common is their commitment to a gentler existence, that has less of an impact on the environment. Half of the fun in visiting is having a chat and hearing all about what they’re selling and why.  Here’s the run-down on a few of the stalls you’ll find at Pappinbarra’s Grown and Gathered market.

Whitevalley Suburban Farm

Sunday 2nd September was the first time at the community markets for the Whitevalley Suburban Farm stall. Despite this, they looked very well established. The owners have the aim of being fully self-sufficient. All of their produce and plants coming from the three acres that they live on. They have an interesting range of plants and seedlings for sale, and they are more than happy to answer any questions that you may have. You’ll be on your way with all the knowledge you need on how to plant and take care of your new treasures.

For more information, visit www.facebook.com/whitevalleyfarm 

Whitevalley suburban farm

 

Kanooka Creek Art

With a background in fine arts, sculpture and screen printing (her favourite being an alternative process called Cyanotype), Charlie conducts local art workshops at her Kanooka Creek property. She also conducts art workshops in Wauchope and Port Macquarie. With the objective of sharing her love of art, Charlie sells her own art at the market. She also hopes to encourage people to move to the Pappinbarra area. One of the most fun things about her stall is the face painting for children. It’s a big hit with the kids every month.

For more information, visit www.facebook.com/kanookacreekart

Kanooka Creek Art

 

Gourmet Taste Sensations

Louise Rakowski began selling her products at the Grown and Gathered community markets shortly after its inception several years ago. The Gourmet Taste Sensations stall has a great range of items for sale. They include ceramic herb and spice grinders, dukkah in glass jars and locally made Baba Lila handmade chocolates. If you love making tasty meals, or if you’re just in the mood for a snack, this stall is the one for you. Louise is on hand to give you the lowdown on how to use all the spices, with lots of recipe ideas. They also have perfect gift ideas for the foodies in your life.

For more information, visit www.gourmettastesensations.com.au

Gourmet Taste Sensations

 

The Shirt Lady

Carol McNeil (also known as The Shirt Lady) sells handmade dresses and accessories for little girls at her stall. Whether you’re buying for your own child or looking for a special gift, this is the stall. You will find a bright and beautiful outfit that’s sure to please. Her bright prints and styles have a bit of a retro vibe, which makes a great change from all the mass-produced clothing that fills the shops these days. Also wonderful is the level of skill and love put into each piece of clothing she sells. Sizes range from tiny-tots to pre-teens.

For more information, contact Carol McNeil on 0412 835 552

the shirt lady

 

Supporting Fair Trade

Items sold at this stall support Fair Trade and are ethically produced. You can find almost anything at this market, from handcrafted soapstone figurine through to baskets made from telephone wire. There are recycled glass items and jewellery made from Ecuadorian Ivory Palm. You’re sure to find a meaningful gift for someone, and perhaps a new conversation piece for your own home. You can also purchase the liquid gold of garden fertiliser “Compost Worm Wee” to boost growth in your garden. Another interesting item is the pure beeswax infused cloths for food storage. These are a great, eco-friendly alternative to plastic. Brilliant!

fair trade items

 

Habitat Hollows Wildlife Boxes

Trevor is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to the conservation of native birds and animals, and encourages residents to install nesting boxes to support their local wildlife. He assists with this cause by constructing and selling nesting boxes specifically designed for a particular species of animal or bird, all of which are readily available to purchase at his stall. All boxes are labelled and are built using the required dimensions for each species, so you’re sure to find one to suit the critters in your area. Installing a nesting box protects native animals from predatory non-native species. It tries to address dwindling native populations by giving them a leg-up to breed and thrive, and goes a small way toward re-establishing the balance of nature.

For more information, contact Trevor Smith on 02 6585 6785

habitat hollows wildlife boxes

 

Oxhill Organics

Oxhill Organics is a certified organic farm located in Wauchope. The family has been on their land on the mid-north coast for the last four generations. They are dedicated to sustainability as well as to the production of food that is as dense in nutrients as it possibly can be.  At the Grown and Gathered market, they sell organic eggs laid by chickens that roam free on their property. They have been producing their eggs since 2011 and have grown a great reputation for their consistent quality and delicious taste! Chatting with them for a few minutes showed that they truly care for their animals and are passionate about being 100% organic.

For more information, visit http://oxhillorganics.com.au/

 

oxhill organics

 

Have a day out at Pappinbarra

The monthly market is held at Hollisdale Hall on Pappinbarra Road, Pappinbarra. For more information, visit http://grownandgatheredmarket.com/ or phone 0418 220 138. And after you’ve had a great day out, come back to Port and tell us all about it! We’d love to love to hear about your day while we serve you dinner at Hastings Coffee Co. or pour you a drink at Jimmy’s Bar and Lounge.

 

Relaxing at the Grown and Gathered Market

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