Celebrating Fred Varacalli: 80 Years Young and a True Sunraysia Community Treasure

This year, we are delighted to celebrate a very special milestone—Fred Varacalli turning 80 years young.

For many many years, Fred has been a familiar and much-loved face at the Sunraysia Farmers and Makers Market, where his fresh fruit and vegetables, and friendly smile have become part of the market experience. While customers have always come for the quality produce, they have stayed because of the warmth and kindness Fred brings to every market day.

Fred represents everything our market stands for: supporting local growers, building community connections, and sharing the fruits of hard work with others. His dedication as a fruit and vegetable provider has inspired generations of shoppers to appreciate fresh, locally grown produce and the people who work tirelessly to bring it to our tables.

Rain, shine, hot summer mornings, or crisp winter days, Fred has always shown up with pride, offering not only exceptional vegetables but also stories, laughter, and a welcoming presence that makes everyone feel welcome. His commitment has helped shape the welcoming atmosphere that makes the Sunraysia Farmers and Makers Market such a special place.

Reaching 80 is an incredible achievement, and Fred continues to demonstrate that age is simply a number. His passion, energy, and love for the local community remain as strong as ever.

On behalf of everyone at the Sunraysia Farmers and Makers Market, we extend our heartfelt congratulations and sincere thanks to Fred for his years of dedication, friendship, and service. Your contribution has enriched our market and our community in countless ways.

Happy 80th Birthday, Fred!

Here’s to celebrating a remarkable life, a remarkable grower, and a remarkable gentleman. We wish you good health, happiness, and many more wonderful years doing what you love.

Thank you, Fred. You are truly one of the cornerstones of our market family.

Loving our new look by Rhian McLeod

Our new logo has been freshly splashed across the market and we couldn’t be happier! We truly can’t express how perfectly this beautiful design, created by the incredibly talented Rhian McLeod, captures everything we are about.

From the gum leaves and the laughing kookaburra to the little nods to our market spoils — fresh macaroons, freshly brewed coffee, wood-baked bread, the freshest produce and our amazing makers — it reflects the heart of our creative community.

Our breakfast stall was incredibly popular this weekend… and it’s easy to see why! A full farmers breakfast for just $17 was the perfect way to warm up on a winter’s morning. Our new tablecloths looked a treat, and our wonderful volunteer crew were thrilled with their fresh new aprons.

We are so proud of this new chapter and can’t wait to share it with you all at the next market!

Introducing our beautiful new look

We’re so excited to officially unveil the new logo for the Sunraysia Farmer’s and Maker’s Market — a fresh new look that truly reflects who we are as a community market.

Designed by the incredibly talented local artist Rhian McLeod, our new logo captures the heart and spirit of our market — from our local growers and passionate makers to the unique natural beauty of our riverside setting here in Sunraysia.

Rhian’s thoughtful design beautifully brings together fresh local produce, handmade and homegrown goods, our unique riverside location, the iconic laughing kookaburras that we often hear, local creativity, and community connection.

This logo is more than just a new image — it represents the people, stories, and atmosphere that make the Sunraysia Farmer’s and Maker’s Market what it is.

We’re incredibly grateful to Rhian McLeod for sharing her creativity and talent with us and helping bring this vision to life.

Keep an eye out for our new branding across social media, signage, and future market events — and thank you for continuing to support the amazing local farmers, makers, artists, and small businesses that make our market thrive.

Autumn News

Autumn has arrived in Sunraysia, bringing with it a rich tapestry of colour, flavour, and community spirit at our beloved Farmers and Makers Market. As the days grow milder and the light softens, the stalls are brimming with some of the season’s finest produce—fresh, vibrant, and grown with care.

This is the season to savour the unique sweetness of locally grown persimmons and the delightful crunch of jujubes, both making a welcome appearance at the market. Alongside them, you’ll find an abundance of hearty vegetables perfect for autumn cooking—think crisp broccoli, glossy capsicums, and beautifully ripe eggplants ready to be turned into warming dishes.

Citrus fruits are beginning to shine, bringing bursts of brightness to your kitchen with their zesty aroma and tangy flavour. Peppers and grapes round out the harvest, offering both versatility and freshness, whether you’re preparing wholesome meals or simply enjoying them as they are.

