Farmers market survey launched

THE Cardinia Ranges farmers market is growing but needs public help.
The market committee will be handing out surveys at this weekend’s market, asking residents what they would like to see added to the monthly event.
Shoppers who fill out the survey have the chance to win a $40 market food voucher.
Market coordinator Suzzanne Carter-Madej said it was important for the public to have their say in the market’s direction.
“We need to know why people come to the market, how they find out about the market and the activities they would like to support further,” she said.
“We want to establish what we’ve got that’s working and what else people want.”
The State Government recently recognised the market’s potential for expansion with a $20,000 grant from its Farmers Market program.
Ms Carter-Madej said the market would officially launch its calendar of events next month.
The program focuses on local produce for that season, beginning with a beast-eater plate cook up in September. It will feature a pork sausage-making demonstration and other meats from around Gippsland.
This Saturday residents can get started on spring planting with products available for making kitchen gardens.
The Cardinia Ranges Farmers market is held at the Pakenham Racecourse on the second Saturday of each month.