By Matthew Payne
On Saturday 1 March, Ferntree Gully Village had its first ever Under the Fern Trees Market! The new market is a reiteration of the former Village Market which was run by Coonara House and funded by the Empowering Communities grant. Now located in the cosy Wyuna Street car park, it has even more of a Village atmosphere (if that is even possible).
The Knox Festival was running on the same day, so it was convenient to pop into the market, before catching the free shuttle to the Festival’s gate.
A nice mix of new and familiar store holders kept a bit of the old market and gave it a new feel. There was the remarkable Type-a-Poet who managed to stare into my soul and create a surprisingly accurate poem about me – without me even saying a word. Completely astounding.
There were a few options for food and drink, including an Indian barbeque which offered a choice of skewers of chicken, beef or lamb. I’m told it was very filling, and very tasty! There was also a huge collection of yummy baked goods including a wide variety of sourdoughs. I would like to shout out the sugarcane juice which was absolutely delicious.
The market had wonderful live music, like the last market, however this time we could sit on the grassy slope and watch it if we so chose, giving it a more relaxed vibe. The market is an important space in our village for us to catch up with friends – both old and new – and this is a fact that isn’t lost on our four-legged friends either. There were many happy dogs walking around (with their owners, of course), wagging their tails as they socialised with each other.
This new market was a massive success, and is a huge compliment to our Village. I am very thankful to Andreja and everyone else involved in making this happen. I am thrilled to see how it continues to evolve over the months and years ahead.
From Susan Laukens
What a success the inaugural Under the Fern Trees Market was on 2 March.
Ferntree Gully News was delighted to share a stall with Mountain District Learning Centre. A full complement of market stalls adorned the shady carpark with the backdrop of the much loved Dandenong Ranges.
Market Coordinator Andreja Trobec was excitedly mingling amongst the visitors enjoying the delightful atmosphere. What a selection from local pottery, pastry delights from Dröm Bakery, to the colourful array of mushrooms, all for sale and delight.
The market will operate on the first Saturday of every month and the newspaper team will attend. Please mark the date in your calendar. We know when locals support local initiatives we all benefit.
