Adelaide Showground Farmers Market is one of three finalists in the Rural Solutions SA Services to Industry category of the Premier’s Food Awards for 2008.

Finalists in the Rural Solutions SA Services to Industry Award are:

• Adelaide Showground Farmers Market
• SA Freight Council Inc
• Spencer Gulf and West coast Prawn Fishermen’s Association

Beginning in 2006 the Adelaide Showground Farmers Market each week offers a unique insight into SA’s food industry, and easy access to an extensive range of fresh and tasty local produce.

Owned and operated by the community, for the community it supports small family farms, agricultural diversity and consumer choice.

Caption: Project Manager Zannie Flanagan at the Adelaide Showground Farmers Market

The marketplace environment also helps to build stronger communities with improved social, economic and health outcomes.

It provides a unique business incubation service to new and diverse food businesses in SA by providing a marketing, promotional and cost effective business support umbrella  by exposing the businesses to over 3000 customers every week.

Project Manager Zannie Flanagan said this direct contact with customers allows these businesses to tell their story and build a loyal customer base, providing a very cost effective market research opportunity that is often outside small business capability.
 
“It also provides an affordable customer direct outlet for all produce, ie close to use by date, wind fall fruit or undersized fruit not acceptable to large retailers,” she said.

“Most importantly it provides a service that allows small food businesses to increase their cash flow on a weekly basis, so crucial for their future.”

An annual highlight for the food industry in South Australia this year’s finalists in all categories from the city, Adelaide Hills, Limestone Coast, Eyre Peninsula and Riverland have been recognised for outstanding achievement and excellence in categories ranging from new products to innovation, export, workforce and environmental sustainability.

The 11th Awards will culminate with a green themed gala dinner and presentation hosted by Premier Mike Rann on Friday, 14 November 14 at the new Goyder Pavilion at Adelaide Showground.

Rural Solutions SA General Manager, Business Development and Marketing Michy Kris said the food industry was about growth and Rural Solutions SA wanted to ensure South Australia retained its strong leadership in achieving the State Food objectives.

Further information contact Michy Kris. or 1300 364 322

Date of release 21 October 2008