Farmers market legacy to benefit future generations

Following the decision to conclude market operations at the end of June, the market committee resolved that its remaining surplus funds should continue supporting the values that have defined the organisation since it was established in 2012.

The donation will strengthen the foundation’s Limestone Coast Environmental Resilience Sub Fund, which provides grants for projects to protect and enhance the region’s natural environment.

Mount Gambier Farmers Market secretary David Geddes said the committee wanted the market's legacy to continue benefiting future generations.

"For 14 years, the Mount Gambier Farmers Market connected local producers directly with consumers, supported regional businesses and provided a welcoming community meeting place every Saturday morning," Mr Geddes said.

"While it is sad to close this chapter, we are proud that the market's legacy will continue through Stand Like Stone Foundation. Supporting the Limestone Coast Environmental Resilience Sub Fund means our contribution will help foster innovation, education, environmental stewardship and sustainable food production – values that have underpinned the farmers market throughout its existence."

Stand Like Stone Foundation chief executive officer Jason Wallace welcomed the contribution and acknowledged the market's longstanding contribution to the region.

"The Mount Gambier Farmers Market has been far more than a place of commerce. It has strengthened community connections, supported local producers and encouraged people to value local food systems and sustainable practices," Mr Wallace said.

"This generous contribution will become a permanent investment in our region. The capital will be preserved and grown over time, while earnings from the fund will be distributed through grants that support environmental resilience projects for many years to come. It is a fitting legacy for an organisation that has contributed so much to the Limestone Coast."

Mr Wallace said the donation also demonstrated how community organisations could preserve their legacy and values for future generations.

"The farmers market committee's decision highlights how community organisations can create a lasting legacy by investing residual funds in causes aligned with their mission and values," he said.

"Rather than seeing years of community effort come to an end, organisations can create an enduring impact by investing residual funds in one of Stand Like Stone’s existing sub funds or establishing a named fund that reflects their mission and values for generations to come."

Since opening in 2012, the Mount Gambier Farmers Market showcased local producers, welcomed thousands of visitors and became an important Saturday morning gathering place for the community. Throughout its history, the market promoted fresh local produce, sustainable agriculture and strong connections between growers and consumers.

As the organisation concludes its operations, the committee expressed its sincere appreciation to the volunteers, committee members, stallholders and customers whose support made the market possible.

Mr Geddes said the donation ensured that while the market itself had closed, its vision of building a stronger, more sustainable Limestone Coast would continue through projects that benefit the region for generations to come.

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