Beyond the produce, our talented makers and creators are showcasing a beautiful collection of handcrafted goods. With Mother’s Day just around the corner, it’s the perfect place to find a thoughtful, locally made gift—from artisan homewares and handmade crafts to unique pieces that bring warmth and personality into any home. Whether you’re spoiling Mum or treating yourself, there’s no shortage of gorgeous finds and home delights to explore.

More than just a market, it’s a place where growers, artisans, and the community come together—where stories are shared, and connections are made.

We invite you to embrace the season, support local, and experience the very best of Sunraysia this autumn. Whether you’re stocking up on your weekly essentials or enjoying a leisurely stroll through the stalls, there’s something special waiting for you at the market.

See you there.

Mother’s Day Celebration

This Mother’s Day experience something truly special at the Sunraysia Farmers & Makers Market. Set in the heart of the region, it’s a celebration of everything local, handcrafted, and made with care.

Start the morning with a delicious breakfast, from a hearty farmer’s breakfast to freshly cooked pancakes made by the Mildura Lion’s club using quality regional produce. Grab a barista-made coffee and take the time to relax and enjoy the atmosphere.

As you wander, you’ll be treated to live music while exploring a vibrant collection of stalls. Discover small-batch gourmet foods, handmade treats, and one-of-a-kind gifts created by talented local makers. Every stall has a story, and every purchase supports local growers, artisans, and families.

Whether you’re finding the perfect gift or simply spending time together, the market offers a warm, authentic experience that can’t be found anywhere else.

Make this Mother’s Day about connection, community, and celebrating the best of local.

Hello Autumn!

As we ease into the golden hues of autumn, the Sunraysia Farmers and Makers Market is bursting with seasonal goodness and local charm.

This time of year brings one of autumn’s sweetest highlights — fresh, locally grown persimmons are now coming into season. Whether you enjoy them crisp or beautifully soft and ripe, they’re a must-try on your next market visit.

You’ll also find an abundance of farm-fresh vegetables, perfect for creating hearty, warming soups to share with family and friends as the cooler weather settles in. Think rich pumpkins, leafy greens, and wholesome root vegetables straight from local growers.

If you’re in the mood for a treat, our talented bakers have you covered. Indulge in a delicious selection of homemade cakes, slices, and delicate macaroons — the perfect pairing for a relaxing cup of tea or freshly brewed coffee as you soak up the market atmosphere.

And of course, it wouldn’t be the market without our wonderful makers. Browse a range of unique, handcrafted items — ideal for thoughtful gifts or a special little something just for you.

Come along, embrace the season, and support the incredible local farmers and artisans who make our market so special.

Celebrating Easter!

Join us for a vibrant Easter Market filled with the very best our region has to offer. With over 100 stalls, you’ll discover plenty of fresh, locally grown produce alongside beautiful, unique handmade crafts—perfect for gifts or a special treat for yourself.

Indulge in delicious local flavours, including fresh oysters from Foreshore Oysters—perfect for a true market treat.

Start your morning right with our famous Farmers Breakfast, offering incredible value and delicious flavours to fuel your day. Then sit back and enjoy live entertainment on stage featuring the Paul Trevaskis Band, bringing great music and atmosphere to the market.

There’s plenty to keep the kids entertained all morning with free activities including:
• Bilby hide and seek
• Face painting
• “Get Your Groove On” with Lyndsey Storer
• Biscuit decorating

And of course, don’t miss a special visit from the Easter Bunny, handing out free Easter eggs!

Bring the whole family and make it a morning to remember. We can’t wait to celebrate Easter with you!

Introducing – Riverland Calm Farming

Please welcome a new grower to the Sunraysia Farmers and Makers Market — Riverland Calm Farming, run by Mark and Liesel Joosten.

Mark and Liesel are bringing beautiful, farm fresh sweet potatoes in four delicious varieties. Grown with care and full of flavour, they’re perfect for roasting, baking, or adding to your favourite meals.

They will also have taro plants available, ready to pop straight into your garden if you’d like to try growing something a little different at home.

Make sure you stop by their stall, say hello, and support this wonderful new local grower while picking up some quality produce straight from the farm.