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17 April - 23 April 2026 ] Kiama Minnamurra Kiama Downs Jamberoo Gerringong Gerroa
Fuel pinch hits farmers market Olivia Funell
K
iama’s farmers market is bustling with people and overflowing with fresh produce, artisanal goods and food trucks. Looking around, there is no evidence of the ongoing fuel crisis. However, some local vendors are already struggling. Recently, Market Manager, Tricia Ashelford, has noticed a drop off in spending on what she refers to as “discretionary items”. “Obviously, the fuel situation is
hitting everyone in the back pocket. Yes, and people’s discretionary spend [sic] is under review,” she says. In addition to patrons tightening their purse strings, local farmers have ongoing concerns about getting the fertiliser they need in the lead up to peak seeding season and the diesel they need to transport their produce. Ashelford shares the concerns of local farmers. “If we can’t get food from those farmers, then you know we’re in
strife, and it is going to affect that whole…supply chain and make it tricky with logistics,” she explains. “We’ve had situations where there’s been no eggs in the supermarket here, and our egg producer can’t bring enough eggs.” Ashelford is trying to do what she can to take some of the strain off local vendors. During quiet periods, she is looking at various options such as providing discounts or not charging vendors on their quiet days. “Because we are a non-for-profit
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market, we’ve got the ability to try and, you know, support our storeholders if they’ve had a quiet day,” she says. Her aim is to give the opportunity for those vendors who may be struggling to redirect their money towards a tank of fuel. She feels that whilst they aren’t actively asking for discounts, it’s her duty to support her community and she acknowledges the Kiama Farmer’s Market is only as good as its storeholders.
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