Photos by GH Nutrition.
Canberra’s oldest markets and one of the region’s favourite shopping institutions, Fyshwick Fresh Food Markets has long been synonymous with fresh produce. Locals and visitors alike have been flocking to buy their weekly groceries or sample that extra-special gastronomic delight since 1965 when it opened as Canberra’s first farmer’s market. Since then, it has grown to attract an estimated one million visitors a year to its famed range of over 25 speciality stores.
The next stage in the development of the historic Fyshwick Markets has seen it expand beyond the sale of fresh produce. Joining the ranks of the beloved and well-frequented fruit shops, butchers, fishmongers, delicatessens, bakeries and cafes, is 40 new specialist traders.
The recently opened Niche Markets, marks the next chapter at the Fyshwick Markets, with many small local retailers and artisan food providores opening in the new warehouse-inspired space. Co-owner of the markets, Alan Irvine, says that “the vision for the Niche Markets is to create a new, vibrant shopping hub that offers speciality products.”
Bringing an entirely new wing of shopping opportunities, the Niche Markets add a new dimension to the markets experience and provides even more reasons for people to come to Fyshwick. Not only can you now do your grocery shop, but you can also pick up that special birthday gift or even get your hair-cut. With everything from fashion and jewellery to homewares, flowers, art, donuts and coffee is available.
One of the new traders, Dawn Hayter from The Canberra Regional Artisan Providore, said “We have been waiting for the Niche Markets to open all year since the sign went up last year. We heard about it from shopping weekly at the Fyshwick Fresh Food Markets and seeing the Laing and Simmons advertisement. The concept appealed to us because of the small size of the stores and the opportunity to bring a specialised bespoke store to a large food market.”
Sourcing and stocking Canberra Region artisan food products, the store is focused exclusively on the amazing products sourced locally from our city to the highlands, the coast, and our alpine region.
Dawn said, “We are amazed at the number of foodie products that this region has to offer. We aim to give every local artisan a chance to showcase their product and hope to attract interstate and international foodie visitors who are looking for the new artisan food being produced in Canberra.”
Danijela from Krofne Donuts saw the Niche Markets as a fantastic opportunity to expand and employ more people with special needs, like her son Anthony who has Down Syndrome. As a Social Enterprise providing meaningful employment for young adults with Down syndrome by making delicious, made-to-order, European style donuts, Danijela says “We don’t employ people to make donuts, we make donuts to employ people.”
Fyshwick Fresh Food Markets is open Thursday to Sunday at 12 Dalby Street, Fyshwick.
Loading ...
